3 Sections to Leave Off of Your Resume

When it comes to resume writing, deciding what information to include versus what not to include is critical – especially when the job market is so competitive. The most effective resumes are precise, meticulously written and strategic. These are resumes that stand out, grabbing the attention of employers and for all the right reasons.  
 
As such, it is important to present a resume that features only the most relevant information aligned with your job search. This means eliminating irrelevant information that could distract the employer or dilute the value that you bring to the table. Ensure you make a good impression by leaving these three items off of your resume today. ​

 
 #1.  Objective Statements
Today’s employers are more interested in what you can contribute to the company and not what you expect from them. In resumes of the past, the connotation of the objective statement was to demand privileges from the company rather than demonstrate the value being offered. While it is important to state what it is that you seek, a far better approach is to describe how you can benefit the employer. So, instead of an objective statement, a summary profile or summary of qualifications section is the preferred route. This section explains where it is you’d like to go next in your career and why you’re a good fit for candidacy. In just a few sentences, this section will include your knowledge, skills, abilities, and key strengths and it will say to employers that there is something you can do for them versus the other way around.
 
 #2.  Hobbies 
Listing personal hobbies on a resume should be avoided. As stated above, employers are more concerned about how your skillset aligns with their job requirements and if you can do the job. There is one exception to this rule however: only include hobbies on your resume if they are relevant to your target job. For example, if you are applying for a restaurant position and your hobbies include cooking, baking and trying new recipes, it may be warranted to list these interests. On the other hand, if your hobby is something entirely unrelated, it is best to leave this information off the resume. When it comes to resume writing, the goal is to impress employers with information that is directly related to what it is they are seeking. Again, remember that your resume should only have the information that would display your qualifications and fit in performing the functions required for the job. It should not be cluttered with data that does not speak to the employer's needs.
 
 #3.  Reference Lists
Another section to leave off of a modern resume is the reference list. Today, most employers will ask for a list of references as a part of the job application. This is an antiquated section within the resume that dates the applicant and the document itself. Similarly, there is zero need to include a “References Upon Request” statement as it is generally understood that references will be required. Bear in mind that a reference list would not set you apart from the other applicants when an employer is reading the resume. Including your references in your resume is redundant and it takes up valuable space within the document that could be used for more critical facts about you. As an alternative, prepare a separate document that lists your references and that can be presented to employers when they ask for them.
 
Summary
In sum, employers only have a few seconds to read the resumes that come across their desks. You can decrease the odds of your resume being passed over, by ensuring it is spot on and free of unnecessary information such as an objective statement, hobbies and a reference list. To learn more about this topic, schedule a call today to speak with one of our career experts.
 
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