When you're crafting a resume for an executive position, choosing the right template is crucial. Go for a clean, professional look that prioritizes readability. A reverse-chronological layout works best here, as it clearly highlights your career progression and key accomplishments.
Keep your resume to one page if you're mid-career, but don't hesitate to extend to two pages if you have extensive relevant experience. Focus on conciseness; every word should serve a purpose and convey your leadership impact.
Select professional fonts like Calibri or Arial in sizes 10-12pt for the body and 14-16pt for headers. Make sure to maintain ample white space and consistent spacing to avoid a cluttered appearance. Simple formatting is more effective than overly creative designs, especially for human readers and ATS.
Avoid common mistakes like using complex templates with columns or graphics that confuse ATS. Don't overdo colors or fonts, and ensure there's enough white space to keep the document easy to read. Stick with standard section headings for clarity.