Creative Job Search: Resume Presentation

Quality Paper

Now that you have invested time in writing the perfect resume, what remains is to produce a high quality final product. Quality paper is a final touch that will leave a favorable impression with a prospective employer. It is appealing to the eye and prints better, maintaining a clear, sharp image. As for color, white is still considered the first choice. Off-white, cream, or gray is acceptable; avoid using colored paper. Paper size should be the standard letter size, 8-1/2" x 11". Here are other guidelines:

Paper Weight

• Quality paper should be between 16 and 25 lbs.
• 100% cotton fiber (rag content) is the best.

Producing

• When creating your original or master, it should be produced using a common word processing or desktop publishing program.
• Typing your resume on a standard typewriter should be avoided since its print is usually not high quality.
• Editing and modifying will also be difficult.
• If all you have is a standard typewriter, consider taking your final draft to someone for word processing.

Paper Texture

• Personal preference should be your guide.
• Examples include: linen, pebble finish and vellum.
• Avoid glossy or high shine finishes.

Reproducing

• When making copies for distribution laser printing is preferred.
• Due to the poor quality, never print your resume on a dot matrix printer.
• You may also choose to have a print shop print your resume.
• If you reproduce your resume on a photocopier, be sure that the copies are clear, clean and sharp.

Computer Resources

Computers have become an important job search tool for most job seekers. However, not everyone has access to this technology. There are many places where use of a computer costs very little or is free. For example:

Job Service Offices
Workforce Centers
Schools
Libraries Print Shops
Social Organizations
Community Agencies Religious Organizations
Friends and Family
Private Placement Agencies