Crash Course in Resume Writing "Rules"

The first "rule" to keep in mind when writing your resume is that your document must be written entirely in first person (you're talking about yourself after all) with the pronouns removed. If you're not sure if what you've written is in proper resume speak, test it by adding the "I" in front of the phrase.

For example, your resume may say: Trains staff of 20 and administers budget of $20K. (incorrect)

To present this in first person, you would say: I train staff of 20 and administer budget of $20K. (correct)

Use the guide below once you've mastered this general rule to make sure you present your information correctly. Most of these errors won't be found by a computerized spell-check, so it's crucial that you carefully review your resume to ensure your document is free of errors.

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Facts & Figures

Do I use the K, M, and B symbols or write out thousand, million, and billion? Do I have to use "by" before the number?

Technically, any of these options are correct - however, make sure you are CONSISTENT. Pick one strategy and use it throughout your document. Don't go back and forth.

Degrees

When in doubt, verify the title of your degree with your college/university.

Hyphens

Basic rule of thumb: if the modifier ends in -ly, do not use a hyphen.

Dashes vs. Hyphens

Years of Experience

Remember, years' = years of, just as don't = do not.