Matching Pairs ResumeOnline version This is used as a focus activity for middle school students to help them realize what a resume is and why it is important. by Stephanie Reese 1 How long does an employer typically look at a resume? 2 What makes a "good" resume? 3 Why is a resume important? 4 What is a resume? 5 Who needs a resume? 6 How have resumes changed with technology? Less than 1 minute. You must make a great first impression. Even the tiniest mistake can mean the difference between an interview or not. A document that summarizes your skills, experience, and educational background. A resume is like an advertisement that "sells" you to an employer. It's almost always the first step to getting an interview. A resume should tell your story while demonstrating professional growth and development. It also needs to be concise. Today, resumes must be created with word processing software. Many employers now only accept resumes through email or their website. Everyone who wants a job needs a resume. It's what employers look at to find qualified employees.