Nearly everything written about resume design concentrates on what you should put in. But let’s look at what should be left out, or at least minimized.
1. Salary history or salary requirements.
There is no good reason to mention your past, current, or expected salary. If you see a classified ad that says, “Only resumes with salary history will be considered,” don’t believe it. If your resume is strong enough, you’ll be contacted. Once contacted, be forthright.
2. References.
If you have high-impact or well-known professional references, fine. Otherwise, “References Available Upon Request” will do just fine. Avoid personal references like your minister or your attorney.
3. Superfluous materials.
When submitting a resume, avoid enclosing such items as your thesis, photos, diplomas, transcripts, product samples, newspaper articles, blueprints, designs, or letters of recommendation. These are props you can use during your interview, but not before. The only thing other than your resume that’s acceptable is your business card.
4. Personal information.
Leave out anything other than the absolute essentials such as, “Married, two children, willing to relocate, excellent health.” By listing your Masonic affiliation, save-the-whales activism or codependency support group, you could give the employer a reason to suspect that your outside activities may interfere with your work.