When you're crafting a resume for a General Office Assistant position, go for a clean, professional template. A reverse-chronological layout works best because it highlights your most recent experience at the top. This makes it easier for hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS) to quickly see your qualifications.
Keep your resume to one page, especially if you're early in your career. If you've got years of relevant experience, a two-page format can be acceptable, but make sure every word counts. Be concise and focus on the skills and experiences that directly relate to the job.
Choose an ATS-friendly font like Calibri or Arial in sizes 10-12pt for the body and 14-16pt for headings. Consistent spacing and some white space help keep your resume readable. Avoid complex designs or too many colors; a straightforward approach works better for both ATS and human readers.
Common mistakes include using templates with columns that can confuse ATS, incorporating too many graphics, or not having enough white space, making it hard to read. Stick to clear, standard headings for each section to guide the reader smoothly through your resume.