Photos

No matter how good you think you look, never include a photo on your resume. While employers will eventually want to know who the person behind the resume is, they’re more interested in evaluating your skills, accomplishments, and work history first. Moreover, the photo will overshadow everything else on the page, reducing the impact of your experience. While there’s a chance that the hiring manager will be captivated by your appearance, there’s also the possibility that they’ll be bothered by it. Don’t take a risk – leave the photo for LinkedIn.

References

Our writers often encounters references while performing our free resume evaluation service, and their inclusion is ultimately a waste of space. While references are important, recruiters aren’t looking to make contact with them yet – you’ll probably go through at least one interview or phone screen before they ask to contact your colleagues and supervisors. Be sure to have a separate reference page prepared, but don’t clutter your resume with them.

Hobbies

Frankly, most employers won’t care that you’re a tuba aficionado or a spaghetti enthusiast. Every letter counts on your resume, and you’d be ill-advised to include irrelevant personal information. Likewise, hiring managers want to see that you know when and how to draw the line between professionalism and nonchalance.

Colors or graphics

A quick Google search of resume templates reveals dozens of colorful outlines and stylish graphics that adhere to the latest design trends. But don’t be fooled – flashy designs hinder you more than they help. Recruiters and hiring managers possess subconscious biases that might doom your chances. Maybe you found a template with red coloring, but the recruiter hates red. Stick to a clean and conservative design that isn’t likely to offend. If you’re a graphic designer, showcase your skills with your portfolio instead.

Irreverent email addresses

If you haven’t opened a new email account since middle school, it might be time to reconsider your life choices. Email is often the first way that hiring managers will reach out to you, and an address like iloveturtles@peoplewholoveturtles.net will make them think twice before contacting you. Set up a new account with a mainstream provider and leave your old address off the resume.