It takes a Hiring Manager several seconds to scan your application and decide whether or not to consider inviting you for an interview. By cluttering your resume with information that is not relevant to the position you’re applying for, you are sabotaging your chances for landing that coveted job.
Here are some guidelines to help you improve your resume:
- There is no need to mention your high school studies if you’re a university graduate.
- Internships, college and summer jobs belong on your resume only if they are directly related to your target role, or if you have no other professional experience.
- Objectives and “References available…” are outdated and take up valuable real estate that can be used for more important information.
- Certifications, memberships, and hobbies are to be mentioned cautiously. List only those that might contribute to your professional image.
- Your headshot, marital status, and religious views are most likely irrelevant. In fact, many companies will remove this information from your application so it does not affect their decision one way or the other.
