Preparing an effective resume isn't easy

Preparing an effective resume is not as simple a task as many believe. Job seekers frequently make mistakes, one of which is not providing enough information. For example, simply saying that, as a claims processor, you "process claims" - which some actual candidates have done - doesn't provide prospective employers any insight into your on-the-job contributions. Offering an epic list of every minor task you tackle can be equally problematic. The key is to write a succinct sentence or two outlining your main responsibilities, weaving in your most noteworthy achievements. For some roles, it may be necessary to use brief bullet points to highlight additional accomplishments. Here's an example:"JOB DUTIES: Director of New Media. Successfully developed and oversaw digital marketing initiatives to increase consumer awareness, drive online sales and strengthen the company's global brand. Newly created blogs and revamped website led to a 40 percent increase in web traffic in just six months."These job seekers weren't as effective at explaining their duties and accomplishments:"JOB DUTIES: Good grief! What don't I do?"You tell us."JOB DUTIES: Car rental representative. Drove cars from garage into agency."We hope you had a good insurance policy.This next applicant, who's been in the professional workforce for many years, erred by describing a job he held in high school instead of focusing on his more recent and relevant experience:"JOB DUTIES: Dressed up as characters and tried to persuade people to come into the store by waving, dancing and twirling signs."We'll give you a call before our next company party.Finally, this multitalented paralegal left us thoroughly perplexed:"JOB DUTIES: Responsible for keeping accurate legal documents and inoculating all cows who were on medication."For more Resumania, and to submit samples you've come across, visit www.resumania.com. Keep the Resumania coming. Examples can be sent to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International, 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif., 94025, or faxed to 650-234-6998.Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International, a specialized staffing firm, and author of Managing Your Career For Dummies(r) and Job Hunting For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition. His most recent book is Human Resources Kit For Dummies(r), 2nd Edition.????????2