Resume FAQ

By Kevin Donlin

Here are four of the most frequently asked questions I'm hearing, with answers based on my 13 years of writing and hiring experience ...

Q. The job posting asks for a salary history. Should I send one?

A. No -- that's a job interview question.

This is a bit controversial, but I say "No." Reason? Salary is a job interview question. Employers will ask you for a salary to see if you're overqualified (making too much) or under-qualified (not making enough). So answering this question will only put you OUT of the running for some jobs. Although some employers may pitch your resume and cover letter if you don't answer their salary questions, those aren't companies you really want to work for, in my view.

If your resume paints a picture of you as someone who delivers tremendous value on the job, salary will become a secondary consideration to employers.

Q. How can I e-mail my resume correctly?

A. For best results, send your resume INSIDE and ATTACHED to your e-mail. That way, even if you have Windows and the employer has a Mac, for example, you're sure that your documents can be read.

1. copy and paste the text of your resume and cover letter into the body of an e-mail;
2. attach the document (in Word or WordPerfect) to the e-mail;
3. send a test message to yourself and a friend, to see how the whole thing will look and print -- if it's a mess, adjust and test until it works.

Q. How long should my resume be? One page or two?

A. There's no law against two-page resumes, especially for folks with 10 or more years of experience, or those in highly technical careers. I've done two-page resumes for recent college grads who had to list computer languages, certifications and other details.

But if your resume is two pages long, it should be a compelling read. Put your most valuable selling points near the top of page one. Summarize as needed and remember that you can always elaborate during a job interview.

There you have it! Four of the most commonly asked questions on resumes and cover letters in today's job market.