Pick a clean template that highlights timelines and outcomes. Use a reverse-chronological layout so hiring teams see your recent wins fast. That layout reads well to humans and to ATS parsers.
Keep length tight. One page suits entry and mid-career bid managers. You can go to two pages only when you have long, relevant bid experience and quantified results.
Use simple fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt. Keep line spacing at 1.0–1.15 and margins around .5–1 inch to add white space.
Structure your content with clear headings: Contact, Profile, Core Skills, Bid Experience, Key Wins, Education, Certifications. Use bullet lists under each role to show actions and measurable outcomes. Start each bullet with a strong verb and include numbers where you can.
Avoid fancy visuals and multi-column layouts. They can break ATS parsing and distract reviewers. Stick to bold and italics for emphasis, not colors or graphics.
Watch these common mistakes: using complex templates with images or tables, inconsistent spacing, tiny fonts to squeeze content, unclear section titles, and long dense paragraphs. Each mistake makes it harder for reviewers to see your impact.
Always tailor your header and skills to the job posting. Swap generic phrases for specific bid methods, contract types, and win rates. That keeps your resume relevant and easy to scan.