Whether you're called an hourly worker, nonexempt personnel, or — more traditionally — a blue-collar laborer, you may be working in an administrative, food-service, customer-service, or manufacturing position. People in these fields often do not create or update resumes that reflect their potential for continued success. Too often, when it's time to look for a new job, they depend upon applications, references, or word of mouth. Everyone needs and deserves a powerful resume. Word of mouth can be translated into words on paper, creating an effective resume that mirrors capabilities and projects a clear future focus.

People at the other end of the professional spectrum are also often guilty of overlooking their resumes. In most cases, those we call senior management have old, vague resumes or no resume at all. Though they're responsible for large operations and organizations and generally supervise many others, these people may not be as ready for the job search as they should be. However, with our culture focusing more and more on career advancement and reinvention of self, many senior leadership professionals are taking the time to keep their resumes current in anticipation of being recruited or finding new ways to use their talents and enjoy meaningful job satisfaction.

Anyone, on any rung of the job-success ladder, should use the resume-writing process to identify and articulate their goals. No matter how diverse your interests or background, creating a powerful resume will enhance your focus and effectively project your qualifications and commitment for your future performance.