From Chaos to Clarity - Tips for a readable resume
Want to hear about the worst resume we’ve ever seen?
Picture this…it was super long, crammed with pictures and graphics, and despite all the effort, you couldn’t make heads or tails of it.
The second worst? It was like trying to read a novel crammed into a pamphlet— unreadable chaos.
But why does readability matter?
No matter how amazing your resume's content is, if it’s a nightmare to read, it’s going straight to the “no” pile. The goal is for a hiring manager to glance at your resume and instantly think, “Yep, this person can do the job.” With so many resumes to sift through, you don’t have long to catch their eye. Here’s how to make sure your resume passes the readability test:
The Look:
Pick a Simple Resume Template: You don’t need to channel your inner graphic designer. Websites like CANVA offer plenty of sleek and free templates that look professional without the fuss.
Consistency is Key: Use the same spacing, fonts, and font sizes throughout. This will make your resume easy on the eyes and a breeze to read.
Optimal Length: Aim for two pages max, but if you need a bit more room, it’s better to stretch to three than to squish everything into two. A well-spaced, easy-to-read resume beats a cluttered mess any day.
Remove Clutter: Graphics, skill graphs, and icons might seem cool, but if they don’t add value, ditch them. Focus on presenting the essential info only.
The Details:
Clearly State Employment Details: List each company’s name along with the month and year of your employment.
Chronological Order: Start with your most recent roles and work backwards. Show us how your career has progressed.
Clear Job Titles: Use industry-standard titles. A 'Marketing Manager' is much clearer than 'Marketing Rockstar.'
Get to the Point: Skip the filler words. Highlight your key skills and achievements concisely.
Highlight Achievements: Instead of listing every task, give a brief overview of your role and focus on specific achievements with bullet points.
Creating a readable resume is just as crucial as including the right information. Choose a simple template, keep things consistent, and make your content concise and achievement-focused. Happy job hunting!