It’s amazing what a well-written and nicely presented resume can do for your job search. Before you send yours out, follow this checklist to ensure you are sending out an excellent quality representation of yourself.
1. Grammar, spelling, punctuation
Use the grammar and spell check function, then print it out and read the document word for word. Spell checker doesn’t know that you meant “manager” when you actually typed “manger.”
2. Capitalization
Use a manual such as the Gregg Reference Manual if you do not know capitalization rules.
3. Punctuation
Check for proper use of commas and semicolons. Again, if you are unsure, refer to a grammar reference guide.
4. Run-on sentences
Make sure you do not have run-on sentences that are hard to read or understand.
5. Consistency
Be consistent with number formats (dates, money, etc.), pluralization, and abbreviations. For example, do not write one date as 8/2004 and another as 3/15/2004. Be uniform throughout.
6. Education section
If you have a degree, list only the year it was obtained. Writing ranges like “9/1998 to 1/2002” may confuse resume-scanning software and make it appear like you never graduated.
7. Ampersands
Avoid using ampersands (&) unless they are part of a well-known brand (e.g., AT&T) or standard industry terms (e.g., P&L).
8. Hyperlinks
Deactivate all email and web addresses in your resume. In MS Word, highlight the link, right-click, and select “Remove Hyperlink.”
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Want to improve your resume? Start by proofreading for grammar and punctuation, maintaining consistent formatting, and removing active hyperlinks. These small but essential editing tips can make a big difference in how professional and polished your resume appears to employers.