If you haven't updated your resume once over the past year, now is a good time to take a fresh look at your copy. Beginning with the header, is all of your information correct? How many times have I seen an old cell number or former email address listed? Plenty! You want someone to contact you, don't you? Make sure your contact information is up to date.

How about your objective? Has your job objective changed? If not, does the verbiage still hold true? Perhaps it needs to freshened a bit.

Employment history -- I am thinking that even if you did not have a promotion during the past year, some of your work tasks may have changed. If so, sparkle up your resume and put your best foot forward. Also, remove jobs that you haven't held in two decades! Most experts recommend that you show work history for the last ten years only. Remember: the job application asks for much more detailed information. Don't list everything/anything on your resume.

How about training or schooling? Are there any classes you took that you can now list? A degree secured? If so, you definitely want to include your accomplishments front and center.

References: Never, never list your references on your resume. Instead, "references furnished upon request" is all that you need to state.

Once you have updated your resume, pass it on to a highly objective friend or hiring professional who can critique it accordingly. Implement their recommendations and go with the new copy.

Even if you aren't planning to switch companies in 2006, a forced exit or even an internal promotion can mandate that a resume be furnished immediately. Why wait for an emergency; update your resume now while it is still on your mind.