Writing your resume is a mandatory step in your job search. If you want it to go quickly at least as quickly as possible and smoothly, then there are guidelines that you might want to adhere to.

Resume writing is not rocket science but it is difficult. Anyone can put together a document with dates, companies and tasks associated with each one. But not anyone can actually write an effective resume.

Why do job seekers fear the resume?

Maybe its simply because they know that if its not up to par (and beyond), then their chances of getting a job are slim. At least a job they really want.

What are your reasons?

They most likely include the above reason as well as many others. One reason is simple because you dont like to write; to be more exact, you dont like to write resumes.

Understandably so. You cant inject a lot of personality into your resume. Its pretty much facts, figures and you putting forth your best effort to show why youre perfect for that particular job. If you think about, its really not an easy task.

I know, Im supposed to be encouraging you, right? Well, thats coming dont worry. I just wanted to take a moment to instill a bit of realism so that you can appreciate the power of your resume.

Get your head in the game

Its imperative that you take this seriously. If you brush off your resume like its no big deal then employers will think its no big deal to dump your resume. See how that works?

So while youre sitting down to start thinking about your resume, get excited. Think about how great it would be to be in a job you love with a higher salary, more perks and a better company morale. That excitement believe it or not will help carry you thru the writing of your resume.

Time to put away the modesty

Its difficult for some people to write about themselves and not downplay their achievements. That spells doom for a resume and the respective job search that goes along with it. Your resume will fail if you are modest to the point of not showcasing all the high achievements that makes you a catch for that employer.

Now, I dont want this to be misconstrued into something about over exaggerating and lying. That is not okay. There are so many ways an employer can find out the truth that its not worth the risk. Besides, can you imagine how foolish youll feel if you get the job and are expected to be fluent in something that you know nothing about? Youll lose respect from your supervisor, not to mention your co-workers. Its just not worth it.

If tooting your own horn is an issue, you have to get over it. Pronto. This is your career youre talking about.

So, are you ready to really start working on your resume? Its just about time to get down to business. Stayed tuned for Part 2 where Ill discuss how to flush out all your achievements even when you dont think you have any.

Recognized as a leading expert in the employment search industry, Heather Eagar is passionate about providing working professionals with current, reliable and effective job search tools and information. If you are considering a resume service, check out reviews of the top companies in the industry at http://www.ResumeLines.com