As a job seeker, one of the most important tools you have is your resume. It’s the first impression you make on potential employers, and you want to make sure it’s a good one. To achieve this, you need to pay attention to the details, including your resume margins, fonts, style, and paper.
Employers receive a large number of resumes for each job posting, and they often have limited time to go through them all. Your goal is to make it as easy as possible for them to understand your qualifications and see why you’re the best candidate for the job. This is where the details come in.
The first thing to consider is your resume margin. Margins give your resume a clean, organized look that’s easy to read. Experts recommend setting your margins to between 0.5 and 1 inch on all sides. This ensures that your resume doesn’t look cluttered, and it provides enough white space to make the document visually appealing.
The font you choose is also important. Your goal is to make your resume easy to read, so don’t use a tiny font just to fit everything on one page. Stick to traditional fonts such as Arial or Times New Roman, and avoid novelty fonts that might be difficult to read. Experts recommend using a font size between 10 and 12 points so that your resume is easy on the eyes.
The style of your resume is another crucial factor. This includes how you structure the document and the language you use. Make sure you use a consistent format throughout the document, and break up information into sections with headers to make it easy to scan. Use active verbs and highlight your achievements to demonstrate your value to potential employers.
Finally, the type of paper you use can also make a difference. While most employers accept digital resumes, some still prefer paper copies. When printing your resume, choose a good quality paper with a weight of at least 24 pounds. This will help your resume stand out from other applicants and show that you pay attention to detail.


Paying attention to these details can help you make a great impression on potential employers. By setting your resume margins, choosing the right font and style, and using quality paper, you can create a professional and effective resume that showcases your skills and experience. As a job seeker, your resume is your marketing tool to showcase your skills, qualifications, and experiences to potential employers. However, it’s important to note that the content isn’t the only factor that matters in a resume. The formatting of your resume, including the margins, fonts, style, and paper, are equally important as it helps to make the document easy to read, visually appealing, and professional-looking.
Margins play an essential role in making your resume look organized and professional. Properly defined margins help to create a clean and neat structure that ensures your content is easy to read and doesn’t look cramped or disorderly. A good margin size for a resume is 1 inch on all sides, as it provides enough whitespace for the text.
Fonts also matter in a resume as it plays a significant role in highlighting your skills, experience, and qualifications. Using the right font makes the document more readable and helps to create a professional look. You should avoid using decorative fonts, and instead, stick to more standard fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri, as they are easy to read and widely accepted. Also, make sure your font size is at least 10pt and not larger than 12pt.
Style is the third factor to consider when crafting a resume. While style may seem insignificant, it helps to create a visual flow that guides the recruiter from top to bottom. The resume style should be consistent and reflect the branding of the company you are applying to. For instance, if the company is known for using a clean and modern aesthetic, your resume should reflect this by using that style, font, and color scheme.
Finally, the type of paper you use is also essential when creating a resume. Using high-quality paper that is heavyweight, cotton-based, or with a glossy finish displays attention to detail and professionalism. The inventory you choose should complement the overall style and design of the resume.
Remember, your resume speaks volumes about you, so it’s vital to ensure that it’s well-presented and organized. Pay attention to the margins, fonts, style, and paper, and aim to create a cohesive, visually appealing document that showcases your strengths and capabilities. By taking the extra time to perfect your resume’s formatting, you are demonstrating that you care about quality, and this can be the edge you need to secure your dream job.
Margins
When it comes to creating a professional resume, paying attention to margins is crucial. Margins ensure that your resume is visually appealing, easy to read and that there is enough white space to avoid clutter.
A. Setting Correct Margins
First and foremost, it’s important to set the margins correctly. The standard size for margins is one inch on all sides, but depending on your content, you may need to adjust the size of your margins accordingly.
B. Optimal Margin Size and Spacing
To make your resume look polished and professional, it’s recommended to use a margin size of 0.5 to 1 inch. Additionally, consider spacing between sections and lines. Utilizing spacing around 1.15 to 1.5 on your document will make it easy on the eye while keeping it concise.
C. Margins Recommended for Different Types of Resumes


Different types of resumes may require different margin settings. Here are some margin recommendations for various types of resumes:
Chronological Resume Margins – A chronological resume needs to be in a reverse-chronological order. To capture the attention of the hiring manager, it is essential to maintain a one-inch margin for the document. This type of resume will have to showcase everything about your past job experiences.
