SIU Carbondale College of Business Career Guide

ELECTRONIC AND SCANNABLE RESUMES In all likelihood, you will be submitting your resume electronically to online job search sites, or sending it to organizations that use scanners or computer programs to scan resumes looking for specific keywords. When doing this, compose your resume according to the following guidelines.

Tips for Electronic and Scannable Resumes Aesthetics are not important, but readability is. Make sure your electronic resume is easy to read by removing as much formatting as possible. ƒ ƒ Avoid graphics, shading, italics, underlining and boldface text; for emphasis, capitalize text instead ƒ ƒ Use one common font (such as Times New Roman) ƒ ƒ Left justify text ƒ ƒ Eliminate horizontal or vertical lines and incorporate white space between sections instead ƒ ƒ Remove bullet points and replace with dashes (-) or asterisks (*) Use key words Be sure to incorporate plenty of keywords in your text. You can typically locate keywords by carefully reviewing a job posting or job description. The more keywords you use, the more likely your resume will get noticed by an employer.

Use the appropriate file format Pay attention to the format the employer requests. For example, some employers prefer a PDF and others prefer an MS Word document or a plain text file. If the employer does not request a specific format play it safe, and send your electronic resume as a “Plain Text” or “Text Only” file in the body of your e-mail since attachments can carry viruses. E-mail yourself first Always e-mail your resume to yourself first as a test before sending it to an employer. Hardcopy of your resume If you are mailing a hardcopy of your electronic or scannable resume, be sure to print your resume on white or light-colored paper and do not use paper with a watermark.

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