When you're crafting a journalist resume, choosing the right template is crucial. Opt for a clean, reverse-chronological layout. This layout highlights your most recent experience, making it easy for hiring managers to see your most relevant work first.
Keep your resume to one page if you're early in your career. If you have extensive experience, two pages can work, but be concise. Remember, it's all about showcasing your best work without overwhelming the reader.
Stick with professional, ATS-friendly fonts like Arial or Calibri in sizes 10-12pt for the body and 14-16pt for headers. Adequate white space is important, so don’t cram too much in. Simple formatting is best—avoid graphics and overly creative designs that can confuse both humans and ATS.
Common mistakes to watch out for include using complex templates that might confuse ATS, excessive color choices, and cluttered layouts that lack white space. Make sure your sections are clearly labeled with standard headings to enhance readability.