Resume Writing: Rules and Rumors

It seems like there are endless "rules" floating around about the right and wrong way to write a professional resume. You probably remember receiving well-meaning advice like this at some point or other in your career:

"Always list your career history in chronological order."

"Make sure you print on cream or grey parchment paper instead of plain white so you'll get noticed in the pile of resumes."

"Don't make even the tiniest mistake or your resume will get thrown into the trash!"

What other resume writing rumors have you been exposed to over the course of your career? Do you feel they're justified, or do you think it is all a bunch of hype?

The fact is, each career opportunity is unique, as is each employer. Something that appeals to one hiring manager may actually be a turnoff to another. You can't know what those things might be until the day of your interview... so, there's no sense in worrying about them or in trying to please everyone.

From a career coaching perspective, think about this:

If we're always so consumed with doing the right thing according to others, then we're going to forget to do the things that feel right to us as individuals. But if we're being ourselves, thinking for ourselves and not stressing about process and procedure, that's when we're most likely to attract the attention of employers who want exactly what we have to offer.

So if you're feeling anxious about writing your resume, don't sweat it! Two things that will get you noticed "in the pile" are if you tackle your career effort with confidence, and approach things in your own style. And it's worth pointing out that "in your own style" does not mean unprofessional. It simply means having common sense about the things that any hiring manager would want to read on a resume, while also giving yourself the freedom to be who you are.

Here's a great tip for writing your resume. Put yourself directly into the employer's shoes. If you were running a business or managing a department, what types of qualities would you be interested in seeing in your future employees? Think about the position that needs to be filled. What skills and strengths might a supervisor equate with "the ideal candidate?" Do you possess those qualities? Perfect! Talk about that in your career resume and cover letter. Let them know exactly why you are the best person for the job.

Does it matter if you print your resume in black ink, as opposed to gray or blue? Does every graphic designer's resume need to look like a magazine ad, with graphics and Madison Avenue copy? Will it hurt your chances for employment if you order your resume by professional achievements and skills instead of chronologically?

The answer is no, no, and no. Yes, resumes typically follow a few standard recognizable formats, but you aren't locked into one way of creating yours. Be smart, and include what's expected... but when it comes to the little things, relax and use your best judgment for the particular job and field in question.

In short: don't believe all the resume hype!