Tips for Resume Writing

1.) Short: Two pages or less.

2.) Sweet: Reflect results or accomplishments not responsibilities. i.e., Increased sales by 20%

3.) Professional Profile: Some people include objectives or a summary. This should be a line or two , specifically highlighting what you do or have been successful doing that introduces you to the potential employer "an elevator speech--can you introduce yourself and state the purpose of your visit before the next floor". i.e., I'm a certified auto mechanic with 15 years experience repairing, installing and re-building foreign and domestic vehicles. I have experience in supervising a team of 5 mechanics, and am flexible in work schedule .

4.) Company Name and Description: If a company is recognizable write only the company name. However, if it is not well known or you are trying to make an industry switch..a brief detail like plastic manufacturer may help. The more obscure or specialized the company, the more title becomes important. List what you need the recruiter to see, but don't go into too much detail

5.) Titles: Make sure each role has a title or a brief description if the company or title is obscure

6.) Accuracy: If you aren't sure, check with your former employer or on your tax documents--know what dates, or titles, or reason you left.

7.) Specific: Don't apply to a software engineer if you aren't a software engineer. This will get you tossed in the out pile, and may hurt you later when a job aligned with your skills opens up. Make sure you read the posting, role, or company need--don't send a resume blindly--adapt your results around the need, highlighting similarities, and recognizing gaps. Also, have a contact, a position, or a request(intent) in mind. i.e., sending for an informational interview

8.) Approach (Technology vs. HardCopy): If the company requires you apply online--do so. Hard Copy resumes may go in the shredder. However, if its a local business without any technology at hand....garage, etc...then go in person, or mail a copy of your resume.

9.) Contact information: Full Name, and telephone number is mandatory. Email can be used if its relevant, home address is often required. Note: If the job listing notes that only local candidates will be considered, make sure you are local or have a local address.

10.) READ and Approve: Make sure you read the entire resume before sending it, have it proofread, but more importantly make sure you are comfortable with every detail on your resume and it describes you, your accomplishments and what you are open to consider.