Describe the nature and scope of your previous positions. A resume is not a list of job descriptions but rather a tool to help the employer determine whether you have the experience to meet their needs. Summarize your key roles and specifically identify the skills and talents you utilized in those roles. Remember: a potential employer wants to know what you can do for them.

Start with your most recent history and work backwards. Determine how far to go back based upon what is applicable to the position for which you are applying.

Look at many different resumes to become comfortable with conventional resume formats, but don't get stuck trying to fit your presentation into a format that was created for someone else.

Give your presentation an up-to-date style that attracts attention. Simple, conservative distinction will set your resume apart from the rest; do not use excessively fancy fonts, creative logos, or outrageous paper. Choose a font that is simple and easy to read, and print your resume on quality paper in white, ivory, or light gray.

Proofread your resume carefully. Consider your audience and use appropriate vocabulary. Ask several other people to review it for content, spelling, grammar, and tone before you provide it to any potential employers.

Avoid large paragraphs. Resumes that are too lengthy may not be read.

Don't use more than two fonts, and choose fonts that are easy to read. Being conservative with the typeface also means limiting your use of italics and bolding. Don't use any font smaller than 10-point type.

Keep your resume clean, concise, and easy on the eye. White space is important.

Use an excellent printer. Sloppy printing immediately creates a negative impression on the reader.