A resume introduces the candidate to the potential employer. It creates the first impression on the prospective employer in respect of the candidate's skills, qualification, credentials and background. Thus, a professionally well-written and well-organized resume may help secure an interview with the potential employer.

While preparing a resume, the focus must be on the requirements of the targeted company and your capability to fit in the position offered. The resume should be written by blending the applicant's skill sets and experience with the needs of the company. It is writing about how you can meet the needs of the particular position in the company.

There are some misconceptions about resume writing that need to be cleared up. Personnel managers do not require resumes that are physically attractive or written on fancy colorful paper. Trying to stand out among the crowd by making the resume eye-catching will not serve the purpose. The resume should not be something unusual, unique or tricky. However, if the facts are organized in a professional manner, giving details relevant to the job requirement, it will definitely impress the recruiter to call the applicant for a first interview.

Another myth that should be cleared is that giving a long list of references will secure an interview or the job. Giving a great cast of references has little effect on the chances of reaching the interview stage. Significant references may be mentioned in the resume only if the employer specifically asks for it.

The main objective of a resume is to introduce the candidate and present the skill sets, qualification, experience and credentials of the individual so that the human resource manager is impressed enough to call him for the interview. The resume should only contain that information, which is relevant to company's needs. This may include the experience of the applicant, which is advantageous for the job position. The resume should be presented in a professional manner and it should be concise and complete. Avoid writing a long account of your previous job experiences and life in general. A resume should not test the hiring official's patience by wasting his valuable time. Overloading the resume by writing about your background will not serve the purpose. It may only serve to get you out of the race even before you start.

A good, well-designed resume is the key to open the right doors to the right opportunity in the job-seeking process.

Abhishek is a Career Counselor and he has got some great Career Planning Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 71 Page Ebook, "Career Planning Made Easy!" from his website http://www.Career-Guru.com/769/index.htm. Only limited Free Copies available.