Resumes require 3 sections for maximum impact: a powerful opening, a targeted work history, and a succinct closing (or listing of educational credits, certifications, etc.). Diving into your most recent position without an opening denies a reader an entry point into the nuts-and-bolts of your work history. Here are ways to create an effective opening, and guarantee close analysis of your resume:

1) KEEP IT SIMPLE

The most effective resume openings are ones that entice a reader with key skills, but don't overwhelm with too many details. Think in terms of a 3-5 line paragraph DEMONSTRATING key skills instead of merely listing them. For example, a candidate seeking a Sales Manager position could list things such as developing new territories, building lasting client relationships, and expanding staff capabilities through hands-on training and mentoring.

2) KEEP IT FOCUSED

Listing HR successes is of little use if you're seeking a Quality Assurance role. Identify the types of positions you're seeking with the resume, and gear every line of the opening towards stressing in-demand skills.

3) AVOID "BULLET OVERKILL"

The place for bullet points is when listing successes within your actual work history, NOT in the opening. Doing so increases clutter, and saps interest in exploring further.

4) AVOID LISTING COMPANY NAMES OR SPECIFIC METRICS

An opening functions best as an OVERVIEW, not as a miniature resume. Do not include specific metrics or names of individual companies. Instead, identify the skills utilized for these successes, and include them.

5) INCLUDE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS AND AWARDS

It is critical to establish credibility right off the bat. For example, a Project Manager with a PMP certification should call attention to it in the first line of the opening, along the lines of, "Top-producing PMP who has spearheaded critical initiatives..." Awards related to the type of position you're seeking should also be included.

Anish Majumdar is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Owner at http://resumeorbit.com. 95% of clients report a significant increase in interviews within 30 days, and all work comes backed by a 100% Satisfaction or Money Back Guarantee (in writing).

Please submit your existing resume (as an attachment) to anish(at)resumeorbit.com for a FREE CRITIQUE spanning structure, language, and content.