Ideally you wouldn't have to if you are using Personnel to find you a job or search for that career opportunity.

Failing that, you must understand that the RESUME is you're only selling tool - the only means by which a company can decide whether to see you or not.

Most Personnel Managers as opposed to Recruitment Consultants will use either a written or mental check list to see if a Candidate meets the job on offer. Time is always a factor and so is luck. By planning, preparing and writing a good RESUME you can increase your luck and encourage a busy recruiter to look and read it.

Depending on time an excellent RESUME will:

Always be honest
Never lie on a RESUME it can cost you the job

If a job advert includes a skill required that you do not possess, include in your cover letter your desire to learn this skill. This way you confront the obstacle head on with a positive answer.

Always Proofread
A spelling mistake, improper word use or a typo will cost you the interview.

List Your Skills
Do not write lengthy prose, people will not have the time to read it.

List Your Jobs and Dates
Always start with your most recent position and recently acquired skills

Keep Education to a Minimum
Unless a string of qualification is necessary for the position - a simple list of quals, dates and schools attended is sufficient.

Do List Hobbies and Interests
There is debate over this - however, list honest hobbies not cool ones- if you have never been surfing don't include it.

Profile
Profiles are usually included in the beginning of a RESUME whereby you can attempt to describe your personality in less than 20 words.

The problem with profiles is that they eventually will all sound the same, ie I can work on my own initiative, enjoy working within a team, have excellent communication skills, ....etc....