Having a professional assist you with your resume and cover letter does not cost, it pays. The purpose of a resume is to inspire the reader to call you in for an interview. Better resumes equal better interviews. Check your spelling, twice, and have a friend check the resume for errors. A cover letter should always accompany your resume when you are sending your documents through the mail.

Admit to your staff when you have made a wrong decision, because chances are they already know. Not being able to say when you are wrong diminishes your effectiveness in the work place. Managers who narrow in on the blame and refuse to admit that they are wrong are viewed by their employees as weak and dishonest. Eventually, employees lose respect for the manager and good workers move on. People openly respect a person when they are big enough to admit that they erred in some way or other.

Resumes are generally written in three basic styles (with some written with a blend of each). The most common style is called "Reverse Chronological" and employment information is presented starting with the most recent position backwards. The second most common style is called "Functional" and skill sets are emphasized with employment history understated. This style works well for the person with large gaps in employment or, frankly, with something to hide. Finally, there are times when a pure "Chronological" style, with employment history listed in order from the first position to the most current position, can be effective - particularly in the career fields of medicine and teaching.

When approaching your boss for a raise, make sure you're prepared. Keep a detailed log of your accomplishments and achievements and present them convincingly to your boss.