Why is the resume SO important?

It is important because the employer has no idea who you are. It represents you. You can't be there to speak for yourself, so your resume has to do that in a clear and interesting way. 

Your resume gives you an opportunity to meet the employer face to face. That's why it has to be a professional piece of work. Present your personal information in a way that makes YOU a person of interest to employers! A resume can either get your foot in the door or get a door closed in your face. Write the best one you can and you'll likely find yourself with your foot in several doors.

Here are a few additional resume tips to consider when writing your resume:
 
1. Keep your statements to one or two sentences. Anything longer than that and the person reading your resume may lose interest.
 
2. Effectively use the "white space" on your page. Guide the reader down the page, providing an occasional break for the eyes.

3. Collect the information you need before actually writing the document itself. Prepare, plan, then place your accomplishments on paper.

4. Your entire employment history does not need to be listed. Only note the most current positions you have held.

5. Write professionally, avoiding jargon or slang.

6. Revise, revise, revise. Make your resume work for YOU.