10 Things To Leave Off Your Resume

Your resume is your first impression.  The language and content of your resume can increase or decrease your chances of landing the job.  Filling precious resume space with verbose language or buzzwords can backfire. Here are 10 words to remove from your resume today:

1. Unemployed

The dates of your employment are shown on your resume. Don’t further emphasize you are unemployed.

2. Hardworking

Company already assume you are a hardworking individual, don’t call it out. 

3. Objective

Most resumes are self-explanatory.  There is no need to take up valuable space with an objective.  It is redundant.

4. Synergy

Words like “synergy” are buzzwords and over used.  Try and avoid them in your resume.

5. Reference Available Upon Request

Having “references upon request” at the bottom of your resume is a sign that a candidate is overeager. If a recruiter wants to call to know more about you, they will reach out directly. There is no need to point out the obvious

6. Rock star

The term “rock star” has been over used in the last few years, especially in the technology industry.

7. Dabbled

Using “dabbled” indicates that you were exposed to a skill or technology.  If that is the case and you don’t use the skill or technology in your position(s), leave it off your resume.

8. Expert

Stay away from the word expert, unless you truly are an expert.  If you include it in your resume, be prepared to back it up during the interview

9. Excessive personal information

Avoid including your birthday, family information, visa status, etc. This information doesn’t speak to your qualifications.

10. Hobbies

Content that does not relate to the job and does not address what qualifications can eliminate you as a candidate.  It is safer to leave hobbies off your resume.  Let me company focus on what you do at work, not after work.