How to Write a Professional Resume
No one document holds as much importance to gaining employment as a professional resume. Generally, no matter how many jobs you apply for, the resume does not change. Surprisingly, many people spend little time perfecting their resume. A few simple steps and ideas can transform your resume and help you gain employment.
First: Deciding what to put in...
If you have worked since you turned 16, then chances are you have had quite a few jobs, but if you want a job as a stockbroker, the position you held as a grill cook when you turned 18 is not too relevant. On the other hand, do not eliminate jobs and leave a large gap in the employment record. A two year gap raises some eyebrows.
Second: Details
Do not write an epic about each position. Limit it to the name and location, job title, years worked and a bullet list of responsibilities. Keep that list to skills relevant to the new job. When asked about leaving these jobs, try to put a positive spin on everything. Do not slip and say you left a job because a boss "was an idiot." That also raises some eyebrows.
Third: Extra information
Some people add extra skills and hobbies at the end of the resume, which works fine, but make sure an employer cares about them. Computer skills remain important, but do not mention that you played World of Warcraft for the last eight years. If you know languages, great, then share that, but do not tell them you know Spanish if you took it in high school for three semesters.