If you've been laid off recently, or fear it is only a matter of time, protect yourself now by writing a resume that will stand out. What will separate you from the pack of other hungry job seekers?

You really do have 15 seconds to make a great first impression on any hiring manager. Can your resume do it? Can it survive the daily drill of passing other applicants by based on its structure and keywords? No matter if you are looking for janitorial work or upper management, here are 5 helpful tips for creating a recession proof resume:

1. Action Words. Yes, some companies scan for certain words, but it is all important to have a highly effective resume written so that even human eyes will be drawn to the words to see what you can do. Don't list responsibilities; everyone knows what a secretary or teacher does. Show off, your talents, and show off your achievements. But do it with ACTION!

2. Minimize but Stand Out. Make sure your resume looks amazing. Smooth, sleek, and professional. Utilize the space on your page appropriately and take advantage of a streamlined look to draw attention to the things you want to show off. Avoid crazy colors.

3. Appropriate Resume Length. 1-2 pages.... In most cases. You do not typically want 3 unless, there is something so spectacular about your work history, you just have to shout it from the roof tops. If it has to be longer, be sure to compartmentalize the areas so the person reading knows where to look for what info.

4. Personalization. Be the candidate who truly wants that position and not just another regular Joe looking for another job. Use effective words from their ads, to gear yourself into the kind of person they are seeking. Bring out your go-getter personality and really make the resume YOU!

5. Timing. If applications and resumes are due in on a Friday, don't wait until Thursday or Friday morning to get a resume written or write it yourself. Bad, bad, bad! Be prepared ahead of time. Have a current up to date resume ready to go at all times and be able to be an early candidate.

With these few bits of resume advice, you can easily transform your current resume with one that works. Good luck!