How to ace resume formatting

A resume is your calling card to the companies where you would like to get hired. Since it is often the first thing about you that prospective employers will see, it needs to market your employability in stellar ways that will outshine the competition. Here are the most critical factors in a resume and how to format them.

Heading

This is the first section at the top of the page that is either centered across the middle or arranged at the left margin. Your name comes first in bold letters in a font size that is one point larger than the rest of the resume. Below that should be a relevant credentialed title if you have one, such as a law degree. Your mailing address with street, city, state, and zip code come next. Then add your telephone number followed by your email address.

If you are a recent college graduate, use Education next. But if you have been employed most recently, begin with Employment.
Employment

List your current position with a job title, a brief summary of your job duties, the company and address, and how long you have been one of the employees there. Promotions or distinctions can also be mentioned with each position, although you may prefer to add a Special Awards section below.

Provide the same information for each job you have held in the past five to ten years. Sometimes the company will indicate the period of time for which they want to know about past employment. If there are gaps between some of the jobs you have held, explain what you did during those periods. For example, you might have traveled, volunteered, or taken training classes. Being honest about your job history is critical. You can indicate whether current or past supervisors may be contacted to discuss your job performance, attendance record, and other factors related to the position you are now seeking.

Example:

20015-Current
Medical Secretary, Good Samaritan Hospital, Denver, Colorado.
Coordinated documentation including medical transcription records for seven doctors and eleven nurses in the Physical Rehabilitation Unit.

You can adjust the spacing and layout of this information however you wish. There are several ways to create a professional-looking format. The main goal is to attract the attention of the people who are hiring new employees by organising your information in a clear, spacious style that is easy to read.

Education

List your most recent academic achievements, including a college degree or a high school diploma as well as any professional training you have taken. Again, organise this information by dates during which you earned these credentials as well as the degree or diploma earned along with the major course of study. Follow this with a Grade Point Average if it is above average. Indicate any special awards or achievements during this time like honorary memberships, student organisation leadership, or scholarships.

Special Training, Licensure, or Certification

Include extra credentials you have earned in your professional life, such as a computer training certification or a state license as a substitute teacher. Even if you are not applying for jobs that need these skills, they are impressive in showing your interest in ongoing professional development.

Languages, Hobbies, and/or Interests

Indicate any second languages you speak fluently along with any interesting hobbies, like skydiving.

References

List names and contact information of two or three professional references who can provide helpful background about your work history to interested employers.

Proofread for accuracy and make your resume look crisp and inviting to companies that are hiring.