Writing a resume seems like a straightforward endeavor — until you actually sit down to create one.

Following are some guidelines for navigating some common resume quandaries:

"Should I include an objective statement on my resume?"
No, an objective statement is not necessary. Instead, consider including a short summary statement of your relevant professional skills at the top of your resume so employers can quickly get a sense of your qualifications.

"I'd like to make a career switch. How can I modify my resume to target a job in a different industry?"
Focus on your transferrable skills and consider changing your resume format to better highlight them. For example, use a combination resume to explain your strengths in relevant areas, such as communication or leadership, and downplay previous roles and responsibilities.

Also, conduct a little research into the new industry. Every field has its own language. Use keywords and phrases from the job description throughout your cover letter and resume, as appropriate, to boost your chances of grabbing a hiring manager's attention.

"I applied for a job a couple of months ago and recently saw the ad reposted. Should I submit my resume again?"
Rather than reapply, follow up with the firm to express your continued interest in the position. As long as you haven't received a rejection letter, try to find out who the hiring manager is and call or email him or her.

It's not uncommon for firms to repost a job listing. Sometimes the position's duties have changed, or the person who was hired for the role did not work out.

"I held my most recent job for just one month. Do I need to include it on my resume?"
If the position is relevant in any way to the job you are targeting, you should include it on your resume. Just know that the hiring manager will wonder about your short tenure. Address the issue in your cover letter and have some talking points ready if you are called in for an interview.

If the position is unrelated to your career path — perhaps you worked as a waiter or waitress in order to earn some extra money — you can probably leave the position off your resume.