Functional Resume Margins – A functional resume does not necessarily follow a timeline approach but highlights your skills in bullet points. It has to reflect a minimalistic approach while displaying the maximum amount of information. We recommend using a 0.75-inch margin size in this type of resume since it has to be informative as well as easy to scan.
Combination Resume Margins – Combination resumes combine both the chronological and the functional resumes, presenting work history as well as highlighting key skill sets. Having a 1 inch margin size is ideal for this type of document since it needs to exhibit everything including the key points.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to make the most of your resume margins, so that it looks professional, polished, and easy to read.
Fonts
Choosing the right font for your resume is crucial, as it can make or break your chances of landing an interview. The font you choose should be readable, professional, and reflect your industry and personal style.
A. Choosing the Right Font
When choosing a font, it’s important to consider the job you’re applying for and the industry you’re in. For example, if you’re in a creative field, you may want to choose a more unique or stylized font to showcase your personality, whereas a more traditional or conservative industry may require a more simple and professional font.
B. Popular Fonts for Resumes
There are three main types of fonts that are commonly used for resumes:
Serif Fonts – These fonts have small lines or flourishes at the ends of the letters, giving them a classic and traditional look. Examples include Times New Roman, Georgia, and Garamond.
Sans-Serif Fonts – These fonts have a clean and modern look, with no lines or flourishes at the ends of the letters. Examples include Arial, Helvetica, and Calibri.
Script Fonts – These fonts mimic handwriting and give a more creative and personal touch to your resume. Examples include Brush Script, Lucida Handwriting, and Vivaldi.
C. Optimal Font Size and Spacing
Your font size and spacing should be easy to read and visually pleasing. A font size between 10-12 points is recommended, with a line spacing of 1.15-1.5. It’s important to have enough white space on your resume to make it easy to scan and read.
D. Fonts Recommended for Different Types of Resumes
Different types of resumes may require different fonts to best showcase your skills and experience:
Chronological Resume Fonts – For this type of resume, it’s recommended to use a classic and legible font, such as Times New Roman or Garamond.
Functional Resume Fonts – A more modern and clean font, such as Arial or Calibri, may work well for this type of resume as it emphasizes skills rather than work history.
Combination Resume Fonts – This type of resume can benefit from a font that combines readability and style, such as Georgia or Verdana.
Your font choice should complement your resume design and content, and not distract from it. By choosing the right font and ensuring it’s easy to read and visually appealing, you’ll have a better chance of standing out to potential employers.
Style
Having a consistent and polished style for your resume is crucial when it comes to making a good impression on potential employers. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
A. Setting up a style guide
Before you start putting your resume together, it’s a good idea to set up a style guide. This document will outline the guidelines for your resume’s formatting, from margins to font choices to the use of color. Having a style guide in place will help ensure consistency and make it easier to make edits and updates down the line.
B. Consistency in style throughout the resume
Speaking of consistency, it’s important to maintain a uniform style throughout the entirety of your resume. This means using the same font (or fonts, if you choose to use more than one), keeping margins the same width, and using the same heading styles for each section. When everything looks cohesive and organized, it’s easier for hiring managers to focus on your skills and qualifications.
C. Bullet points
Using bullet points is a great way to make your resume easy to read and quickly highlight your strengths. When writing bullet points, start each with an action verb and keep them concise – one or two lines max. This helps keep the focus on your accomplishments and skills, rather than lengthy descriptions.
D. Using color
While it’s not strictly necessary, using color can help your resume stand out and make it visually appealing. However, it’s important to use color judiciously – choose one or two accent colors and use them sparingly throughout your document. Make sure the colors you choose are professional and easy to read.
E. Headers and footers
Using headers and footers can add a professional touch to your resume and make it easier to navigate. Include your name and contact information in the header, and consider adding page numbers or a brief summary of your qualifications in the footer. Just remember to keep them simple – you don’t want them to distract from the main content of your resume.
By keeping these tips in mind and following a consistent style throughout your resume, you can make sure potential employers focus on your skills and qualifications – not formatting errors.
