How to make a effective resume

An effective resume should:

Address the employers' needs. Employers hire people who can fill their specific needs. Communicate that you are that person. At this point, you shouldn't even be thinking about your needs, wants, or desires...I guarantee you the employer isn't!

I Show employers how they will benefit. Stress your accomplishments and show employers you're an excellent prospect with talents to spare. Provide results-oriented data that proves you've handled previous jobs well and have consistently contributed to the success of every com­pany, group, or club with which you've associated.

I Be clear and concise. Employers sort through piles of resumes daily and typically devote 30 seconds or less to each one. Make your presen­tation clear, concise, and easy to read.

4 Be targeted. Your resume should communicate a well-defined objec­tive tied to a specific career (even if you don't actually include a "Job Objective").

I Support your promises of performance with reasons why you are the best applicant. Clearly present your skills and qualifications.

4 Be realistic. It should describe a person qualified and suited for the particular career it has targeted. Shy introverts should not try to present themselves as killer salespeople; anal-retentive accountants should not be seeking creative jobs at the trendiest ad boutique.

4 Be honest. Many of you may be tempted to make that one short-term job—from which you were fired—effectively "disappear" from your resume by "adjusting" time spent at a previous and/or subsequent job. Or you will shamelessly inflate a low-level position into a fancier sound­ing title with greater responsibilities. The truth will out. Be careful.

I Organize your job search. A good resume helps you focus on your accomplishments and career goals. It also helps organize your thoughts for potential job interviews. Once you've taken stock of yourself, and realized all you've achieved and what you have to contribute, you will enter the job interview and networking process with much more confidence.