Choosing the right resume template is crucial for a craftsman. A clean, professional layout is best, with a reverse-chronological order that highlights your experience. This format helps employers quickly see your skills and work history, making it easier for them to assess your qualifications.
Keep your resume to one page if you're early in your career. If you have extensive experience and a rich history of projects, a two-page resume might be appropriate. The key is to be concise and only include relevant information that showcases your craftsmanship.
For fonts, stick with professional and ATS-friendly options like Calibri or Arial, sized between 10-12pt for body text and 14-16pt for headers. Ensure there's plenty of white space; this will make your resume easier to read. Avoid overly decorative designs that might confuse applicant tracking systems (ATS) or distract from your skills.
Common mistakes to avoid include using complex templates with multiple columns or graphics, excessive colors, and non-standard fonts. These can hinder ATS from parsing your resume properly. Make sure to use clear section headings to guide the reader through your experience and skills.