by Joy Mosenfelder

Created on: December 12, 2008

You're on the hunt for a job. With today's market as competitive as it is you'll need every advantage you can get. With so many people looking for work, it's tough to even get noticed. A resume, particularly a good one, can make or break your chances of getting an interview.

So what is a resume? At its most basic a resume is a snap shot of your skills and experiences, a picture of what it is about you that is valuable to an employer. A resume is a way to get noticed. In that capacity, it is not unlike the teaser for a film, or the blurb on the cover of your favorite book. A resume is your first impression, and it is important to make a good one.

Experts differ on how to structure a resume, what is essential to leave in and what is best to leave out. One thing they all agree on; short and sweet is the way to go. You really shouldn't need to go over a page. Just like a movie trailer, all you are trying to do is catch someone's eye, make them curious about the big picture. A good resume convinces the prospective employer he or she needs to ask you in for an interview, and gives him or her the means to contact you.

A resume must contain some basic elements to be effective. You should include complete contact information, including phone and email, at the very top of the document. You'll want to cite examples from your work history that are relevant for the field into which you are applying and add some bullets about your previous responsibilities. Highlight your accomplishments. Point out your strengths and skills. If you education is relevant you may want to emphasize that as well.

Additionally you may want to put an objective in your resume. An objective can signify to an employer that you are serious about your career search and indicate the direction of your long term goals. It is also your chance to get a little creative and put some sparkle in your presentation. Presentation is very important in a resume. The document should look neat. It should be easy to read, not too cluttered and flowing in a logical order. You may want to have a friend proofread the document for you before sending it out.

The sole purpose of a resume is to get you an interview. One trap people often fall into when writing their first resume is making it too detailed. A resume cannot and should not take the place of an interview. You don't want to show your whole hand from the get go. It's an open door, a preview, a hint about what is to come. A resume gives you the opportunity you need to get the job.

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