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The Lion’s Pride: Resumes

Bullets vs. Paragraphs

                                                                   

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:  

 

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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Resumes

 

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