Resume Advice

Format

Look at resume format examples online. There are a lot of different styles and formats. Just make sure the format you use is clear and easy to read.

Be consistent in whatever format you choose. For example don’t use “Sept” then list a date as 08/12/20. If you have an empty line after a title to one section, then do the same thing for all the others. Being consistent will make you look more conscientious to potential employers.

Resumes read from top to bottom left to right. The most relevant and important information should start at the top.

Any information that is listed chronologically should be newest to oldest from top to bottom.

Keep your resume one page. You can adjust margins, tabs, spacing and font size to make it fit. You do not need long descriptions in your resume. Those can go into your cover letter.

Use your name in your file names

Make sure your file name contains your name. Do not name your resume file “resume.pdf” or it could get lost. You want to make everything you submit easy for the reviewer.

Content

Proof read your resume for grammar and consistent formatting.

Make sure you have your contact information in an easy to read banner.

Objective – it is becoming popular to not have a formal “objective” on your resume. If you elect to not have an objective make sure you brand yourself in the name banner, ie John Smith Character Animator.

What to include

It is ok to include non-related work experience if you don’t have enough related work experience. Any past work experience shows you are “employable.” Just keep the explanation concise and explain how their might be some relevance. For example you might mention you managed a group of employees or were responsible for training. Even though the job was not in animation it shows you have applicable skills.

Volunteer work is ok to list on your resume. It can be in its own section or in work history. If volunteer work is listed in work experience just make sure you are clear the job is volunteer work by describing it that way.

What not to include

You probably do not need to list software that is everyone knows like Microsoft word or excel.

Don’t include a photo of yourself on your resume or website. Some HR people worry this could be used in a complaint or lawsuit because they did or did not hire someone.

You do not need to include references or “reference available upon request.” They will ask for references if they want them.