When you're crafting a resume for a fundraising role, choosing the right template is key. A clean, professional layout works best, especially one that follows a reverse-chronological format. This layout makes it easy for hiring managers and ATS to follow your work history and achievements.
Your resume should ideally be one page long, particularly if you're mid-career. If you have extensive experience in fundraising, a two-page resume is acceptable but keep it concise. Aim to highlight your most relevant skills and successes without overwhelming the reader.
Use professional fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia in sizes 10-12pt for body text and 14-16pt for headers. Good spacing is essential; ensure there's enough white space to make your resume easy to read. Avoid overly creative designs, as they can confuse ATS systems and distract human readers.
Common mistakes include using complex templates with multiple columns that ATS might struggle to parse. Also, steer clear of excessive colors or non-standard fonts that can reduce your professional appearance. Finally, ensure your section headings are clear and standard to guide the reader effectively.