What's necessary for an effective executive resume? While standard criteria for all resumes apply here (correct wording, structure, and format) there are specific qualities hiring agents look for when evaluating business leaders. Utilize these tips to maximize your response rate when submitting to executive positions:

1) IDENTIFY YOUR PERSONAL BRAND

Carefully review your work history. What successes leap out? Do you have a track record of building high-performance teams, improving core processes, or maintaining top-tier Quality standards? Create a 3-4 line "Summary" and place it at the very beginning of your resume. This creates a clear point-of-entry for readers, and builds interest in delving into your work history.

2) FOCUS ON UNIQUE RESPONSIBILITIES IN YOUR WORK HISTORY

Did you participate in ongoing initiatives? Strengthen communication channels? Did you implement best practices, or expand existing client relationships? These are examples of UNIQUE job responsibilities, which should be placed in a succinct paragraph at the beginning of every credit. Avoid elements taken for granted, such as maintaining documentation, participating in meetings, etc.

3) STRESS SUCCESSES WHEREVER POSSIBLE

Real-world RESULTS are the most powerful currency you possess. Every position should contain a "Representative Accomplishments" section or similar where you list, bullet by bullet, what you achieved. Keep it simple and to the point. Include metrics wherever possible.

4) UNDERSTAND THE NEEDS OF YOUR INDUSTRY

Research is crucial in crafting a resume. What skills are currently in-demand within your industry? How can you effectively present them within your resume? Consult with fellow professionals, recruiters and industry experts to glean an in-depth understanding of these trends. The time spent doing this will pay for itself several times over by shortening the duration of your job search.

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.