Want to set yourself apart from other job applicants? Your resume is your best opportunity. Here are a few tips to help you create a professional resume that highlights your strengths and achievements.

Be succinct. A longer resume does not automatically equate to a better resume. If your resume is too lengthy, your main strengths and achievements can get lost in the sea of words!

Tell us why you are the best candidate for the job. Think about what the company will view as an asset and focus on highlighting the experience that applies to the job you are seeking. Make sure to include any personal and professional skills that will set you apart from the competition. Remember, you should never overstate your abilities.

Include your contact information. Your name, address, phone number and email address should be listed at the top of your resume. This contact information should be the easiest and most up-to-date way to reach you.

Proofread your resume several times. Typos make negative first impressions. Try reading the words in reverse order to look for errors that spell check won’t catch (such as “their” versus “there”). Once you feel confident that it is error free, ask a friend to proofread it for you.

Bring several copies of your resume to an interview. You may meet with more than one person.