It seems obvious, but it is all too common for people to send out applications and resumes with basic grammar and spelling mistakes in them. Make sure that you use the spell-check function, and also read through to pick up any errors that it cannot correct.

Use a font that is easy to read. Don’t make it too small, and don’t add any unnecessary decoration. Your resume should look clear and business-like. Bullet points and sub-headings are useful ways of grouping and organizing information.

Address all your communications clearly and to the right person. Always use a name if you can, rather than the generic “Sir/Madam”, and make sure that it is spelt correctly.

Your own contact details should also be included, and they should be correct and current. You don’t want to miss out on a job because you used an old phone number or made a mistake in your email address. If you are including an email address then make sure it is one that sounds professional rather than funny or silly. Get a new account that is separate from your personal one, if you need to.

You will need to write a cover letter to go with your resume. This is how you will introduce yourself to your potential employer. Set it out as a business letter, and write it with as much care as you do your resume. Keep it short. Use it to point out the most important elements of your resume and how you meet the requirements described in the job advertisement. Write a new cover letter for each application rather than sending out a generic version.

Have a specific objective

Be specific and communicate clearly why you would like to be a part of the company to which you are applying and why you want a specific position.  This should be at least one concise sentence and never 3 or more.

Always list the newest first

When listing education or job experience always list your newest schools or jobs first.  Your potential employer wants to know where you’ve been recently and what skills and knowledge are freshest.

List your skills according to the objective

When you are listing specific skills that you have make certain that you list them in order to target your objective.  You may have several dozen skills, like shoeing horses for a water-polo team, but that isn’t a priority to someone who needs a staff accountant to do tax returns, so it should be lower on your list.

Hobbies, interests, clubs and awards are important

The main purpose of a resume is to sell yourself well enough to get an interview.  By including hobbies, interests, clubs and awards in your resume you can create common ground with your potential employer or agent.  It also helps create lead-in questions for a more comfortable interview.

Clean and sharp is a must

A crisp, well organized presentation that is pleasing to the eye tells an employer that you are conscientious and take pride in your appearance.  Make your resume look crisp and clean just like you will dress yourself when you go for your interview.

Cover pages must be targeted to the job

Pay attention to what the employer requests in a cover letter if required.  Put only a brief statement of your employment objective, plus the information requested; typically contact information.

Less is more

Remember the 5 minute rule.  The information on your resume should be thorough, but concise with lots of white-space for a quick read.