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Writing resumes, job applications. AP Photo/Eduardo Verdugo
Key points for a resume heading
In crafting the perfect resume, many overlook the simplicity of the document's heading. Something that should contain clear, accurate information can hurt your chances if sloppily thrown together.
The heading of a resume should contain the applicant's full contact information. Name, address, telephone, and email should all appear. The exact format may vary, but the information must be accurate and presented professionally.
A few quick tips will guide you along the way.
1. No typos: In every portion of a resume, an employer is looking to see that you have given the appropriate care in creating it. If there are spelling mistakes, it indicates that you rushed through writing or failed to proofread. An employer is looking for just such a reason to eliminate you from consideration. Imagine how poorly it looks when you misspell your name or street address. This is information which you obviously know, so if it's misspelled, it's because you did not take the time to correct it. Don't make that mistake.
2. Be accurate: Information changes over the years. New addresses or telephone numbers are quite common. If yours has changed, be sure to update that on a resume. An employer is not going to search for you if you have listed an inactive telephone number, and they surely will not gain a good impression if the person answering has never heard of you. Again, if your contact information is not correct, or out of date, it shows that you haven't taken the time to be precise. Note: your information could change while an employer is still considering you for the position. If that is likely, it is more than appropriate to send a new resume, with a quick note that you have updated your contact information. Don't send the information alone, because an employer does not want to put different pieces together. By sending a full and updated resume, the employer is able to amend your application at his or her convenience.
3. Your name could be an issue: Our names are part of our identity, and generally they should be displayed proudly. However, there are occasions that you should consider using a nickname, or shortening your full name to help you in the job application process. That is not to say you should hide your real name, or avoid using it once you get that job. Nor should you ever use a nickname on a background check, contract, or any other official paperwork. Only on a resume or cover letter should you consider using this informal substitute.
There are some employers that simply discriminate on the basis of name, and not necessarily out of malicious intent. Instead, embarrassment often causes an employer to ignore you if he is unsure of how to pronounce your name. It is a somewhat unprofessional stance, but a reality all the same. The appropriate move would be for the employer to attempt the name as best as possible, and apologize if corrected. Instead, the employer just does not call. This is a very delicate and subjective issue. If you feel it insulting to change your name on a resume, then by all means use your full name. At least consider, however, that making your resume easier to read, and making yourself easier to contact, will only help you toward your goal in this instance. Also, giving your full, unique name will help you stand out when you reach the office for an interview. Once the employer hears your correct pronunciation, he will feel more at ease in using the name thereafter.
4. Do not include an inappropriate email address: If your primary email address uses a nickname or phrase that might be considered inappropriate, use a different address. No employer is interested in contacting "studman81" or "sexygurl4u." Even relatively innocent names, such as "lionsfan09" or "livonialady" could dissuade an employer from contacting you. Employers are looking for professionalism in your resume, and a simple email that encompasses your name or initials is most appropriate. With so many free email services available, it is no inconvenience to create a new, professional email account. Having another account can also help keep your job leads or interview scheduling organized by separating it from your daily email messages. In addition, if your email address utilizes periods, dashes, underscores, or certain letter combinations that are difficult to read when in lower case, use ALL CAPS to write your email address and remove any underlining which may have automatically formatted by your word processor. Using small caps can give your email address an even better look.
5. Use a clean, simple format: The most common placement of the heading is the center of the page. You can align the information to the left as long as it is easily read, but it may give your resume an unbalanced look. Furthermore, you should never use logos, images, or pictures of any type in the heading of a resume. You may include a dividing line under your name or under the completed heading, but do not use letterhead or templates that contain pictures. Some common digital templates out there do use imagery, in an effort to get your resume noticed. It will be noticed, but it will be noticed for the wrong reason, and generally tossed aside.
Remember, these are samples, but not the only way to format your resume heading. You might align your telephone and email to the left, with mailing address to the right, or other combination. This example, however, will definitely provide a clear and professional start to your resume.
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Sample resume headings, Property of Tim Slovik
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