How to Write a Great Resume

There are three keys, as I see it, to readying a resume in preparation for applying for jobs. They are:

1. Completeness
2. Applicability
3. Accuracy

The first point - completeness - is extremely important. Let's say, for example, that a job hunter has, in his or her background, a few jobs that weren't exactly "fabulous" experiences. Should they be on the resume? Of course they should, except in certain instances

For the most part, a resume should be "you," boiled down to two or three pages. It isn't your highlight package; it's not just the best dunks and most amazing shots. It is every play you've ever made; it is your work and education background. So what if one or two of the jobs didn't end the way you wanted! Put them on the resume. If you feel a potential employee would be hesitant to hire you because of what your former employer might say, be sure to mention that, and tell your side of the story.

To a potential employer, a facet of the resume that sets of alarm bells and raises questions is an unexplained gap. If you've worked in one job for the last ten years, that's excellent, and a potential employer would welcome the stability you would bring to his or her workforce. On the other hand, there's nothing wrong with having worked quite a few short-term jobs. Employers understand that not every job is perfect, and expect a certain amount of turnover.

Gaps in your work history, however, aren't good. Why wasn't the applicant working here? is what the employer will wonder. This question raises definite doubts about an applicant, which is something to be avoided at all costs.

The second important aspect of a resume is its applicability. If you've had nothing but retail jobs your life and are in the process of applying for an office job, there's nothing wrong with that. It's been said that an average American will go through 7 different careers in their lifetime, so obviously people are bouncing from one field to another. It happens, so don't be ashamed of it. Don't try to hide those other jobs.