Everybody knows the importance of a great resume. Without a slick well put together resume you may as well kiss goodbye to that job. Your resume is basically the key to the door, a good one will get you the interview and the chance to impress in person. A bad one will end up in the trash along with your hopes of getting the job.

So it goes without saying the resume format is also very important. You might think that is an obvious statement but you would be amazed at how many resumes I read that have no structure and no format. That's where you are going to be at an advantage, because you no how important the resume format is and you are going to take the time to do some research and put together an award winning resume. RIGHT!

OK lets talk resume format. You only get one chance to make that first impression so lets get it right. First thing to do is make a list of everything you want to include in your resume, don't edit the list at this stage just get everything down on paper. With this information you will be able to tailor make your resume for each different employer.

Resume Format.

Contact Information. (Important, we want prospective employers to be able to get in touch)

First Last Name (no problems here, so far so good)

Street Address

City, State, Zip

Objective (technically optional, but in my opinion essential)

Do not think you can write one resume objective and send it of with every job application. A resume objective must be written with the employer in mind. Tell them what you can bring to that particular job. It only needs to be a couple of sentences long but it will help you stand out from the crowd.

Career Highlights / Qualifications

This is the section that shows the employer that your skills and qualifications are just what the job requires, so tailor them accordingly. Its no good listing a whole page of qualifications detailing how great you are at playing the piano if you are going for a job as a truck driver. List key achievements, skills relevant to the position you are applying.

Experience

This is the section of your resume that details your work history. It is not essential to list every job you have ever had but spend more time on the jobs that are relevant to the position that you are applying for. It is a good idea to included a bulleted list of responsibilities and achievements for each job.

Education

This section speaks for itself. List the schools / colleges you attended and the awards / degrees you attained. Also list any special awards or honours you have achieved.

Skills

Include all skills that are related to the position or career field that you are applying for. Speak a second language? List it here. Computer or IT skills always good to list.

References

These will be checked so no making them up, you would be surprised at how many people do this thinking they are never checked. Wrong!

I find it a good idea to list your references separately, it leaves your resume looking uncluttered.

There you have it a basic resume format. Stick to it and get the job of your dreams. Remember a few hours spent on your resume is well worth the effort.