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Writing a resume is a difficult process because it requires a specific set of skills that we do not all possess and because it demands that we look at ourselves and our past accomplishments from an objective standpoint. That being said, following are 5 resume writing tips that, if you decide to implement, will help you improve your resume substantially:

1) Take the time to look back at your career accomplishments and put things in perspective. Try to recollect what you did, go through projects that you have done, look at memos you wrote, brainstorm, etc.

2) Only apply to positions that you really want. If you don't really want a job, you will subconsciously not put in the effort to prepare a good application. Also, applying to fewer jobs means that you can spend more time tailoring each application that you send out.

3) Structure your resume by being clear in terms of how you present your qualifications and by putting in evidence the skills that are most relevant to the position. Recruiters have a very short attention span. In other words, they are very impatient (and therefore "picky"). The last thing they want is scratch their heads wondering what you are trying to convey or thinking why they should hire you. Whether or not you should be called for an interview should jump out at them.

4) Always include a 'Summary of Qualifications' at the beginning of your resume where you will make your sales pitch.

5) After you are done with the first draft of your resume, take some distance and come back on it a few hours or a day later. This will give you a fresh perspective on what you wrote and will allow you to notice mistakes you may not have noticed before.

If you implement the above suggestions, you will find your resume substantially improved. Good luck in your job search!