The Do’s and Don’ts of Resume Writing: Avoid These Common Mistakes

Writing a resume can be a daunting task. There are endless resources and advice out there, but it can be hard to know what information to include and what to leave out. And while you may think that more information is always better, there are actually certain things that you should avoid putting on your resume if you want to make a good impression and increase your chances of landing the job.

Here are the top things to leave off your resume:

An Objective Statement

In the past, objective statements were a popular way to start a resume. However, they have since fallen out of favor. Hiring managers are more interested in what you can bring to the table and how you can help their organization, not what you hope to get out of the job. 

An Outdated Email Address

It may seem small, but having an outdated or unprofessional email address on your resume can make a big impact. Make sure your email address is professional and up-to-date, and consider using a personal domain if possible.

Irrelevant Work Experience

Unless it directly relates to the job you’re applying for, don’t include work experience from more than 10-15 years ago. This will just clutter up your resume and take away from the more recent and relevant experiences.

Excessive Fluff or Jargon

Avoid using buzzwords or industry jargon that the hiring manager may not understand. Be concise and use clear, simple language to explain your skills and experience.

Lies or Exaggerations

It’s never a good idea to lie or exaggerate on your resume. Not only is it unethical, but it’s also illegal. And if you’re caught, it can ruin your reputation and damage your chances of getting hired.

Salary Information

Unless you’re asked to provide your salary history or expectations, it’s best to leave this information off your resume. Bringing up salary too early in the process can give the impression that you’re more interested in the pay than the job itself.

Unprofessional Social Media Profiles

If you’re using social media for professional purposes, make sure your profiles are designed to put your best professional foot forward. TikTok and Instagram are designed for personal use cases, but platforms like LinkedIn and Heyo are geared toward professional networking. Consider including a career-centric profile that can show off your personality while keeping it professional.

Too Much Detail

Keep your resume concise and focused on the most important information. Don’t include every little detail about your work history or every single accomplishment. Focus on the information that is most relevant to the job you’re applying for.

Negativity

Your resume should be a positive representation of yourself and your skills. Avoid including any negative information, such as reasons for leaving a previous job or conflicts with coworkers.

Now that you know what to leave off your resume, it’s time to start focusing on what to include.

And that’s where Heyo comes in. Heyo is a platform that allows you to create a unique and engaging online profile, complete with video, audio, and text. With Heyo, you can showcase your skills, experience, and personality in a way that’s much more memorable and engaging than a traditional resume.

So why not give Heyo a try today and see how it can help you stand out from the crowd?