To make your resume easier to read and copy, print it on white or lightly coloured paper. Loud, garish colours may attract attention, but they risk creating an unprofessional impression.

Also, use a laser printer and keep the font size at 10 point or above. The reviewer shouldn’t have to struggle to read your words.

Design

Good resume writers use design elements strategically.

Boldface, large type, capital letters, centring, or horizontal lines can be used to make headings stand out on the page. Bullets or italics can draw attention to key accomplishments. One inch margins around the page and blank lines between sections will make all the information easier to see.

Any graphics you use should be consistent with your occupation’s standards. Graphics appropriate for one occupation might be inappropriate for another.

To give your resume a consistent flow, maintain the same style from beginning to end. Every section should have the same design elements. For example, if your education heading is bold and centered, every heading should be bold and centered.

In the same way, chose one typeface, such as Arial, Courier, or Times New Roman, and use it throughout.

When you have finished, hold your resume at arm’s length and examine it. Make sure the type is easy to read and that the material lays out evenly on the page. You may need to experiment with different styles before deciding which you like best.

Related posts:

1. Resume length – How long should your resume be?
2. Scannable resumes – how to write a scannable resume
3. Resume formats – Choosing the correct format for your resume