A good resume may not get you a job, but a bad resume can prevent you from getting the interview and without the interview, there's no chance of getting the job!

The new rules for good resumes start with the fact that there are fewer rules. There's room for some creativity, but not for gimmicks. What works today are a conservative style and a focus on key achievements - especially those that relate to the particular job you are applying for. What interests an employer for a computer operator may not interest the employer hiring an accountant. It is important that people who qualify for several different jobs, have several different resumes, highlight different strengths as they relate to different job openings. However, all resumes must be accurate and truthful.

Obtaining a better job today is more competitive than in the past as better positions require more specialized skills. This trend will continue into the next century as more and more qualified people are preparing themselves for better jobs.

Since the resume is a primary resource in finding a better job, extra time spent on its preparation is a good investment. In fact, some people constantly update their resume, even though they may never have to use them to get another job. As a reminder of your talents and accomplishments, a current resume can provide you with a key to getting a better position within your present company or the tool to prove you deserve a salary increase.

The best way to explain the new "rules" of writing a winning resume is to explain the do's and don'ts of successful resume writing.