In today's job market it is imperative that the job seeker understand and incorporate the proper changes to their resume for the desired results. Unfortunately while some things remain tried and true this is no longer the case with resume writing. What once was the standard format and typical resume, hand delivered or mailed to the prospective employer, returning the desired results, is now outdated and ineffective. I have seen hundreds of resumes that all look alike. The answer to my question to those jobseekers when I ask why, is the typical response of that being the format and resume style that they were taught in college and graduate school.

Well, the world has changed. Now more than 90% of resumes submitted on line (right there is the number one change!) go into an Applicant Tracking System aka ATS and the single most important thing needed on that resume is Key Buzz Words followed by a great format and presentation. If you want to get the best results possible, include Key Buzz words that are industry related and used in their proper context, choose an attractive format and add a dash of conservative color to help your resume stand out and be remembered without being over the top.

The second most important fact to getting your resume to deliver the desired results is to make sure that you include a cover letter. The cover letter should match format and style of the resume, include strong selling points and be personalized for each job application. All of these changes will give you the results needed to further your career pursuits. So out with the old and in with today's resumes!