Writing a Good Resume is Nerve-wracking. But it?s Worth the Time and Trouble.
Whether you?re ready to change careers or are looking for your first job, make sure that your resume represents you as well as possible. Most of us know what should be included, but we?re unclear on what to leave out. Remember that a resume should generally be only one to two pages and contain only the information that relates to the job for which you?re applying. A well written resume lets a hiring manager know your qualifications without having to know every detail about your life. More often, it makes sense not to include information that could thwart your chance of getting an interview. Here, then, is a brief guide on what NOT to include in a resume.
The Word “Resume”: Don?t title or save your resume as simply ?resume?. Anyone looking at your resume will already know what it is. In addition, a document entitled ?resume? and lacking a name makes it more difficult for a hiring manager or HR office to track. Use your name so your resume doesn?t get lost in the shuffle.
To Date or Not to Date: An employer doesn?t need to know when you wrote your resume, so don?t include it. The only dates you are to include are those regarding education and employment.
Don?t Make it Personal: The only personal information you need to list is your address, email, and phone number. Omit your age, race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, political affiliation, and the names and ages of your spouse and/or children. You should also leave out important numbers (social security, driver?s license, any credit card information) that could be used to steal your identity.
Photographs: Most companies prefer that you not attach a photo because it helps them comply with Equal Opportunity Employer Legislation which prohibits companies from hiring someone based on appearances.
Don?t Get Physical: Your height, weight, eye color, etc, don?t belong on a resume because, like photographs, they can be used to accuse a company of discrimination.
No Negativity: No criticism of past jobs, supervisors or teachers, please. The same goes for listing what you haven?t yet accomplished. For example, instead of describing yourself as having ?limited experience? in a field, just provide examples of the experiences you have had.
It?s true that writing a resume can be as nerve-wracking as job hunting and interviewing. Just remember that taking the time to write a relevant resume helps you to make a good first impression. When you look professional, a company will be more inclined to hire you.
Have you ever made a mistake on a resume? Or have you seen a particularly badly written one? We?d love to hear from you! Please comment in the field below.
