Would you walk 8000 steps per day if you knew that you should walk 10,000 to acquire maximum health benefits? Most would say no. The same question could be asked in relation to your resume. Would you send out a resume that is mediocre, when you know that employers will only look at a resume that is eye-catching and has all the qualifications?

Getting the job of your dreams will, in most cases, start with the resume you send to the potential employer. Paying attention to the fine details can make or break the "first impression" that your resume may need to catch the eye of the potential employer. The first step of getting an interview is a great resume. Below are some tips to help you impress your potential employer when writing your resume.

The Cover Letter:

Cover letters are important and sometimes mandatory for your applications. In some cases where employers receive hundreds of resumes, cover letters are rarely read. Because of this, make sure all of your important work details are written in your resume because some potential employers will only look at the resume and not the carefully-written cover letter.

The Resume:

• Purpose or Opening Statement - Always open with the purpose of your resume or what you are looking for in a position with the particular company or position of choice.

• Skills - Include a skills section. Read over the job description or posting for the particular position that you are applying for. Highlight your resume in this section with the skills required for the position and ensure that you include those posted in the job posting.

• Work Experience - Include all relevant previous work experience. Include your past 5 years work history plus any other relevant work experience. Include 5-10 years (based on amount of positions) including dates, company and key tasks related to the position you are applying for. Include other related work experience in smaller form as it relates to the position you are applying for.

• Education - Include education in your resume if the position requires it or where it is relevant.

Always tailor your resume to the particular position you are applying for. With each position you will need to modify key areas of work experience that you have acquired and highlight these based on the job posting.

Seek employment centers to assist with updating your resume. This will benefit any persons who are new to the workforce after many years without an updated resume. Electronic is the best way to send a resume. Always attach your resume and additionally copy and paste it to the body of your email to ensure that it goes to the potential employer. Blind carbon-copy the resume back to you to ensure it is sent and save it in an inbox file.

Remember that the more you know about the benefits of a well-written resume, the better. Always apply to a job with a “can do” attitude and seek professional advice if you need assistance with getting that amazing job. In all cases, you have to help yourself in being successful!