Careful attention to resumes pays off

As summer winds down and students head back to school, remember the ABCs of resume writing. Whether you're drafting your first resume or updating an existing one, keep the following do's and don'ts in mind.

Do customize your resume by focusing on your skills and qualifications as they relate to each position for which you apply. You are far more likely to attract the attention of hiring managers with a targeted approach than a one-size-fits-all resume. And, unlike this next candidate, narrow your search to a specific field:

"OBJECTIVE: I am not very picky about the job I'd like."

We're looking to hire someone with a little more passion.

Don't include irrelevant personal details such as your height, weight, marital status, religious affiliation or favorite leisure pursuits.

"INTERESTS: 'Star Wars.'"

May the workforce be with you.

Do quantify your professional achievements. Whenever possible, explain how you positively impacted your firm's bottom line. For example: "Promoted to senior administrative assistant and reduced executive travel costs by 15 percent within six months."

Here's a candidate who is not as achievement-oriented:

"JOB DUTIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS: None."

What exactly did you do all day?

Don't explain in your resume why you left a previous position. Instead, address extended employment gaps in your cover letter or during the job interview, if asked.

"FORMER EMPLOYER: Plumbing company. Reason for leaving: Couldn't plumb."

His plumbing career was just a pipe dream.

Finally, do proofread your work. Your computer's spell-check program won't catch every type of error -- such as words spelled correctly but misused -- so it's important to review your resume with a fine-tooth comb. Even one mistake can cause a prospective employer to question your professionalism and attention to detail.

CLOSING LINE: "Please see attacked documents."

Don't be so hard on yourself!

Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International, a specialized staffing firm, and author of Managing Your Career For Dummies and Job Hunting For Dummies, 2nd Edition. His most recent book is Human Resources Kit For Dummies, 2nd Edition.

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