With the workplace strategies evolving, it’s important to refurbish our resumes also. Knowing what to include in your resume is just as important, as it is to know what to exclude. Hiring managers and recruiters don’t have time to read through every resume minutely. TimesJobs presents a simple check-list that one can apply to the resume as a final check, just before sending it out to the recruiters.

The word “Resume” or “Curriculum Vitae” or “CV” at the top of the resume

When you are applying for a job it goes without saying that you are including your resume. So do you really have to spell it out for them? Including this in heading adds no value to your application. So, first thing first, delete the heading which reads “Resume” and replace it with your name.

Objective statements

Does your resume have a generic objective statement or a rambling quote on top of it? While you think that it will add depth to your resume, the reality is that the recruiters are very well aware that your resume is written to target their jobs and that you have the skills and experience for that particular role. Stand out of the crowd by replacing the objective statement with a qualifications-based statement or introduction that highlights to the reader what you have to offer to their organisation.

Hobbies

A big no to this one! Don’t mention your interest and hobbies if it has no relevance to your applied job. Space on a resume is at premium, so save the space for pertinent information and use it wisely.

Work gaps

A gap in work history creates a negative reflection about your work – at least in India. While there may be valid reasons for the gap, the tendency is to think otherwise. A shorter work gap can always be discussed during the course of face-to-face interview. It’s always safe, to be honest during a one-on-one conversation.

Every job you have ever had

The past experiences of your career can be collated with one line per job showing employer name, job title and dates. Try not to display every job you have ever you have done. There are chances that the last five work experiences may only be considered while shortlisting your resume. Remember, not the quantity but the quality of work done is all that matters.

Salary expectations

A pre-hand salary demand or expectation on the resume can be seen as too pesky by the employer and could be rejected on that basis. Some things can always be done off the record with smart communication.

Too much contact information

You need not display a lot of personal information. The recruiter has nothing to do with your marital status, number of kids, religion, race, country of birth, passport details etc. Your name, email address, contact number and address is all you need to share initially. For a better understanding of your professional profile, you can share the LinkedIn profile link.

References

It’s important to have references from your previous job and these are checked only after you have been shortlisted for an interview. The business references do not belong on the resume unless specifically asked by the employer.