If you are looking for a new job, you need to know the new rules of resume writing – and they are new!

Writing resumes has changed a lot in just the past few years. Executive headhunter Danny Cahill says most employers want you to apply online to make it easier for them. And if that’s the case, here are some things to consider:

• Don’t worry too much about making your resume “pleasing to the eye.” Today, your resume is likely scanned and put into a big database – so no one’s eyes really see it.

• Since your resume is not likely read by a human – don’t worry much about a cover letter – no one is going to read that either.

• You should customize a different resume for every job you apply for. Include keywords that were used in the ad because those are likely the key words they will use to pull resumes from the database.

• Be careful about “fudging” dates to cover gaps and other little white lies. Background checks are now common and cheap for employers. You will get caught in a lie.

• Stay “salary neutral.” Never volunteer what you want to make. When asked what salary you want, it’s better to say, “Right now I make $X and I am sure your offer will be a fair one.” If you ask for a salary early on - that is out of the employer’s range - you’ve lost your chance.