* Produce a professional looking product—computer generated or professionally printed, organized and easy to read. You want to make an immediate favorable impression.

* Print on good quality white, off-white or light gray paper.

* Proofread, use spell check and correct all grammatical errors—we cannot stress this point more strongly.

* Ask several friends or colleagues to proofread and comment on your resume.

* Be conservative in your use of underlining, capitalization, fancy type, italicizing and bolding. Keep your presentation simple and easy to read.

* Include personal contact information (name, address, phone number, email and fax number), a clear objective, experience (company name and location, dates employed, skills, responsibilities, achievements, etc.), industry associations and education.

* Detail your responsibilities and use industry buzzwords to catch the employer's attention. Indicate skills and training that are relevant to your job search, for instance: software/systems experience, particular management techniques practiced, personnel supervisory experience, etc.

* Use positive, action oriented words to describe your accomplishments.

* Attach specific dollar amounts, percentages or numbers to your accomplishments and achievements.

* Do not include references—list them on a separate piece of paper and submit them when asked.

* Do not include personal information such as height, weight, age and marital status.

* Limit your resume to two pages. (Yes, it can be done!)

* Include a personalized cover letter that summarizes your skills and experience, your interest in the position, salary requirements and contact information. Make sure your cover letter is enthusiastic and to the point.