Paper
When it comes to crafting a professional and polished resume, choosing the right paper quality can make a big difference in the overall impression your resume makes. Here are some tips to help you select the best paper for your needs.
A. Choosing the best paper quality for a resume
1. Understanding paper weights and types
Before you start shopping for resume paper, it’s important to understand the different types and weights available. Paper weight is measured in GSM (grams per square meter), and the higher the GSM, the thicker and heavier the paper will be. Common weights for resume paper range from 80 GSM to 120 GSM, with 100 GSM being a popular choice.
In terms of types, there are several options to choose from, including:
- Standard paper: This is the most commonly used type of paper for resumes. It has a smooth finish and is available in a variety of colors.
- Linen paper: Linen paper has a textured finish that gives it a more distinguished look. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something a little more unique.
- Cotton paper: Cotton paper is a high-quality option that is made from 100% cotton fibers. It has a luxurious feel and is often used for high-end resumes.
2. Recycled paper
If sustainability is important to you, consider using recycled paper for your resume. Recycled paper is made from post-consumer waste and is available in a variety of weights and colors. It’s a great choice if you want to make a positive impact on the environment without sacrificing quality.
B. Paper size
When it comes to resume paper size, the standard option is 8.5 x 11 inches. However, if you’re applying for a job overseas, it’s worth noting that the A4 paper size (8.27 x 11.69 inches) is more commonly used in many countries.
C. Printing tips
Once you’ve selected the perfect paper for your resume, it’s important to ensure that you’re printing it in the best possible way. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a high-quality printer.
- Avoid using too much ink, as this can cause the paper to wrinkle or smudge.
- Print on one side of the paper only.
- Consider using a laser printer instead of an inkjet printer for a sharper and more professional look.
By following these tips, you can be sure that your resume looks and feels as professional as possible.
Tips for a Professional Resume
When it comes to crafting a professional resume, the details matter. Here are some expert tips to help you create a polished and effective document:
A. Best Practices for Margins, Fonts, Style & Paper
- Margins: Use 1-inch margins on all sides to ensure a balanced and clean look.
- Fonts: Stick to classic and easy-to-read fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri. Avoid using decorative or cursive fonts.
- Style: Use a consistent style throughout your resume, including headings, subheadings, and bullet points. Use bold or italic formatting to draw attention to important details.
- Paper: Use high-quality paper in white or off-white color. Avoid using colored or patterned paper, as it can look unprofessional.
B. Using White Space Effectively
White space – the blank space between sections and elements – is essential for creating a clear and readable resume. Here are some tips for using white space effectively:
- Use enough white space to create a visual hierarchy and avoid overcrowding.
- Use bullet points to break up large blocks of text and create a more scannable document.
- Use clear headings and subheadings to create distinct sections and make it easier for the reader to navigate your resume.
C. Avoiding Common Mistakes
Here are some of the most common mistakes that professionals make when creating their resumes:
- Including irrelevant or outdated information.
- Being too vague or generic in your descriptions.
- Using passive language instead of active language.
- Failing to proofread for errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
By following these expert tips for resume margins, fonts, style, and paper, using white space effectively, and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a professional and impactful resume that stands out to potential employers.
Examples of Margins, Fonts, Style & Paper
A. Chronological Resume Example
A chronological resume is the most common type of resume, and it is best suited for individuals with a strong work history in a single industry. When it comes to margin size, I recommend using 1 inch margins all around. This provides enough white space to create a balanced layout without sacrificing valuable real estate.
For fonts, I suggest using a classic, easy-to-read font like Times New Roman, Arial or Calibri. A 12-point font size is the sweet spot, as it’s large enough to be legible but not so large that it takes up too much space. A key style tip when using a chronological resume style is to use bullet points to list your achievements, responsibilities, and accomplishments. This helps the reader quickly scan your resume and understand your qualifications.
When it comes to paper, a high-quality, neutral-colored paper like ivory, cream or white is the best option. A 24lb weight paper is the ideal choice as it feels substantial in your hand, but it won’t jam your printer. Avoid any type of colored or patterned paper, as it can be distracting and take away from the content of your resume.
B. Functional Resume Example
A functional resume is a great option for individuals with gaps in their work history or those looking to pivot their career. It emphasizes skills and achievements over work experience. When it comes to margins, a 1-inch margin is again the ideal choice to provide enough whitespace.
