Sunday, March 31, 2013

Five things you should consider leaving off of your resume


1. Objective statement: Objective statements, which usually start with, "I'm looking for a job that..." have long been considered passe. Employers aren't reviewing your resume to find out what you want in a job; they want the resume to tell them why they should want you. 2. References available upon request: Including a list of references or the statement, "References available upon request," isn't necessary, because it's expected that you have references, should an employer request them. 3. Outdated or irrelevant information: Resumes are about quality, not quantity. Hiring managers don't have time to read through three pages' worth of positions held, dating back to when you were a dog sitter in high school. Consider removing any experience that is more than a decade old, especially if it's not applicable to the position for which you're applying. 4. Personal attributes: Unless you're applying for a modeling job or another position where looks are a factor, leave your picture off your resume. Most employers shouldn't -- and legally can't -- care about your appearance; they just want to know why you'd be good for the job. 5. False claims: This should go without saying, but inaccuracies or over-embellished education or experience have no place on a resume. Besides running the risk of getting caught (were an employer to do a background check, talk to references or conduct a social-media search), why would you want a job if you're not adequately prepared for it?

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