Proofread

Have two or three people check your resume for content and spelling before you send it. Even the simplest typos or grammatical misuse can be the difference between an employer considering your application or discarding it immediately. Your proofreaders should get a clear understanding of your skill set and its application to the role for which you sending the resume. Your proofreaders may also be able to point out things you may have overlooked, or that you might not have thought were relevant.

Keep It Short

Limit your resume to two pages. Remember it is meant to interest potential employers enough to grant an interview where you can elaborate on your skills and employment history.

Layout

This can be handled in two ways. If you choose to list your relevant work experience, do so in reverse chronological order, and lay out your job titles/headings in boldface type. Alternatively, format your resume to reflect your skill set as opposed to where you’ve worked. Your headings should still be boldface type, but will reflect your skills as opposed to where you honed them. You can always include a brief work history later in the document.

Be Concise

Position titles don’t always reflect job content. Spell out your responsibilities emphasizing your achievements in each role. Try to keep job descriptions to 3-5 sentences. Write job descriptions in easy to understand terms, and as completely as space allows.

Quantify Achievements

Mention major accomplishments that emphasize your successes, providing measurement data to reinforce these achievements if available. Use action verbs to start each sentence (i.e.: designed, organized, built, developed, coordinated, earned, analyzed, established).

Be Accurate and Honest

Ensure all dates and information are correct, and do not misrepresent your educational achievements or professional credentials as reference checks often turn up inconsistencies, and this may cost you a job offer.

Provide Other Relevant Information

Include your software proficiency, bilingualism and other special skills. Also, describe your part-time jobs, community volunteer work and professional awards that show off your expertise, enthusiasm and dedication.

Cover Letter

When emailing your resume, include a brief cover letter in the body of your email instead of attaching it as a separate document, this helps to increase the likelihood that it will be read.