The success of your resume can assist you in obtaining the job you REALLY want at the salary you are looking for in a much shorter time span.

The Webster’s Dictionary defines a resume as a "short account of one’s career and qualifications prepared typically by an applicant for a position." Your resume should contain your abilities and achievements, as well as your specific job responsibilities.

Depending upon your work experience, a one – or two-page resume is equally effective. Three- or four page resumes just tend to bore the reader and they’ll probably miss the all-important words you’re trying to convey to them.

More and more firms are utilizing scanners to read resumes into their database. Make sure you:

*Use adequate margins (1’’ on all sides)
*Avoid boxes and unusual configurations
*Don’t use script or other fancy typefaces
*Don’t underline words
*Use black print on white paper
*Use a consistent 12-point font to ensure user readability
*Don’t add pictures, graphics or sounds to your resume
*Utilize the best quality of type the printer provides

More corporations, agencies and internet services are using KEYWORDS to match resume to positions which they are trying to fill. For instance, use Administrative Assistant instead of Secretary or Receptionist.

Keep these thoughts in mind as you begin developing your resume:

*Sell yourself. Create a good first impression by highlighting skills and abilities appropriate to the position.
*Use ACTIVE language. Use present tense verbs like MANAGE, DEVELOP, to describe your current position and past tense verbs like COMPLETED, SAVED, for former positions.

Here are a few helpful tips on how to structure your resume.

Center your full name, address and where and when you can be reached.