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If you have ever gone through a job search, you probably have seen all of the advice out there on how to create a good resume. There are different opinions about what to include and what not to include, and these also change over time, depending on what employers are looking for.

Here is some of the current thinking on what to avoid putting on your resume.

1. An objective
At one time, this used to be almost a requirement for a resume. But these days, it is seen as a bit redundant. Your objective, naturally, is to get the job for which you are applying. Since resume real estate is so valuable, career counselors now advise people to use the space for more useful information.

Instead, counselors now tell people to open with a career summary, an advertisement about what you can do for a company, what skills and abilities you bring to the table, briefly stated. It is similar to an elevator pitch, only in a written version. The recommended length is about 90 to 100 words.

2. Certain keywords
These include hard, need, me, myself, chance, develop, learning. The words themselves are neither good nor bad, but depending on the context in which they are used could give the wrong impression. For example, using hard to describe your work may give the impression you are not up to the task. Using the words me and myself too often may show you are focused only on yourself and your goals and not much of a team player. Now, we all know that developing and learning are important, life-long endeavors, but again, if used in the wrong context, these words could give the impression that you don’t have the necessary knowledge and skills to do the job.

3. All of your previous work experience
Only include the work that is relevant to the job for which you are applying. The employer probably won’t care that you were a lifeguard at your community pool in college.

4. References
Again, not on the resume. You will supply them later if you are a finalist for the job.

5. Unrelated information
The employer probably won’t be interested in knowing what your hobbies are, unless they are directly related to the job.

6. Length
There is some disagreement about this one. Some will say that these days you don’t need to stick to just one page, that you can go to two or even three pages on a resume. And if you are applying for a senior leadership position, this may be the way to go.

But others still adhere to the one page rule. They argue that hiring managers spend such a short time looking at a resume that they are unlikely to turn to page two or three. Also, sticking to one page forces you to really think about what is truly important about you and your career, that only the most significant accomplishments and skills are included.

If you need help with your resume and job search, Winston Resources is the place to go. We are an experienced firm well equipped to work with you and find you a job that fits your skills. Contact Winston Resources today.


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