Pick a template that puts work history and results first. Use a reverse-chronological or hybrid layout so hiring managers see your recent finance projects quickly.
Keep length tight. One page suits entry and mid-career finance consultants. Use two pages only when you have long, directly relevant consulting engagements and measurable outcomes.
Choose fonts that parse well for applicant tracking systems. Use Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt.
Give each section room to breathe. Use consistent margins and 1.0–1.15 line spacing. White space makes numeric accomplishments easier to scan and compare.
Use simple formatting. Avoid heavy graphics, text boxes, and multiple columns. Those elements often break ATS parsing and hide your financial metrics.
Follow a clear section order. Start with contact and summary, then skills, experience, education, and certifications. Use standard headings like "Experience," "Education," and "Certifications" so systems and humans find them.
Quantify your work. Show cost savings, revenue gains, or efficiency improvements with numbers and timeframes. Put metrics near bullet starts so they stand out.
Avoid these common mistakes. Don’t use nonstandard fonts or tiny text. Don’t cram long paragraphs; break experience into short bullets that list action, scope, and result.
Proof your file type before you apply. Save as PDF if the job posting allows. Use DOCX if the posting requires editable uploads.