résumé tips - Scannable Resumes

Scannable Resumes

Any time an employer requests a scannable version of your resume or a resume is sent via email or submitted through an on-line application site, certain formatting changes must be made to ensure that a resume is easy to read.  Employers who request scannable resumes or take online applications through their web site often download the resumes into a software system that enables them to search resumes in a database.  As a result, resumes need to be in a certain format in order to scan or download easily.   When emailing an employer a resume, a scannable version should be included below the body text of your email (the cover/application letter) in addition to attaching a Microsoft Word version of your resume.  Many employers will not open attachments to avoid viruses or prefer the convenience of the resume included in the email.

To create a resume that is easy to read in both a scanned and emailed format, follow these guidelines:

·         Left justify all text in your resume, including your name and address, section headings and dates and location of employment.  Do not use columns.

·         Do not use underlining or italics.

·         Bold may be used but will not appear when the document is transferred into email.

·         Bullet points may not be used but should be replaced with a – or * sign.  Do not allow Microsoft Word to automatically format these, as they need to be hand entered, not computer generated.

·         Do not use text boxes, tables, lines, graphics, tabs, parentheses and brackets.

·         Use CAPITALIZATION to make key items such as your name, section headings, and job titles stand out.

·         Two page electronic versions of the resume do not need a heading on the 2^nd page.

·         A key word section is not necessary, as key industry words should be included within the text of the resume.

·         Printed versions should be on plain, white, copy paper and should not be folded or stapled.

After completing this version of the resume, save it in a Microsoft Word file, cut and paste it into an email, and send it to yourself to ensure that it is easy to read.  Once the version is finished, print as needed or cut and paste it into emails or application text boxes for job applications

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