When you're putting together your resume as a merchandiser, pick a clean and professional template. A reverse-chronological layout works best because it highlights your most recent experience first, making it easy for hiring managers to see your relevant skills quickly. This layout is also ATS-friendly, which is crucial since many companies use applicant tracking systems to filter resumes.
Keep your resume to one page if you're early in your career or have limited experience. If you've got extensive experience in merchandising, you might need two pages, but make sure every word counts. Being concise helps you get your message across without overwhelming the reader.
Choose a professional font like Arial or Calibri, and keep your font size between 10-12pt for body text and 14-16pt for headings. Consistent spacing and adequate white space improve readability, so avoid cluttered designs. Simple formatting usually looks better to both human readers and ATS.
Common mistakes include using complex templates with too many graphics, which can confuse ATS software. Also, steer clear of unusual colors or fonts that can distract from your content. Remember to use clear section headings to guide the reader through your resume.