Appearances Count---Don,t try to save money by printing your resume on cheap copy paper instead of good quality stock.Ckeck for typos,grammatical errors and coffee stains.Use the spellcheck feature on your word processor and ask a friend to review the resume to find mistakes you might have missed.

Does Size Matter?---If your career warrents a two –page resume ,then go ahead and create a document tthat reflects the full range of your experience and accomplishments.Don,t reduce the type size to such a degree that your resume becomes difficult to read.

State Your Case--- If you are seeking a job in a field in which you have no prior experience,don’t use the chronological format for your resume.By using a functional or skills-oriented format,you can present your relevant experience and skills up front.

Truth or Consequences---Don’t fudge over dates or titles on your resumes to hide the fact that you have been unemployed,that you switched jobs too frequently or that you held low-level postions.If a propective employer conducts a bavkground check and discovers that you lied,you can kiss the job good –bye.

Put Your Best Foot Forward---Don’t simply copy the job description jargon from your company’s HR manual.to show that you are more qualified than the competition for the postions you are seeking,you need to do more than simply list your job responsibilities.Present specfic accomplishments and achievements:percentages increased,accounts expanded,awards won,etc.

No Excuses---Don’t include the reasons you are no longer working at each job listed on your resume.The phrases”Company sold”Boss was an idot”and Left to make more money” have no place on on your resume.

What Have You Done Lately?---While it is certainly acceptable to have a two –page resume,Don’t list evry single job you’ve ever held.Personnel manaders are most interested in your experience from the last 10 years,so focus on your most recent and most relevant career experience.

Don’t Get Personal---Personal information does not belong on a resume in the United States or Canada.Don’t include information on your marital status,age,race,famil or hobbies.

Target Your Audience---Don’t apply to every ad you see on Job Shop Depot.If you are not even remotely qualified for a postion,don’t apply.

No Extra Papers,--- When you send out your resume,don’t include copies of transcripts,letters od recommendations or awards,unless you are specifically asked to do so.If you are called in for an interview,you may bring these estra materials along in your briefcase for Show-and –tell.