Formatting Your Resume

There are endless questions when related to writing and formatting your resume. Many times so much focus is put on content that obvious things are overlooked. Here are a few things to consider; address, phone and e-mail addresses should be conspicuously located on your resume.

Candidates are more reluctant than ever to provide contact information, but understand that the contact information is an important component in formatting your resume. I know that most of us don’t want to be bothered during our personal time, but if you don’t want to be contacted why post or submit your resume at all? If you are concerned about identity theft, eliminate your street address, but be sure to include city, state and zip code. You can also set up a special e-mail address for your job search. Never put your social security number on your resume!

If you are required to provide personal information ask your recruiter or point-of-contact if their company has a “Facility Security Officer” (FSO). Don’t confuse this position with a “Security Guard”. This is a person that is specifically responsible for safeguarding sensitive information related to the company’s employees. If there is no FSO, ask what safeguards they use to protect your information.

Ensure the names used on the resume and the application are consistent. If your name is William, yet your friends call you Billy Jack, don’t use Billy Jack on your application then move to William on your resume. Pick one and stick with it. Using formal names is generally a safe way to go.

Weak contact information will hurt your chances for a call back at a later date. Make sure to include your address on your resume. Some companies keep records for years and databases can be populated with similar names. Your address might be the thing that distinguishes you in the future. The same holds true for phone numbers, include them. Most employers are not going to go to the trouble of tracking you down.

Note: If you choose to use a special e-mail for your job search make sure that you check it on a regular basis or have it forwarded to your regular e-mail. Long term it is a good idea to keep the address as you never know when a great opportunity might come available. If the e-mail is returned you most likely won’t be notified of the opportunity.