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I'm often asked
which is better on a resume - bullets or paragraphs?
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Both are often used. They're often
misused, too. Here's a comparison of how each method handles three
common needs:
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ORGANIZATION
Bullets:
Each bullet makes a specific point. The reader, thus, is able to
determine how many points are being made in every heading.
Paragraph:
The paragraphical method creates blocks of
text. There may be many points within the same paragraph.
GRAMMAR
Bullets:
Bullets are short points. Proper use of this form eliminates first
person pronouns (e.g. "I," "we," "us," etc.).
Paragraph:
Most using paragraphs do so incorrectly, utilizing standard sentence
structure and include first person pronouns.
APPEARANCE
Bullets:
Because bullets provide many info nuggets and lots of white space, it's
often easier on the eye.
Paragraph:
Blocks of text containing several points within each block tends to be a little
daunting at first glance.
Which to choose? Both have their merits, but the vast majority of
hiring managers I've spoken to favor bullets. Some (mainly those
hiring higher-pay bracket professionals) favor paragraphs.
IN THE CARAVAN: Carefully weigh
what bullets and paragraphs can do before choosing either method.
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