Your resume should only showcase the most essential elements related to the position you’re applying to, while being presented as clearly as possible. If you had had extensive experiences in different fields, it can be tempting to put as much information as you possibly can think of in an attempt to make your resume shine even more. In reality, you are most likely hurting your chances of getting a call from the recruiter by doing so.
With that in mind, here are 11 things you should never include on your resume:
1. An exhaustive list of your education background
Some diplomas are better left off of your resume. If you already have a college degree, it is assumed that you also have graduated from high school. Recruiter only look at your last diploma or the one most relevant to the position you are applying to.
2. Your grades
Unless the company specifically ask for your grades in the job posting, don’t bother mentioning it on your resume, especially if you’ve been out of college for over 1-2 years. If it is something you want to highlight, you can do so during the interview process.
3. A photo of yourself
In certain countries, especially in Europe, the use of a photograph in your resume is fairly standard practice. In Nord America, it is not common and actually not required. We suggest not including it on your resume. Having one doesn’t necessarily hurt your chances, but some employers might view it as inappropriate and discard your resume without taking a second glance.
4. Skills that are overused
Certain skills like « Efficient », « Independent » or « Punctual » are the norm for most positions. The recruiter already expects you to have all those qualities. By using precise skills that are directly linked to the position, you’ll stand out from the applicant’s pool.
5. Any discriminatory information
Any personal information regarding your religion, your political view, your age, your marital status or your sexual orientation should never appear on your resume. It is also illegal for any recruiter to ask personal information unless it is directly related to the essential functions of the position, in a way that is not discriminatory.
6. Salary information
Salaries should always be discussed during the last steps of the hiring process. If you are asked to include a salary requirement in your application, give a bracket that would work for you, and mention that you’re flexible and open to discuss compensation amounts.
7. Any lies
It is extremely dangerous to embellish your resume. It is very easy for a recruiter to verify any information you provide, which will result in the immediate rejection of your application by the company.
8. Irrelevant work experience
Any experience you add to your resume should be directly relevant to the position you’re applying to. It is not necessary to mention your student jobs if you have more than five years of experience in your field. Your days of being the king of latte arts won’t help you get your dream job, unless you’re trying to reclaim the title that is.
9. Reasons you left your company or position
Your interview is the best place to address those reasons. Your resume is not.
10. Too much information on your hobbies
Not every single one of your hobbies is worth putting on your resume. If they are in a way related to the position you’re applying to, it is good to put it out there. For example, if you’re the president of a society or a club outside of work, it might be helpful in showing you’re leaderships skills if the position requires it.
11. A non-professional email address
Your email address plays an important role in terms of the image you present of yourself. No one will be charmed by the “oh so funny” email address you made back in middle school. A simple address featuring your first and last name is the only thing you need to look professional to a recruiter.
