Resumes remain the basic starting point for your job search.

While there are new ways to get your information to prospective employers — a LinkedIn profile, a personal blog, your Facebook page, networking events, etc. — the resume still is a necessity. Employers use resumes to narrow the list of candidates they call in for an interview. Your resume is often the ticket into the interview. Use it to show why you are the best candidate for the job.

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Master the Basics ​

Start your resume strong with a clear objective that highlights your main qualifications for the position. For every job you’ve held, list in a concise manner:

• The company name and time worked at the organization

• Job title along with primary skills, duties and responsibilities

• Additional skills and responsibilities you brought to the job

• Accomplishments using results and numbers when possible

• Any additional qualifications and technical skills relevant to the job opening

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Pay Attention to Details

Employers scan resumes for specific criteria. Include details they want to see, including:

• Skills for a specific job, including keywords from the job listing

• Specific levels of work experience

• Reliability by listing dates of employment at each company

• Leadership and initiative by listing leadership roles and examples of initiative

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Create a Digital Footprint

Set yourself apart by breaking free of the format everyone else is using and taking advantage of online tools. Fortunately, there are digital resume services that can help tune up a resume for a digital format without any special coding or technical skills. Here are some of those tools that will help you dazzle employers with your digital resume.

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Be Focused and Concise

Don’t include unnecessary information or personal identifications (like your age or ethnicity) on your resume. Be focused on your qualifications. Keep it brief and to the point.

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Commit It to Memory

Employers will use your resume as part of the basis for your interview. Review your resume in advance and be prepared to discuss all of the qualifications, skills and work experience listed.

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Before you jump into the next phase of the job search, make sure to master the resume portion. It’s the building blocks of the rest of your career trajectory.