Follow these guidelines for helping your resume make it to the top of the pile:
Most managers spend about 40 seconds scanning each resume, so it’s important to make each word count. Summarize key qualifications at the beginning of your resume and limit the length to one or two pages.
List the name of the company and the dates that you worked there followed by the title of each job you have held.
List relevant education or training, including continuing education. Most potential employers like to see staff keeping up with the latest training in their fields.
Use keywords – nouns or short phrases – to describe your skills. Because many resumes are e-mailed, relevant keywords such as "self-motivated" or "Excel" are key to getting noticed. Job descriptions are excellent sources of relevant key words.
Begin each entry with an active verb like "completed" or "published." Make each sentence clear, concise and accurate. For example, "Supervised team of six paralegals."
Add related qualifications. For example, if you are seeking a customer service position with a sports equipment company, include the fact that you won the doubles title in your tennis league last year.
Download the sample resumes to the right to act as guides to help you get your resume looking its best.
