Resume Writing Don’ts: 10 Things You Should Never Include On Your Resume

Certainly, here are some common “Don’ts” for writing a resume in the English language:

Don’t Use Unprofessional Email Addresses: Avoid using unprofessional or outdated email addresses like “[email protected].” Create a dedicated email address that includes your name.

Don’t Include Irrelevant Personal Information: Your resume should focus on your professional qualifications. Avoid including personal details like age, marital status, or social security numbers.

Don’t Use Overly Complicated Formatting: While creative designs can be appealing, overly complex formatting can make your resume difficult to read, especially when it’s parsed by applicant tracking systems (ATS). Stick to a clean and professional format.

Don’t Write a Novel: Keep your resume concise and to the point. Avoid lengthy paragraphs; instead, use bullet points to highlight your achievements and responsibilities.

Don’t Provide Excessive Detail: While detailing your work experience is important, avoid including every single task you’ve ever performed. Focus on relevant accomplishments and responsibilities.

Don’t Use Generic Language: Avoid using generic terms like “responsible for” or “worked on.” Instead, use action verbs to describe your achievements and highlight your contributions.

Don’t Skip Proofreading: Grammatical errors and typos can make your resume appear unprofessional. Always proofread your resume multiple times or ask someone else to review it for you.

Don’t Include Unrelated Hobbies: Unless your hobbies directly relate to the job you’re applying for, it’s best to leave them out. Focus on showcasing your skills and experiences.

Don’t Lie or Exaggerate: Be truthful about your qualifications and experiences. Exaggerating or providing false information can be detrimental to your job prospects and reputation.

Don’t Neglect Tailoring: Customize your resume for each job application. Highlight experiences and skills that align with the specific job description and company’s needs.

Don’t Forget Contact Information: Ensure your contact information is accurate and up to date. It’s crucial for employers to be able to reach you easily.

Don’t Overdo Buzzwords: While industry-specific keywords can be helpful, don’t overuse buzzwords to the point where your resume sounds artificial.

Don’t Include References: It’s generally not necessary to include references on your resume. If an employer wants references, they will ask for them separately.

Don’t Neglect the Summary/Objective: If you choose to include a summary or objective, make sure it’s concise and tailored to the specific role you’re applying for.

Don’t Use an Unreadable Font: Stick to standard, legible fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid using overly decorative or difficult-to-read fonts.

Remember, your resume is often your first impression on potential employers, so it’s essential to present yourself in the best possible light by avoiding these common resume writing mistakes.