Many employers use computerized scanning systems to review
resumes. Since you cannot be sure whether your target company
uses such a method, you may want to send two resumes-your standard
resume and one marked "scannable" at the top. Tips on
creating a scannable resume:
- Print from a laser printer or high quality inkjet printer.
- Your name, address and phone number should appear on separate
lines at the top of your resume.
- Avoid using fancy typefaces, italics, underlining and vertical
and horizontal lines.
- Avoid boxes, shading, hollow bullets or anything
decorative.
- Use specific numerical dates, not words, when listing dates of
employment.
- Avoid abbreviations and acronyms; it is better to spell them
out.
- Stick to standard resume headings in a chronological
format.
- Use 8 ½ x 11 white paper, printed on one side and use 10-12
point font size.
- Use adequate margins and spacing, do not fold or staple your
resume.
- Place the most relevant information toward the top of the
resume.
- State a specific objective-it will be the first key word on the
page.
- Submit a cover letter including key words from the job listing
if possible.
- Make liberal use of key words that are commonly associated with
the job, i.e. Financial Analyst, keywords: budgeting, forecasting,
cash flow, etc.
- Beneath the objective write a summary, profile or summary of
qualifications to highlight your skills and accomplishments.