If you need help proofreading a resume or even getting started putting it together, there are resources that can help. Many public libraries offer free resume and job search help. Many adult education centers and community centers can help, too. There are also online resume review services that you can find with an internet search.
Free online resume checkers can also tell you if your resume is “ATS ready.” ATS, or applicant tracking system, is a term for automated systems many large companies use to sort large numbers of applications before a human ever sees them. These systems may automatically reject resumes that are not in the preferred format or missing important keywords.
The right keywords can be very important even if you are not applying to large companies that use ATS programs. Pay attention to the words used in job postings. Using those terms in your resume and cover letter will let the potential employer know that you are a good match for the position.
While job postings sometimes contain a wish list of experience or qualifications that you might not have, focusing on the parts that you do have helps you stand out as a good candidate. If you have manufacturing experience but a job listing refers several times to production work, make sure to use that term to describe your experience.