Free Sample Resume

Choose a format that will best highlight your strengths, yet minimize any shortcomings in your candidacy.
Apply white space liberally-learn how to add line space between paragraphs using the Format, Paragraph, Spacing command in MS Word.
Limit the number of tab stops on the page-more than three will cause the résumé to look too busy. Create a [...]

1. Choose a format that will best highlight your strengths, yet minimize any shortcomings in your candidacy.
2. Apply white space liberally-learn how to add line space between paragraphs using the Format, Paragraph, Spacing command in MS Word.
3. Limit the number of tab stops on the page-more than three will cause the résumé to look too busy. Create a visual pattern – be consistent in your use of tab sets, fonts, and line spacing from section to section.
4. Use no more than two fonts on the page-one for your name and perhaps the category headings, and another for body text.
5. Use the same font and point size for every heading; use the same font and point size for all body text.
6. Use bullets that complement the body-text font-make sure the size of the bullet doesn’t overpower or detract from the text. Divide long paragraphs (more than six or seven lines) into two. Lead off each of the smaller paragraphs with a logical category title.
7. Avoid the “Leaning Tower of Pisa” effect of placing employment dates in the left margin surrounded by too much white space. Dates placed on the right margin allow you to shift body text toward the left and gain room for important content and keywords.
8. Balance the text between top and bottom margins so that there isn’t excessive white space at the bottom of the page.
9. Print the résumé, tack it on a wall, and step back five or six feet. Make sure it has some semblance of form and design.