Pick a clean layout that mirrors the work you do. For a Flat Sorting Machine Clerk, use a reverse-chronological layout so latest machine and sorting experience appears first.
Keep length to one page if you have under 10 years of related work. Use two pages only if you list many roles tied directly to sorting, maintenance, or safety.
Choose an ATS-friendly font like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Use 10-12pt for body text and 14-16pt for section headers so a recruiter reads key items quickly.
Use clear section headings such as Summary, Experience, Skills, and Certifications. Keep bullets short and start each with an action verb like "operated," "inspected," or "repaired."
Leave enough white space between sections and bullets. Aim for 1.0–1.15 line spacing and consistent margins so the document feels easy to scan.
Avoid complex columns, images, or icons that confuse ATS systems. Simple tables can break parsing, so avoid them for dates and locations.
Common mistakes include long paragraphs, inconsistent dates, and mixed fonts. Also avoid heavy color or decorative elements that distract from your duties and safety records.
Proofread for alignment, bullet consistency, and date order. Use plain text versions when an application form asks for pasted resumes.