Resume Header and Contact Section: Do's and Don'ts for a Killer First Impression

Hey everyone! Let's talk about that crucial first impression – your resume header and contact information. Getting this right is super important, especially with AI-powered Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) now heavily involved in the screening process. According to the World Economic Forum, recruiters spend only seconds glancing at a resume initially, so making a strong first impression is key.

Do's for Your Resume Header:

• Use a clear and concise professional name: Avoid nicknames or overly casual names. Your full legal name is best.
• Include a strong headline or summary statement: This should briefly highlight your skills and experience relevant to the job you're applying for. Think of it as a mini-elevator pitch.
• Add your professional contact information: This includes your phone number, email address, and optionally, your LinkedIn profile URL (but avoid other social media links). Keep it neat and easy to read.
• Consider your location: Depending on the job and your comfort level, you might include your city and state, but avoid your full address for privacy reasons.
• Tailor it to each job: Adjust your headline/summary statement to reflect the specific requirements of each job description.

Don'ts for Your Resume Header:

• Don't use images or graphics: ATS systems can't process images, and it can look unprofessional in many contexts.
• Don't include irrelevant information: Keep it focused on professional details directly related to the job.
• Don't use a cluttered or hard-to-read format: Keep it clean and simple; readability is paramount.
• Don't use unprofessional email addresses: Avoid using nicknames or informal email addresses – use a professional-sounding one.
• Don't forget to proofread: Typos and grammatical errors in this section will immediately impact your credibility.

Formatting Your Contact Information for ATS:

• Use a standard font: Stick to simple, professional fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
• Keep it consistent: Maintain consistent formatting throughout your resume.
• Avoid fancy formatting: Avoid using unusual fonts, excessive bolding, or italics, as these can confuse ATS systems.
• Use bullet points sparingly: Use bullet points only when absolutely necessary within the contact information section itself.

Remember, even if you're using an AI resume builder like RebuildCV, always review and edit the output to ensure everything is perfectly tailored and error-free. Remember to check out our guide on /knowledge-center/ats-friendly-resume-template-what-recruiters-actually-see for more ATS optimization tips. And if you're unsure about the best layout, check out /knowledge-center/best-resume-layout-for-indian-job-portals for some regional best practices. Good luck!