We solicited the comments of recruiting and human resources professionals to get an idea of their thoughts on the resumes they review. Some common themes arose among the diverse views of professionals from varied industries and employment fields, including the following:

• Tailor your resumes to job descriptions, and customize your resume and cover letters to match specific jobs. Use keywords specific to fields and functions and wording that appeared in the announcement. Omit information not relevant to your stated goal, or to the position you are applying for. When possible, include specific skills, including computer competencies.

• Note accomplishments that are target specific, addressing “so what” issues that are raised during screening as well as interviews. Inform readers what past accomplishments have to do with the specific job. Allow focused achievement presentations to enhance the possibility that your resume is placed in the “yes” pile.

• The resume is as important as the cover letter and vice versa. Customize both and show that you understand and that you can appropriately use field-specific concepts and words. Be detailed and factual.

• Be prepared to use your resume as an interview tool and be ready, when asked, to expand upon entries. The resume should be used by both employers and candidates during interviews.

• Use a format that allows easy accessibility to you; include home phone, cell phone, and e-mail address.

• The idea that one resume can fit all needs is crazy. Create target-specific versions as needed.

• Use bold and bullets, as well as special headings and order of importance to highlight.

• Gain focus and share focus. Remember, focus, focus, focus is the key!

Every recruiter has different preferences, but these tips give you some insight into how they view resumes and determine who to interview. This perspective is useful in crafting your resume so that it carries the message you want it to and appeals to human resources professionals.