Automated, Keyword, Scannable Resume

Automated resumes are also called keyword or scannable resumes. Many larger employers scan resumes to store information in databases for later use. Computer searches are made to match the resume to the job by keywords commonly used in the career field. It is a good idea to telephone the personnel department of large employers ahead of time, to ask if the resumes are scanned.

The first step is to decide what type of resume best fits your needs. (See "The Resume," "Resume Types." Then, follow the steps below to prepare either a chronological or functional resume in a scanable layout:

• Keep the design simple; the equipment reads words, not pictures.
• Prepare resume on white paper.
• Do not bold, italicize, or underline any information.
• Use a size 12 simple font (such as: Arial, Courier, or Helvetica).
• Do not use hollow bullets.
• Do not use symbols such as the number (#) sign.
• Leave white spaces between sections of the resume so the computer can read it easily.
• Print only on one side of the paper.
• Use common language.
• Use KEYWORDS and phrases that are commonly used in your career field to describe your skills and experience.
• Do not fold the resume. Mail the resume in a large envelope with extra postage.

E-mail Resumes

Also, remember to use the scannable resume style when sending your resume via e-mail. The guidelines for e-mail resumes are similar to scannable resumes. The only difference is that bullets should not be used when preparing an e-mail resume. The simplified style makes it easier for computers to scan your resume.