Resume checklist
Use this free resume checklist to ensure you are putting your best foot forward. If you need help writing your resume, check out our AI resume builder and library of resume examples.
Contact information
Include your essential contact information so employers can easily reach you.
Professional summary
Provide a brief summary that highlights your key skills and experiences relevant to the job.
Work experience
Detail your work history and relevant professional experience.
Education
Detail your academic background and achievements.
Skills
Showcase your relevant technical and soft skills.
Optional information
Include additional relevant information and achievements.
Formatting
Ensure your resume is well-formatted, professional, and easy to read.
Content and tone
Ensure the content of your resume is clear, tailored, and professional.
Final checks
Ensure your resume is ready for submission.
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FAQs
Everything you need to know about our resume checklist. Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.
What is a resume checklist?
A resume checklist is a comprehensive list of items to review before finalizing your resume. It helps ensure that your resume is complete, free of errors, and follows best practices to make a strong impression on potential employers.
Why should I use a resume checklist?
Using a resume checklist ensures you cover all essential elements, avoid common mistakes, and optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS). It increases your chances of catching the attention of hiring managers.
How does the resume checklist improve my resume?
The checklist guides you through each section of your resume, prompting you to verify that all information is accurate, relevant, and presented professionally. It helps you align your resume with industry standards and the specific job requirements.
What items are included in the resume checklist?
The checklist covers contact information, professional summary, work experience, education, skills, optional sections (like projects or volunteer work), formatting, content language, and final checks such as proofreading and ensuring professionalism.
How long should my resume be according to the checklist?
The checklist recommends keeping your resume concise—typically one page for those with less experience, or up to two pages if you have extensive experience or advanced degrees. The key is to include relevant information without overwhelming the reader.
Should I include a professional summary if I'm a student or recent graduate?
If you're a student or recent graduate, including a professional summary or objective statement can be beneficial. It allows you to highlight your education, relevant skills, and career aspirations, especially if you have limited work experience.
Does the checklist apply to different industries or roles?
Yes, the resume checklist is versatile and applicable to various industries and roles. While the core components remain the same, you should tailor the content to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific job.
Is it important to avoid certain words or phrases according to the checklist?
Yes, the checklist advises avoiding overused buzzwords and clichés like "hard-working," "team player," or "detail-oriented." Instead, focus on specific achievements and use action verbs to demonstrate your impact.
Can the checklist help if I'm changing careers?
Absolutely! The checklist can help you emphasize transferable skills, relevant experiences, and tailor your resume to showcase how your background aligns with your new career path.
How should I format my resume according to the checklist?
The checklist suggests using a clean and professional format with consistent font sizes (11pt–12pt for body text), easy-to-read fonts like Arial or Calibri, proper margins (0.5 to 1 inch), and avoiding complex formatting or graphics that may hinder ATS readability.
Can I use first-person pronouns in my resume?
It's generally recommended to avoid first-person pronouns like "I" or "me" in your resume. Instead, write statements that begin with action verbs, keeping the focus on your accomplishments.
What tips should I remember when using the resume checklist?
Key tips include tailoring your resume to each job, keeping content concise and relevant, quantifying achievements with numbers where possible, proofreading carefully, and ensuring the overall presentation is professional and easy to read.
Is it necessary to include all sections mentioned in the checklist?
While the checklist provides a comprehensive overview, you should include sections that are most relevant to your experience and the job you're applying for. It's acceptable to omit sections that don't add value to your application.
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