Length
 
Employers prefer one-page resumes.  Two pages are acceptable when the employment history is over ten years.
 
Career Summary
 
A Career Summary can be useful as the first item on a resume, but it should not be lengthy – limited to about four lines.  The Summary should emphasize the career growth from the start to the present without much detail of individual jobs.  Most employers want to see growth in the individual’s business skills, because they want to hire persons who show the ability to grow with their jobs.  Be certain to show in the Career Summary the existence of post graduate degrees and/or business academic degrees that have been earned.
 
Job Entries
 
The entries of past/present jobs should concentrate on the career development learning and experiences, along with the basic job functions which should be stated in the broadest possible terms.  Each career job entry should be as concise as possible.  Highlight the key functions, rather than listing all of them.  The last job or two should be elaborated upon the most, with the oldest or early career jobs being described more briefly.  Always proof read for spelling and punctuation two or three times slowly.

Mailing Resumes
 
When mailing resumes, try to use a good grade of slightly off-white paper stock with matching envelope.  No fancy font!  Make calls to the employer location to identify the correct name of any individual to address the cover letter.  If no name can be identified, use specific generic titles such as Human Resources Manager, Claims Manager, etc.
 
Miscellaneous Information
 
In order to keep the resume focused and concise, leave out personal hobbies, family information and other information not related to the career field.
 
Presentation
 
The paper resume should be on the best grade of paper and matching envelope, when placed in the mail.  Do not use fancy or unusual font. 
 
Grammar and Spelling
 
Grammar and spelling are highly important.  Poor grammar and spelling mistakes will doom a resume to the trash basket.