The bottom line in writing résumés

Consider the following when writing your résumé:

Quantifiable results. Improvements in quality, productivity, efficiency and other performance measures, along with cost savings, are always impressive. Numbers and percentages are a powerful addition to any résumé.

Record of strong and steady promotion. No matter what your career path, if you’ve been regularly promoted, highlight it. Promotions communicate success and value. If you’re already a top performer, the expectation is that you’ll continue to be a top performer.

Project highlights. If you work on projects, highlighting those projects can add depth and substance to your résumé. Briefly explain the project, your role and the results.

Visual presentation matters. Print out your résumé when you’re “almost done” and look at its visual impact. Is the right information standing out? Is the page well-balanced? Do you see “widow lines,” where the last word of a sentence or a paragraph is on a line by itself? If that happens, edit until you get it up one line. Content is king, but because your résumé will be viewed by humans, it is important to make it visually pleasing and professional.

Write tight. Be sure your sentence structure is tight and that you’re not using any words that do not add value to the résumé. Use clear, straightforward and specific language that will help your text jump off the page.

Wendy Enelow is co-author of “Expert Résumés for Military-to-Civilian Transitions” and “Executive Résumé Toolkit.” www.wendyenelow.com