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The last thing you want on your resume is an error, or worse, multiple errors. Use spell check, of course, but also make it a point to go through your resume word by word to ensure that it is consistent, accurate and free of unusual or unnecessary punctuation and capitalization. Once you’re certain that your resume is fault-free, look it over again. Once you’ve done that, give it to your most trusted and honest colleague or friend to review. Try to pick someone with a strong attention to detail, or someone who you know is a good writer. Ask for their honest feedback. See if they have suggestions. Be open to their input and seek additional opinions if you have the time and resources.

Steer clear of any irrelevant points or anything that may instill a tone of negativity on your resume. If you suspect that your age could somehow be a disadvantage, then don’t include year of graduation. Similarly, you need not include personal information such as gender, height, etc. If you possess skills that aren’t related in any way to the job you are applying for, leave those off as well. Try to highlight your most relevant skills in a way that meets an employers needs. To find out more about a particular company, try using a business information site like Manta.com.

Many job seekers make the mistake of trying to cram every single job-related detail onto a one-page resume by using single spacing and a size seven font, while others take a “less is more” approach and attempt to sandwich a meager skill set between two oceans of white space. You can do better than this. Use two pages if you have extensive, relevant experience or one page if you have less than 10 years of experience. And even if you are new to the employment world, you undoubtedly have skills and knowledge galore to highlight. Use a readable font and font size (no smaller than a size 10) to make sure your resume is as easy as possible for employers to read.

Make sure that your resume and cover letter contact information is up-to-date and easy to find. Include an email address that sounds professional and is checked regularly as well as a phone number that an employer can use to record a message if needed. Use a permanent address and phone number (include the area code) and avoid using nicknames or excessive abbreviation.

Modify your resume with the position description is mind. Research the company (use a site like Manta.com — which provides access to millions of free company profiles — to help you). Carefully review the details of the position and list your relevant experience accordingly. If needed, rewrite your skill descriptions to target the needs of the position/company. And remember, in the world of interviewing, you’re only as qualified as your resume says you are.