Header Etiquette

Without exception, you have a name and a way to be reached. Exclude one or the other and chances
are you will not be successful in your career search. Use the same header information and format for all
your documents. The following details an accepted approach to listing contact information:

Name:  You can be as formal as you like; informality is acceptable to a degree. Use of nicknames is
more common than you may think. If your name is Kimberly and you go by Kim, you don’t need to put
“Kimberly ‘Kim’” on your resume – just pick one. Just don’t put anything too informal.

Street Address, City, and State:  If you have a P.O. Box address and a regular street address, pick
one- there’s no need to include both. If you’re relocating and have an address in the new area, you can
either use your old address or your new one depending on how soon you’re planning to move.

Contact Numbers:  Phone numbers are most commonly designated as work, cell, home, day, or eve-
ning. As a side note, no need to include a fax number. One important and often forgotten piece of infor-
mation: if you leave a message on your phone, make sure it is professional.

Email/Web Portfolio Address:  General rule of thumb is to designate an email account for tracking job
searching applications and responses. Make sure your email address is simple - maybe include part of
your name and a simple number code. Do not use inappropriate, un-professional sounding emails.