You are about to finish college and it's time to start thinking about that first resume. For many entry-level jobs, a good resume is the key to opening the door. Knowing what to include and what to leave out will help you build a college resume that distinguishes you from your fellow classmates.

Research
Resumes are not one-size-fits-all. If you are applying for a specific position, your resume should be tailor-fit to that job. When sending a mass mailing of resumes to potential employers, broadly customize them to target individual industries. The only way to effectively personalize your resume is to learn all you can about those companies and industries to which you will be sending your resume. Spend some time doing basic research so your resume will demonstrate a fundamental understanding of the needs of that company or industry.

Organize And Write
Start by listing your name and contact information at the top of the page. Confirm that the phone and email addresses are correct. If you have a cute or provocative email address, consider registering for a more professional address at one of the many free email sites available online. Under your contact information, write an objective statement that focuses on how you will help the company achieve its business goals.

Use your research to demonstrate some knowledge of the company or industry. After that, organize the rest of the information from the most important to the least. For a recent or soon-to-be college graduate, that means putting your education next. At this point in your career, your education is your best asset. Include the name of the school, its city and state, your graduation date, your major and your minor. Include your grade point average if it is at least 3.0 or higher.

Next, write an experience section. For most recent college graduates, prior work experience may not directly apply to the positions sought. However, every job should provide some lesson or skill that can be applied to a future career. List jobs and emphasize accomplishments and responsibilities that demonstrate leadership, creativity and dependability.

Close your resume with a section on special skills. Include any organizations of which you are a member, honors or recognition you have received, and special events in which you have participated. Highlight aspects directly relevant to the field or that demonstrate leadership abilities.

Format
College students or recent graduates should be able to write a resume that is no longer than one page. For those with a more extensive work history, including internships or industry-related jobs, a longer resume may be required. However, two pages should be the limit. When considering the layout of your resume, try different formats to see what best fits you.

Always remember your audience. If you are applying for jobs in the banking industry, keep the layout simple and direct. If you are applying for jobs in the advertising industry, you might want to be a little more creative in your design. However, the most important goal is for the information to be clear and concise and to demonstrate how you will help this company achieve its goals.

Finally, proofread, proofread and proofread again. Typos and misspellings may be the difference between your resume being added to the interview pile or tossed in the trash can.