Essential Final Resume Review Checklist Before Submission

Introduction

Submitting your resume can be a nerve-wracking experience. It’s the first impression you make on potential employers, and you want to ensure that it reflects your best self. To help you achieve that, we’ve created an essential final resume review checklist. This guide will walk you through the key elements to check before hitting that submit button.

1. Formatting Consistency

Font and Size

Ensure that your resume uses a consistent font and size throughout. Common choices include Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in sizes 10 to 12. Consistency in font style and size helps maintain a professional appearance.

Margins and Spacing

Check that your margins are uniform (typically 1 inch) and that there is adequate spacing between sections. Proper spacing enhances readability and gives your resume a clean look.

Bullet Points

If you use bullet points, make sure they are formatted consistently. Use the same style (e.g., round, square) and indentation for all bullet points to maintain uniformity.

2. Content Accuracy

Spelling and Grammar

Run a thorough spell check and grammar check. Simple mistakes can create a negative impression. Consider reading your resume out loud or asking a friend to review it for any overlooked errors.

Contact Information

Double-check that your contact information is accurate and up-to-date. This includes your phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile link, if applicable. Ensure that your email address looks professional.

Job Titles and Dates

Verify that all job titles and employment dates are correct. Use a consistent format for dates (e.g., “January 2020 - March 2021”) and ensure that your work history is presented in reverse chronological order.

3. Tailoring Your Resume

Keywords from Job Descriptions

Review the job descriptions for the positions you are applying for and incorporate relevant keywords into your resume. This not only helps your resume get noticed by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) but also shows hiring managers that you have the skills they are looking for.

Relevant Experience

Highlight the experience that is most relevant to the job you are applying for. If you have a diverse background, consider creating a “Relevant Experience” section that showcases your most applicable roles.

4. Achievements and Metrics

Quantifiable Achievements

Wherever possible, include quantifiable achievements in your work experience. Instead of saying “responsible for sales,” say “increased sales by 30% over six months.” This helps potential employers see the impact you’ve made in previous roles.

Skills Section

Ensure that your skills section reflects both hard and soft skills relevant to the job. Tailor this section to match the requirements of the job description. Including a mix of technical skills and interpersonal skills can make you a more attractive candidate.

5. Visual Appeal

Use of Color

If you choose to use color, do so sparingly. A pop of color can make your resume stand out, but too much can be distracting. Stick to a professional color palette and ensure that it complements your overall design.

Length of Resume

Aim for a one-page resume if you have less than 10 years of experience. If you have more extensive experience, a two-page resume is acceptable. However, ensure that every piece of information is relevant and adds value.

6. Final Review

Readability

Before submission, check the overall readability of your resume. Ask yourself if someone unfamiliar with your background can easily understand your qualifications and experiences.

Print and Digital Versions

If you will be submitting your resume both digitally and in print, ensure that the formatting remains intact in both versions. Save your resume as a PDF to preserve the formatting when emailing or uploading.

Use of Tools

Consider using platforms like MyLiveCV to help you format and optimize your resume. These tools can assist in ensuring that your resume meets industry standards and is ATS-friendly.

Conclusion

Taking the time to thoroughly review your resume before submission can make a significant difference in your job search. By following this checklist, you can ensure that your resume is polished, complete, and ready to impress potential employers. Remember, your resume is a reflection of your professional self—make sure it shines!

Published at: Dec 21, 2025