What to OMIT From your Resume

The style used for writing résumés has changed over the past few years to make them more persuasive and concise. Goal: Each résumé entry should persuade readers that they should hire the writer.

What to omit:

• Photos. A picture may give employers misleading impressions.

• Salary requirement. Why should applicants price themselves out of a job or show that they are a bargain?

• Reasons for leaving jobs. These are better explained in interviews.

• Date of résumé preparation or date available to begin work. Both indicate how long you have been looking for a job. Exception: When you’re looking for seasonal work.

• References or a statement that references are available on request. Instead: List them on a separate sheet and adapt them to each employment situation.

• Empty assurances. All applicants think they are good, honest, loyal, and healthy workers. Demonstrate these qualities through concrete examples during interviews.

• Vague references to time gaps. Employers look for holes. Explain them in terms of accomplishments. Example: Travel to improve a language capability or research a specific project.

• Hobbies and outside interests. Exceptions: Those that relate to professional interests or show traits an employer wants. Avoid listing any dangerous or time-consuming activities.

22nd April 2003