Resume Tips

For landing that first job after college

Don’ts

Do NOT list a social security number or security clearance level (for security purposes).
Do NOT write in first or third person. (Don’t say "I", and don’t say "Ms. Jones" or "he.")
Do NOT use links, headers, tables, etc. that might not translate electronically.
Do NOT make reference to handicaps, height, weight, health, sexual orientation, family, religion, politics, hobbies. An exception might be if you had a very impressive role, for example, "National President of Young Republicans," but you risk biasing the interviewer against you.

Consider listing college or work-related organized activities, such as campus leadership positions, intramural teams, etc.
Carefully use an Objective: if you do include an Objective, make sure it is realistic and useful to the interviewer. For example, consider stating if you want a computational/analytical or laboratory job vs. an outdoor field assignment - and be sincere!
Add SUBTLE watermarks to distinguish your resume, or slightly off-white paper if printed.
List awards, but unless it’s a Nobel Prize, the interviewer is unlikely to appreciate the significance.

Limit the length to one printable sheet of paper, back and front. An exception would be if you have significant and related experience, such as an engineering position between undergraduate and graduate school. resumes and Curriculum Vitae when seeking a second or third professional position will be longer.
List a reliable phone number, your email address, and your mailing address.
Include colleges, college degrees, and grade point on your resume if seeking your first job after graduating. After you’ve developed skills and experience in the professional work force you no longer need to include your grade point.
List classes of primary interest. (This is only if seeking your first job after graduating.)
List unique software or laboratory skills.
List foreign languages in which you are fluent.
List professional society activities.
Include work experience if it is relative to your field. Do not list any activities or jobs before college.
Include military service.
Include relevant certifications (for example, Engineer in Training).