I might recommend you add a "Specialized Skills" section. Then, think about the job you are looking for, and list those skills in a bulleted format.SUMMARY: James is a highly motivated individual, in search of gainful employ, with a proven ability to learn quickly, create, implement, and maintain procedures both old and new in any environment. He possesses the ability to succeed in heavy work assignments and deadlines under strict time constraints. In addition to his strong commitment and desire to succeed in every task, James is able to work independently or as a member of a team, with a strong ability to communicate effectively.
Under employment, I suggest you reverse the order of the jobs you've held. Put the most recent jobs at the top.
I also noticed the word "REFERENCES" appears above your most recent job. Double check that in your original file.
I also propose removing the references all together, and put at the end, "References available upon request".
When you hand in the resume, very politely do it like this:
Go into the place of business, and ask to speak with the hiring manager. When he arrives, don't ask if any jobs are available. Instead, hold out your resume for him to take, and say "Please take this". When he takes it, he'll wonder what this is all about, and then look him right in the eye and say, "I want a job, and this is my resume. I'd like you to hire me."
Probably the #1 thing they are looking for is someone who REALLY wants the job (without seeming desparate). That means you have to ASK FOR THE JOB at every opportunity. When the interview begins, thank them for giving you their time for the interview, and it is your desire that they will decide to offer you the job. When the interview is over, thank them for their time, and ask when you can start.
And remember this, given the short timeframes of most of your previous jobs, a prospective employer is going to be hesitant. You have that disadvantage going in, so be aware that from the perspective of the employer, they would be doing you a huge favor by hiring you. Whether you think that's fair or not, accept that reality and behave accordingly. You are at their mercy and you should go in with a humble attitude.
It's okay to have made mistakes in the past, so be honest, but for every single mistake or flaw that you tell them about, make sure you show that you LEARNED from that mistake. Errors are acceptable if the person can be shown to have learned from those errors, that almost makes mistakes a positive thing in your favor, but only if you play the cards right...
Get that resume updated and post it here again.
Oh, and print it on nice snazzy paper if you can. No smudge marks. :)
I'm looking forward to seeing the new version of the resume!