Always
Never

When Developing Your Resume, ALWAYS:

• Be accurate and truthful.
  
  
• Use bulleted statements, where possible. Bullet points make it easier for the hiring manager to scan your resume.
  
  
• Begin sentences with action verbs instead of the personal pronoun "I." Avoid lofty and redundant language, puns and clever wordplays. Use professional jargon, acronyms and abbreviations sparingly.
  
  
• Customize your resume for each prospective employer to focus on your specific skills and qualifications that relate to the job opening.
  
  
• Describe significant contributions at your current and previous jobs and, if possible, how they impacted the bottom line. (Example: Generated annual average of 1,900 billable hours.)
  
  
• Steer clear of formatting gimmicks. Use a professional, easy-to-read typeface, white or ivory bond paper, and black ink.
  
  
• Proofread carefully! Use your computer's spellcheck function and ask others to proofread your resume.
  
  

When Developing Your Resume, NEVER:

• Misrepresent your work experience or education. One fabrication can be grounds for termination.
  
  
• Use exact dates. Months and years are sufficient.
  
  
• Detail every aspect of your career. If your resume fills more than two pages, you've probably included irrelevant information.
  
  
• Give reasons for termination or leaving a job.
  
  
• Include high school education if you're a college graduate.
  
  
• Include irrelevant personal information such as your height, weight, social activities or personal beliefs.
  
  
• List references or state, "References available on request." Hiring managers assume that you will provide these contacts when asked.
  
  
• Provide salary information. If an ad requests a salary range, include it in your cover letter. Otherwise, wait until the interview to discuss this issue.