MiddletownJournal.com

Savvy job hunters tailor their resume's content to each opportunity by emphasizing the skills, attributes and experiences that most closely align with a prospective employer's specified job requirements. Use the job posting as your guide. Pay attention to the keywords included in the advertisement and mirror that language in your resume, when applicable. You might play up your "strong communication skills," "knowledge of Microsoft Office" or "ability to lead complex projects," for instance, if those specific phrases are mentioned in the want ad.

The following candidate, a geologist, focused on the wrong aspects of his work history. He should have highlighted positions he's held that relate to his field.

"JOB DUTIES: My last job was general maintenance, including mowing well sites to keep them tidy, pressure washing wells and minor reclamation of installed wells. I also painted water trucks. I really didn't do much in the way of geology."

Not an earth-shattering resume.

This accounting professional should have left out his irrelevant seasonal side job:

"JOB DESCRIPTION: Provided security for the talent in my Halloween maze and scared guests as a monster."

This resume was submitted by Frank N. Stein.

This public relations specialist also put the spotlight on an extraneous detail:

RESUME: "I am most proud of my years spent skiing in Colorado."

Any career-related accomplishments?

Instead of vague and unclear language, provide hiring managers with specifics about your work history. These candidates didn't:

"SKILLS: Relevant skills."

Should we take your word for it?

"JOB DUTIES: Retail specialist. Communicate with tourists by speaking their language."

She is particularly adept at pointing out the nearest restroom.

"JOB DUTIES: Displaying for team members how to do their jobs in a well-done manner."

Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International, a specialized staffing firm, and author of Managing Your Career For Dummies.