Do’s

• Focus on accomplishments, skills, and results.
  
• State your summary clearly and concisely.
  
• Use short phrases, not long and complex sentences.
  
• Write in the active voice and avoid using “I,” “me,” “my,” or “we.”
  
• Use strong action verbs and words. (See Action Verbs)
  
• Use a visually appealing format; white space is important. Avoid cluttered, overcrowded appearance.
  
• Be consistent in all matters of style, punctuation, grammar, and format.
  
• Use bullets, underlining, bold face, capitalization, etc., to create visual interest.
  
• Edit, proofread; edit, proofread; edit, proofread, etc. Do it yourself and get others to help.
  
• Show verifiable accomplishments in terms of numbers, percentages, or dollars. Use facts and figures.
  
• Be absolutely accurate.
  
• Keep in mind the reader of your résumé; is it “skimmable,” readable, and interesting?
  
• Include an e-mail address - it makes communication faster.
  
• Use key words, “Microsoft Word” instead of “word processing.” This is beneficial for businesses that utilize scanning software.

Don’ts

• Include personal information such as; height, weight, eyes, hair color, health, etc.
  
• Include discriminatory information such as; race, religion, married, children, disabled, etc.
  
• Include any misrepresentations or any statements that cannot be proven.
  
• Use flowery language or self-congratulatory puffery.
  
• Use odd size or brightly colored paper.
  
• Attach photograph.
  
• Use fancy binders or folders.
  
• Mention salary information.
  
• Show gaps in employment history.
  
• Use months; instead, use years only.
  
• Use abbreviations, acronyms, or buzz-words where misunderstanding may result.
  
• Include anything not considered absolutely essential.
  
• Overcrowd the page; leave white space.