Resumes Writing Guide

Create a polished resume that stands out to recruiters with formatting tips, keyword strategies, and examples tailored to your career goals.

Resume Writing Do’s & Don’ts

Do

  • Align your resume with keywords from the job description for ATS (Applicant Tracking System) optimization
  • Use dynamic action verbs and quantifiable results to maximize impact
  • Tailor your resume for each application, maintaining multiple targeted versions
  • Use simple, professional formatting with clear section headings and consistent alignment
  • Submit in PDF format to protect layout consistency across devices
  • Name document yourname.pdf
  • Use present-tense action verbs for current roles and past-tense for previous roles

Don’t

  • Use non ATS-friendly resume templates
  • Include an Objective Statement
  • Use phrases like “References Available Upon Request”
  • List high school education unless highly relevant (e.g., specialized technical
    training)
  • Use personal email addresses that sound unprofessional
  • Have spelling errors
  • Use colored text
  • Use acronyms to abbreviate

Content and Formatting Tips

  • Proofread out loud to eliminate spelling/grammatical errors. Spell check does not catch all errors
  • List education and experiences in reverse chronological order (beginning with most recent)
  • Showcase quantifiable achievements in short phrases rather than generic skills.
  • Do not include personal demographic information
  • Make sure all information is honest and accurate and can be discussed with an employer
  • One page (front and back) is ideal, but two pages are acceptable for experienced professionals
  • Stick to professional fonts (Arial, Calibri and Times New Roman) between 10-12 pt, and keep margins ½ to 1 inch wide

Next Steps

Once you understand the key principles of strong resume writing, you can take advantage of the Careerflow.ai platform available to Post University students to simplify and accelerate the process.Careerflow.ai can help you build a base resume, enhance your content, tailor your resume for a specific job and track all applied positions.


Start creating your resume now: https://careerflow.post.edu/login

Explore the Complete Resume Guide

Access sample resumes and a personalized checklist to help you craft a standout application.

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