Do You Put Periods After Bullet Points on Resume?

The question of whether to include periods after bullet points on a resume is one, among job seekers. In the world of resumes even small decisions can have an impact. While there is no answer it’s crucial to understand conventions and make a choice that aligns with your resumes overall presentation and industry standards. This guide aims to explore this punctuation dilemma and provide insights to help you create a standout resume for all the reasons.

March 2, 2024 by Kazu Fujimoto

Should You Use Periods After Bullet Points on a Resume?

So should you use periods after bullet points on your resume? Well it depends. If the bullet points consist of sentences it is recommended to end them with a period. This helps each point read like a thought and gives your resume a look. However if the bullet points are sentence fragments, phrases or single words omitting periods is advisable. Adding periods, in cases may make the points appear abrupt or disjointed.  

When it comes to using periods in a mix of sentences and phrases it’s important to maintain consistency. The key is to select an approach and stick with it throughout your resume. Many career experts argue that, in todays world either style is acceptable and the use of periods is a minor detail. What truly matters is that your bullet points are concise compelling and effectively communicate your experience and qualifications. Focus on beginning each point with a verb and quantifying your achievements whenever possible.

Like rules regarding resumes the guidelines for punctuating bullet points tend to evolve over time. If you’re unsure it’s advisable to review resume samples in your industry to determine the standard. Ultimately maintaining consistency and clarity is of importance.

When to Use Periods After Bullets on a Resume

Determining whether or not to use periods after bullet points on a resume depends on factors.

Here are some general guidelines; 

When to Use Periods

Use a period if the bullet point forms a sentence. For example;

•   “. Implemented a training program for entry level employees.”

For instance;

• I’ve created social media marketing campaigns that boosted brand awareness by, than 50% in the quarter. 

When Not to Use Periods After Bullets on a Resume

When it comes to your resume bullet points serve the purpose of highlighting information for reading. However there’s some debate about whether or not to include periods after each bullet point. The general agreement is as follows;

Don’t use periods after bullet points if:

The bullets are intended to be fragments or incomplete sentences. Adding periods in cases may give the impression that the bullets are full sentences when they’re actually not meant to be.

• Boosting sales by 25% on a basis.
•  Streamlining production processes for cost reduction purposes.
•  Being recognized as “Employee of the Month” three times in 2018.

The bullet points are meant to be a list of keywords, key accomplishments or qualifications. Periods are not necessary and can clutter the look.

• My skills encompass proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Cloud and CRM software. 
• Additionally, I am fluent in English, Spanish and French. 
• My educational background includes a B.A. In Business Administration with a minor, in Marketing.

Check out: How Many Bullet Points Are on A Resume

Couple instances where using periods 

If the bullet points are complete sentences, the periods help demonstrate that. This is more common in cover letters than resumes.

• I have over 10 years of experience in project management.
• My communication and organizational skills have been repeatedly praised by colleagues and managers.
• I am passionate about efficiency and achieving operational excellence.

For consistency’s sake, if some bullet points are complete sentences and require periods, you may choose to put periods after all the bullet points. Just be sure they continue to look uniform on the page.

In the end, whether or not to use periods after your bullet points comes down to your personal preference and what you think looks most clean and professional. But when in doubt, it’s best to leave the periods out. Focus on getting your key points across clearly and concisely.

Style Guidelines for Periods After Bullets

When it comes to adding periods after bullet points on your resume, there are a few style guidelines to keep in mind:

Consistency is key

Whichever punctuation style you choose for your bullet points ensure that you follow it consistently across your resume. Avoid using periods for some bullets while excluding them for others.

Periods are a matter of preference

Whether you opt for adding a period after each point or leaving them out altogether maintain this approach consistently within each section..

Consider your industry

Consider the preferences within your industry. Different industries may have varying preferences when it comes to bullet points. Traditional or corporate fields often include periods while creative industries tend to omit them. If you’re uncertain, about the prevailing style in your field it can be helpful to review job listings and examine how employers and candidates format their bullet points. Additionally you can look at sample resumes from professionals currently working in your industry.

Aim for a clean, uncluttered look

Strive for an organized appearance in your resume. If you do choose to use periods ensure that they don’t create an messy look on the page. Opt for a sans serif font for your bullet points. Make the period slightly smaller than the text itself. This will create an uncluttered effect where the periods are subtly integrated into the content of each bullet point.

Ultimately it’s important to make a decision based on what you believe looks professional and visually appealing within the style and design of your resume. Consistency is key—whether you choose to include periods or not apply that choice consistently throughout your document for results. Focus on crafting bullet points that effectively showcase your experience, skills and accomplishments. Ultimately these aspects will have a impact, on impressing potential employers than whether or not you decide to add periods.

Conclusion

So there you have it the say, on whether to use periods after bullet points in resumes. Different style guides may have their recommendations. What really matters is that you pick an approach and stick with it consistently throughout your resume. Ultimately including or omitting periods is unlikely to impact your job application. Instead focus on creating a resume that showcases your experience, skills and achievements. Long as you do that a periods here and there won’t make much of a difference. Now take another look, at your resume make any adjustments if needed and start applying for those dream jobs – you’ve got this!

If you’re looking into some career services to increase the chances of you getting a job, check out our services.