For the uninitiated, it's not easy. Pay particular attention to cover letters. These individually prepared letters can illustrate a candidate's creativity, and ability to communicate and organize thoughts. If there are typos or words left out, you can get a good picture of the candidate's lack of attention to detail. The next step is yours.
Spot check each category to ensure applicants are properly categorized.
Keep in mind that a resume must capture your attention by standing out from all the others in the pile. Once it has your attention, it should then sell the candidate sufficiently to warrant an interview. Moreover, when reviewing those resumes which interest you, remember the most important factor a candidate can communicate is achievement. This gives applicants a change to sell themselves and provides you with key insights. A quick call allows the interviewer to gauge an applicant's ability to conduct himself over the phone, to summarize past accomplishments succinctly, and to extempora-neously cope with unscheduled requests for information.