If you're trying to find a new job, you're going to need a strong resume. The market right now is highly competitive in almost all fields and it's that resume which will either get you an interview or get you nowhere. Understanding what to look for in good examples of resumes can be a step in the right direction. Below are some pointers.

Resume Organization
The best resumes should be well-organized. You want the potential employer to be able to scan the material and know in an instant if you might be a good candidate for the job. Remember he or she is probably getting dozens, maybe even hundreds, of other resumes so they will not have time to carefully read each one initially.

While there are a number of different organization methods to use, the classic style is best for most professions. That means you should have clearly labeled sections listing your work experience, your education, your skills, and other relevant information. The individual items in each category should then be listed chronologically with the most recent information coming first.

Resume Presentation
Organization is clearly going to be a make or break issue with your resume. However, even the well-organized resume can be foiled by poor presentation. Can you imagine submitting a hand written resume? People still do but they won't land a job that way.

Your resume should always be typed, preferably using a computer and a high-quality printer. Do not skimp on your ink when it comes to printing off your resume either. If the information is hard to read, the resume will end up in the garbage. Use high-quality paper for your resume as well but avoid the vibrant colors that are so eye-catching at your local office supply store. Most of these stores carry paper in blues, grays, and ivory which would be more appropriate. Pick up matching envelopes as well.

If you've ever seen examples of resumes that are full of spelling errors and grammar mistakes, you can be pretty sure those people never landed the position they were seeking. Most employers want workers with good attention to detail. If you can't catch your own errors in your resume, then you might make important mistakes for them as well.

Resumes and What Not to Include
Although a great deal of time seems to be spent on telling people what they should include in their resume, the reverse is rarely true. However, leaving off information can be just as important.

For example, some people feel the need to list miscellaneous information about themselves, such as where they attend church, what hobbies they have, and which how long they have been married. Thankfully, you don't see this as much but there is definitely a generation out there which thinks this is perfectly acceptable and may even help them secure the job.

In some cases, personal details can make a difference. For example, if your son plays football for the employer's favorite team that might help you get the job. Even then, that tidbit of information doesn't belong on the resume.