There are as many opinions on the subject of résumés as there are job seekers! Some of the more popular opinions are centered on the use of objectives, summaries, profiles, title headings, keywords, reference statements, personal interests, salary history, dates, graphics, fonts, and of course, the length of the résumé.

Then there is the question of format. Should the style of a résumé be chronological, functional or a combination? One thing is certain - the résumé should sell a candidate's strengths and qualifications, and answer a hiring manager's question, "How can you solve my problem?" It should also have full contact information, be organized and provide specific information that a hiring manager needs to decide whether or not a candidate is well suited for a position. At the very least, it should list relevant experience and achievements.

Purpose of a Résumé

A résumé is a personal marketing document that communicates your career objective and value to a hiring company. A strong résumé is carefully planned and developed (not quickly typed up) in an appropriate format (style) designed to showcase your experience and accomplishments in direct relation to a specific position.

Basic Résumé Writing Tips - Formatting Rules

• Bold and enlarge your name at the top.
• Keep the sections lined up and consistent.
• Use an Arial, Times New Roman or similar font.
• Font size should not be smaller than 11pt or larger than 12pt, except for your Name and Headings.
• Do not include pronouns such as "I," company street addresses, salary or reasons for leaving.
• Two-page résumé: be sure to fill the second page at least halfway down the page.
• Place “Continued” at the bottom of page one, and your name and “Page 2” at the top of page two.
• Use graphics sparingly unless you are in a creative field. It is safe to use a border and shading.
• Leave out personal data, photos and unrelated hobbies, unless you are an actor/actress or model.
• If you spell out the state in your address, such as New York, spell out the states for your jobs.
• Proof, proof and proof again!

From the article "Creating a Better Résumé: by Ann Baehr, President of Best Résumés