When you’re crafting a resume for an Equity Research Associate position, you'll want to stick to a clean and professional layout. A reverse-chronological format usually works best because it highlights your most recent experiences first, making it easy for recruiters to see your career trajectory. Simple layouts improve readability and help your resume get through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) without issues.
Aim for a one-page resume, especially if you're early in your career. If you’ve got a wealth of experience, consider a two-page layout but focus on being concise. Every word should count, so prioritize your most relevant accomplishments and skills.
For font choices, go with professional and ATS-friendly options like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia. Keep your font size between 10-12pt for the body and 14-16pt for headers. Make sure to use consistent spacing and plenty of white space to enhance readability. Overly complex designs may confuse both ATS and human readers, so stick to simple formatting.
Common mistakes include using bright colors or non-standard fonts, which can distract from your content. Avoid templates with columns or graphics that can confuse ATS. Insufficient white space can also make your resume look cluttered and hard to read, which is something you definitely want to avoid.