Listen up, folks – nobody has to tell you it is a tough job market out there, but there are ways to cut through and land a position in your career of choice. But first, why don’t we take a look at your current resume?

Your resume is your calling card. In most cases, the human resources department and your prospective boss will see it, before they ever see you. That piece of paper can be your best foot forward, or bury you before you get that all-important interview. There are certain steps you can take to insure your resume winds up on the top of the pile, so lets get started.

• First of all, read the job posting carefully – look for any clues than might give you insight into the qualities or experience they are looking for in this position.
• Now look at your current resume – have you accurately and concisely articulated that your skill set matches the requirements of the job posting?
• Be direct, concise and precise. Use ‘active’ rather than ‘passive’ language, and avoid using “I” or “me”.
• If you are putting your resume together for the first time, visit some on-line sites for ideas and format.
• Proof read and double check to make sure all contact and reference information is accurate and there are no typos or misspellings.
• If you are a recent college or trade school graduate looking for your first break, stress your education and training preparation. And consult your school’s career counseling office for advice.
• If a cover letter is called for, make it short, use correct business formatting, but don’t hesitate to use the opportunity to stress an area of your experience that might give you a leg up.
• Never, ever put anything on your resume that isn’t 100 percent accurate!

It is important to remember that the majority of today’s employers are looking for job candidates who demonstrate good communication skills. Make sure your resume and cover letter reflect your ability to get your point across in smart, concise, accurate language.

And anther reminder to all you job seekers; in the world of resumes, one size does NOT fit all – be prepared to tweak your current resume on a regular basis – and even consider having a couple of different version drafted ‘just in case’. For instance, if you’ve just gotten your diploma in business administration, think about the language strategy you might use for an opening in the health care field, versus a possibility in public relations or a manufacturing corporation. You get the drift.

So don’t be intimidated by those unemployment statistics. Whether you’re writing your first resume or giving your old one a much-needed face-lift, take a look at the available resources, and get busy – and get a job!