Space Equals Importance

There are some fundamental truths when it comes to resume writing. One of the most basic is that space equals importance. Not whitespace, but the amount of digital ink you dedicate to each position

I see a lot of resumes where the candidate provides a great deal of detail for an older position and significantly less for a more recent (and relevant to the position to which they are applying) position. The problem is that this sends a message – if unintentional – to readers that you don't believe your most recent position is as valuable or significant as the older role.

When considering how much space to dedicate to each position, consider the following "guidelines."

• Your most recent and relevant positions should occupy the most space in your professional timeline.
• Older or less relevant positions should occupy the least amount of space in your professional timeline.
• Foundational positions (that are still current enough to even be included on your resume) might be reduced to just a title, organization name, location, and dates.

Have a look at your resume. Are you sending the subtle message that your current role is of less importance than an older position?