Pick a clean, professional template that uses a reverse-chronological layout. This layout highlights recent program work and keeps your timeline clear for hiring managers and ATS.
Keep your resume length tight. One page works for entry and mid-career Program Assistant roles. Use two pages only if you have long, directly relevant program history.
Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt so readers scan easily.
Give each section clear headings: Contact, Summary, Experience, Education, Skills, and Tools. Use bullet points under each role and start bullets with action verbs that show your impact.
Keep spacing consistent. Use 1.0–1.15 line spacing and leave margins around 0.5–1 inch. White space helps readers find details fast.
Avoid fancy columns, graphics, and unusual fonts. Those elements often break ATS parsing and distract human readers. Simple formatting beats cramped, ornate designs every time.
Watch these common mistakes: crowded pages with tiny fonts, inconsistent bullet styles, and vague headings. Also avoid long paragraphs; short bullets work better.
Use plain section order and standard headings so ATS and people parse your file. Save your file as a PDF unless the job asks for a Word file.