One of most effective ways to communicate value on your resume is to address burning question, "Why should we hire you?" You must identify what specific contributions (that is, verifiable accomplishments) you have made at previous employers. This critical information is proof that you can do same at your next job.

Showcasing you unique accomplishments is simultaneously simple and complex. It is simple because best contributions are somehow related to bottom line (money, profits). The challenge lies in how to reframe what you've done relative to increased profits, reduced costs, or productivity enhancements.

How can your resume show that you've helped previous organizations solve a specific problem, be more competitive, expand business, attract new customers, or retain existing ones?

---------------------------------- U = You are Unique! ---------------------------------- Your resume must be unique in content and in format. The information will be unique because, as mentioned above, you will have pinpointed those accomplishments that will set you apart from other applicants.

Unique formatting means not using those templates that came packaged with your word-processing software! A cookie- cutter resume will not do justice to you or your career. Bookstores are full of excellent resources with samples of compelling resumes to ignite your creativity.

------------------------------------ M = Market yourself ------------------------------------ A superior resume utilizes proven marketing concepts such as headlines (rather than boring objective statements). It stresses benefits you have to offer (how you can contribute), not just features (what you were responsible for).

Catch attention of prospective employers on first page with a powerfully written Profile or Qualifications Summary. Resumes are initially scanned for roughly 15 to 30 seconds. If you've lost reader's interest at top of first page, he/she will not read further. Your resume will go in "no" pile.

------------------------------------------------ E = Effectively gets you noticed ------------------------------------------------ There is no such thing as a "good" or "bad" resume. There are only "effective" or "ineffective" ones. By weaving concepts above into your resume, you can increase your odds of getting noticed by those with authority to recommend you for next step in hiring process -- a telephone, teleconference, or in-person interview.

You know you're good...real good. You are now challenged to prove it on your resume.

4. Work to eliminate negative thinking. When a negative thought comes into your mind, take a moment to think about what is beneath it. Then, tell yourself that thinking this way is not good for you. Make a decision to drop thought and try to think of something (anything) that is positive. It can be as simple as focusing on what a beautiful day it is outside, to feeling grateful that you survived current wave of lay-offs in your company. Use this technique for situations as well. Ask yourself how you can view situation differently. Try to find one positive angle or outcome that could result from an otherwise bad situation. For example, you are being laid off from your job. You have been unhappy for a long time, but could not motivate yourself to do anything about it. Now, you have motivation to look for a new job, or perhaps change careers. Think of all possibilities that could open up for you.

Negative thinking is a downward spiral that leads to negative behavior and possibly depression. Consciously choose to challenge these thoughts, and empower yourself with a more positive outlook and approach to life.

Hopefully these tips will assist you in having a better "solo" Valentine's Day than you might have been headed for. Enjoy day by doing something fun. Then focus on your relationship plan and empower yourself to build healthy, lasting relationship of your dreams.

Toni Coleman, LCSW Helping Singles Find Lasting Love www.consum-mate.com