Creative Job Search: General Resume Guidelines

Do's

Don'ts

Lead with your strongest statements
Emphasize your skills
Keep it brief (1 - 2 pages)
Use 8 1/2" x 11" paper
Correct all typographical, grammatical and spelling errors
Include employment related accomplishments
Target your qualifications
Clearly communicate your purpose and value to employers
Maintain eye appealing visual appearance
Use the best format to showcase your skills
Appear neat, well organized and professional
Be creative
Always include a cover letter when mailing your resume
Use quantifiable measures, values, percentages, measurable outcomes, to enhance your qualifications

Do not use abbreviations (exceptions include middle initial and directions such as N for North)
Do not use "I" to refer to yourself
Avoid any mention of salary expectations or wage history
Do not print on a Dot Matrix printer
Do not use fancy typeset, binders or exotic paper
Do not send a photograph of yourself
Avoid statements that you cannot document
Do not include personal information (age, height, weight or family status)
Do not change the tense of verbs or use the passive voice
It is not necessary to use the title "resume"
Do not include references on the resume
Do not include hobbies or social interests unless they contribute to your objective
Do not staple or fold your resume

Reprinted with the permission of the Idaho Department of Labor.

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