Electronic Resume Format

With more and more information going on-line, technology has open new doors for job seekers!
Many business and organizations are now using on-line recruitment methods. Companies are now advertising available positions through their own company web site and providing job seekers the opportunity to apply for the position through e-mail.

Some businesses use web sites like the Mazemaster that allow employers to post jobs on the internet, check out our Job Postings section for a directory of these sites.

What is an Electronic Resume?

This resume format allows you to make your information electronically friendly! There are two basic versions of the Electronic Resume:

Plain Text: This version will allow you to insert your resume into an e-mail or to cut and paste it into on-line application forms.

Scannable: Employers are using the Electronic Resume format to select prospective candidates through a process that involves scanning all resumes submitted into a resume management system database. They will then run a search of all resumes that use keywords that are related to the position they are recruiting for.

Preparing Your Electronic Resume

In creating your Electronic Resume, you are not developing a different resume. All your information will basically stay the same. What you are doing is changing the format.
You must ensure that your resume will be recognized through the scanning process. To increase you chances for success, consider the following suggestions:

• Use keywords that highlight specific skills, abilities and qualifications (a well-written, well-prepared resume will already contain many of the necessary keywords!)
• Alter your margins, use a maximum of 65 characters per line
• Use a basic font and font size ranging from 10-14 points
• Do not use underlining, italics, script or graphics
• Avoid using columns
• Always list your name at the top, followed by your contact information on a separate line
• Place your name at the top of subsequent pages
• Leave sufficient spacing (avoid crowding information, the characters may run together when scanned)
• Use white paper
• Send an original ink jet or laser copy of your resume rather that a photocopy or faxed version
• Do not fold or staple your resume

REMEMBER:

• Before you send out your Electronic Resume try e-mailing it to a friend to see how it looks! You want to make sure that the format remains the same once sent electronically.
• Electronic Resumes are becoming more popular. It is a quick way to contact a potential employer!
• Putting your Electronic Resume on-line allows for more exposure! Consider using some of the sites to post your resume.