10 Worst Things to Put on Your Resume

With so many people unemployed and looking for jobs, the resume is still your first impression and most powerful weapon.  However some applicants, in attempting to stand out from the masses, are turning to techniques that could hurt more than help. Also, some former techniques are now considered archaic. Example: "References Available Upon Request".  Show the employer you are current with

Below is a summary of things you need to LEAVE OUT of the resume. For a detailed explanation, click here for a complete explanation by industry experts.

1. Unnecessary Details About Your Life
When applying for a job in the U.S. only include your name, address, email and contact information. Do not offer information such as your age, religion, political party.

2. Leave Out Jobs You Held as a Teenager
Unless you're in the business of saving lives, leave out the summer job as a lifeguard.

3. Headshot
Unless the application requires it for a specialty job where looks and appearances are part of the hiring protocol, do not add a photo.

4. Salary Expectations
This follows the age-old golden rule. Avoid mentioning salary expectations until the interview and even then, offer a range.

5. Don't Lie about Jobs, Responsibilities, Timelines
With today's technology, and your social security now tied to every job, this is also linked to government agencies for purposes of taxes and unemployment.  It's easier now for employers to verify your employement through a number of private systems.

6. Things That Were Labeled "Confidential" in past Jobs
What happened in past jobs labeled "Confidential" should stay in your past. Never burn bridges by breaking that confidence.

7. List a Job even if you were Fired.
We know this is tough, but list it and be honest.

8. Overly Verbose Statements
Avoid the dramatic flair to make up for inexperience or a gap in unemployment. In today's society, it's more common to find new graduates taking longer to find jobs, or professionals who take a sabbatical for motherhood or other reasons. 

9. "References Available Upon Request"
Get with the 21st century.  Be proactive and have it ready! Employers will ask for it in application or interview.

10. TMI ("too much information")
It goes with out saying anywhere, never give too much information. Recruiters nowadays wade through hundreds if not thousands of resumes.  A clean, succinct not overly jammed resume will get more noticed. Also, this aids with the increasing use of a scanner when key words are picked up electronically. Use the same key words from the ad in your resume.

Good luck Job Hunting!