Unhappy with your resume?

Q: I have been given feedback that my resume needs to be improved.  Can you share some tips?

A: I have not seen your resume, but let me share some general recommendations. 

1. Review details like fonts, inconsistent spacing and overall layout.  A resume with a consistent and legible font is easier to read.  Is spacing “off” or is it consistent throughout your resume?  The overall layout should convey professionalism.    

2. No typos allowed.  You are not allowed to have typos or spelling errors.  Have a few others review your resume to catch these mistakes.  Sometimes we don’t catch our own errors. 

3. Your contact info should be readily available at the top of your resume.  Your name, address, phone number and maybe a URL for your LinkedIn address.  Don’t make it tough for a recruiter to track you down! 

4.  In addition to some of your responsibilities, think about what you accomplished in past role.  An example: Hired 12 engineers at an average cost per hire of $6K.  Another example: Worked on CRM implementation saving the company $100,000.  Most recruiters like to see metrics on what you have achieved or what you have accomplished. 

5. Grammatical errors are unacceptable.  Know the difference between there, their and they’re and to, two and too. 

6. Too dense or too much information.  A resume should be, at most, two to three pages.  My resume is just two pages and includes lots of white space and I used font size 11.  Remember, a resume should contain selected highlights, not every task you have ever completed. Search online using the term “sample resume” and many sample resumes will be found.  It is sometimes helpful to review resume samples to think about new formats, helpful wording or how to make your resume more succinct. 

Lastly, when you have a final version ready, put it down.  Don’t share it.  Review it a day or so later with “fresh eyes” and confirm that it is the best version it can be.