Fonts for functional resume styles are similar to those for chronological ones, with a classic font like Times New Roman or Arial in a 12-point size being optimal. Using bullet points and bolded text to highlight your achievements and skills is crucial with this type of resume style, as it helps the reader quickly recognize your key qualifications.
When it comes to paper, a neutral-colored paper like ivory, cream, or white is once again the best choice. As functional resumes are often longer than chronological ones, a 28lb weight paper is the best option as it will provide a more substantial feel.
C. Combination Resume Example
A combination resume is an excellent blend of the chronological and functional styles. It highlights skills, achievements, and work experience in equal parts. When it comes to margins, once again, 1-inch margins all around strike a balance between maximizing content and providing enough whitespace.
Fonts for combination resume styles are the same as those for chronological and functional styles. The key to a combination resume is to create sections that use the best style for each kind of information.
Resume Formatting for Online Applications
A. Optimizing for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
Many companies use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to screen resumes before they even reach the hiring manager. To optimize your resume for an ATS, consider the following:
- Use job-specific keywords: Look at the job description and use keywords that match the job requirements. This will increase the chances of your resume being selected by the ATS.
- Simplify formatting: ATS software can struggle with complex layouts, so stick to a simple, clean design.
- Avoid graphics and tables: The ATS software cannot read visual elements like graphics and tables, so it’s best to leave them out.
B. Converting to PDF
When applying online, it’s essential to convert your resume into a PDF format to ensure that your formatting stays intact. Here’s why:
- Consistency: A PDF ensures that your resume looks the same on any device or operating system.
- Security: PDFs are less vulnerable to malware attacks than other file formats.
- File size: PDFs tend to have smaller file sizes, making it easier for hiring managers to open and review your application.
To convert your word document into a PDF, select “Save As” and choose “PDF” as the file format. It’s a simple step that can make a significant difference in your online job search.
Remember, when applying for jobs online, resume formatting can make all the difference. Use these tips to optimize your resume for both ATS software and human reviewers, and always convert to PDF for a professional finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you’re in the process of creating your resume, you may have some questions that need answers. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and expert tips to help you on your way.
A. How do I know which type of resume to use?
Before creating your resume, it’s important to first decide which type of resume is best for your particular situation. The most common types of resumes include chronological, functional, and combination.
A chronological resume lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, highlighting your most recent accomplishments first. A functional resume emphasizes your skills and abilities over your work history. Finally, a combination resume combines the best of both worlds by highlighting both your skills and work experience.
B. How do I know which font and size to use?
When it comes to choosing the font and size for your resume, it’s important to remember that simplicity is key. Stick to easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and use a font size of 10-12 pt for the body and 14-16 pt for headings.
C. How do I choose the right paper for my resume?
Choosing the right paper for your resume can be overwhelming. We recommend opting for a high quality, heavyweight paper with a professional finish. This will give your resume a more polished and professional appearance.
D. Should I use a template or create my own design?
While templates can be a great starting point, it’s important to remember that your resume should be a reflection of your personal brand. Consider creating your own design to make your resume stand out from the crowd.
E. Can I use color in my resume?
When it comes to using color in your resume, less is more. Use colors sparingly and stick to professional colors like navy blue or forest green. Remember, the goal is to highlight your skills and experience, not distract from it.
F. How important are margins and spacing?
Margins and spacing are crucial to making your resume visually appealing and easy to read. Stick to standard margins (1 inch) and use line spacing to create separate sections of your resume. Avoid using too many different fonts or text sizes, as this can make your resume look cluttered.
G. What is the best format for submitting?
When submitting your resume, we recommend using a PDF format. This ensures that your formatting stays intact and can be easily read by potential employers.
Remember, your resume is your first impression to potential employers. By following these expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a polished and professional resume that showcases your skills and experience.
Related Articles
- Order Processor Resume: Winning Examples for 2023
- Phone Interview Success Tips for IT Professionals: A Guide
- 10 Best Thank-You Letter Samples and Templates for 2023
- Systems Analyst: Resume Examples for 2023
- Tech Resume Writing Tips, Examples, and Templates for 2023
