The Elements of Resume Style, 2nd Edition

TWO

Presentation: The Reader Sees More Than Words

Just as your unspoken communications (e.g., facial expressions, wardrobe) often set the tone for your spoken words and deeply affect how those words are received, there are a number of elements beyond the words in your résumé that set the tone for your written words and have great impact on the reader’s level of interest and attention. Here they are.

PAPER

So many candidates—among those who still use paper—use nonwhite paper these days that you will probably attract more attention with white paper. If you can afford it, fluorescent white 24-pound, 100 percent cotton is ideal. If not, regular bright white 24-pound bond will suffice. The choice you make here is a lot like the modest investment that ...