Most people write their own resumes, others get professional help. However, it is easy to understand how to write a resume and successfully win a coveted position.

When writing a resume, it should include (in this order):

Name

Address

Phone number (s)

Email address

career objectives

summary of your highlighted achievements/experiences

Employment history: final position held, company name, dates of employment (years only), and bullet form-brief outline of valuable/related skills, responsibilities, training and major achievements; always use action words to start points (i.e. responsible for, directed, marketed, achieved, etc.)

Qualifications/education/memberships/certifications/seminars, etc. - qualification name, institution of study and dates of study (years only)

interests - extra-curricular activities

A good resume does not include personal opinions, sexual/family orientation or any details that are not relevant to the position (s) being applied for. If varied positions or industries are being sought then it is important to tailor a separate resume for each one. However, resumes should be kept to about 2 to 3 pages maximum, unless you have done contract work.

Other things that should not be included or used when writing a resume include:

Graphics/pictures
trange fonts - always use Verdana or Times New Roman
Fonts that are too small or large - always use 12 point
Specific software, equipment or other things used unless absolutely applicable
Colored paper
Colored fonts - use black only

Always remember that a good resume should make you stand out from other candidates. Most employers or recruiters are overloaded with resumes and so if your resume does not catch their attention within the first sixty seconds of reading, you can guarantee that you will not get an interview.

The best approach when writing a resume is to research the company (s) that you are sending your resume to. This will help you assess what skills you possess that they might need or what you have that they could consider as an asset. First impressions are everything when job hunting, so ensure you avoid using any unnecessary jargon, excess wordage or irrelevant information.

You can learn how to write a resume by asking yourself questions as if you were an interviewer. By learning what a company does and is looking for, you can avoid sending resumes for positions that you are not qualified to do. Resume writing can be an easy task if you know how!

Greg Heslin is a best selling career advice and "street smart" tips author on how to survive in the 21st Century workplace. To learn more about FREE cutting edge career tips and techniques, you can visit his web site at http://www.My-New-Career.com