I’ve written over 1,000 resumes, and reviewed many more. Here is a list of 15 things NOT TO INCLUDE in your resume–eliminate these and you will be closer to creating a resume that gets noticed.

1. Lies–today, almost any lie can and will be exposed, so while your resume is a marketing tool where you need to show your skills in their best light, do not make anything up. Show your accomplishments in their most positive light, but don’ t exaggerate your contributions.
2. Don’t include a picture of yourself. No, not even if you’re hot, Chad.
3. Delete “References on Request.” That is implied and the hiring manager will request them if and when they are needed (a good thing because that means you are being seriously considered).
4. Don’t fail to include a cover letter. That is the default, whether the ad you are responding to mentions it or not. Your email subject line should clearly indicate what is inside, such as “Application for Operations Manager position”
5. Delete “Phone” or “Cell” when it precedes your phone number; same with “Email:”
6. Delete “Hobbies and Interests” unless they are directly related to the position you are applying for.
7. Delete your year of graduation unless its recent, and don’t list your high school unless it was recent and you didn’t go to college.
8. Don’t list your GPA unless you got a 3.75 or better.
9. Don’t list your age, marital status, social security number(!) or number of kids.
10. Delete “MS Outlook” “email” and “Internet-savvy” in the skills area.
11. Only list one phone number and one email address on your resume. LinkedIn too, if you have one (for most industries/careers, you probably should)
12. Don’t include every job you’ve ever had…go back 10-15 years only, for most career
13. Big words. Obviously you must use professional tone, language and words, but your goal should be to write at 9th grade level. Remember, your resume is a marketing document designed to sell the hiring manager on YOU.
14. Hint: rather than naming your resume file with “resume.doc” name it with the more descriptive and personal “John Smith – Experienced Medical Assistant Resume.doc.”
15. Use AI for guidance, formatting and grammar correction, don’t just copy/paste. Experienced hiring managers have seen this time and time before. Be original or hire an expert to help you.