Resumes are a crucial tool in the job search process, but it's important to know what to include and what to leave out. Here's a breakdown of what three experts recommend you avoid adding to your resume to increase your chances of securing an interview or landing a role.
The Case Against Photos
The consensus among our experts is clear: photos do not belong on a resume. Natasha Hawker, managing director of a human resources and recruitment service, emphasizes that while photos may be mandatory in some countries, Australian recruitment agencies often remove them. She explains that photos can be unprofessional and that AI systems and recruiters struggle to read them, making them a potential source of distraction and bias.
Jon Giorgioski, director of a resume consultancy practice, agrees. He advises against including photos or graphics, as they can create distractions and privacy concerns. This extends to personal details like date of birth, marital status, and full home address, which Giorgioski believes should only be included if specifically requested.
Personalizing References
Another area of agreement is the handling of references. Hawker suggests writing "referees available upon request" instead of listing specific contact details. This approach respects the privacy of referees and avoids unsolicited phone calls, which can be disruptive and unprofessional.
Annique Teycheney, a career coach, supports this, stating that references should only be included if specified in the job ad. Teycheney recommends that applicants prepare their references in advance, allowing them to provide relevant and personalized contact information when requested.
Navigating AI-Generated Content
The rise of generative AI tools has led to some common mistakes in resume writing. Hawker highlights the importance of removing parentheses or square brackets that often accompany AI-generated responses. She advises taking the time to personalize and review the content, ensuring that the information included is accurate and relevant.
While AI can produce professional content, Giorgioski warns against generic language. He believes that resumes should showcase an individual's unique skills and experiences, rather than relying solely on well-crafted language. A resume that tells a compelling story about a candidate's professional journey is more likely to capture a recruiter's attention.
The Value of Volunteering and Hobbies
When it comes to volunteering and hobbies, the experts offer nuanced advice. Hawker suggests that volunteering experience can be valuable, especially if it aligns with the job's requirements. For example, volunteering at a zoo or animal shelter could enhance a resume for a role related to animal welfare.
Giorgioski agrees that hobbies can be relevant, but he emphasizes the importance of finding a connection to the applied role. He recommends using hobbies as a talking point or to add depth to a candidate's profile, rather than simply listing them.
Teycheney takes a similar stance, suggesting that hobbies or volunteering experiences directly related to the industry should be included under the experience section. This approach ensures that the resume highlights relevant skills and experiences.
Leadership Roles and School Achievements
The experts also provide guidance on leadership roles and school achievements. Hawker advises that positions like school captain are valuable early in one's career but should be avoided once more experience is gained. The time frame for including these roles is typically between five and ten years.
Giorgioski acknowledges the relevance of leadership roles but notes that their significance diminishes over time. He suggests that recent school leavers may still benefit from including such achievements, especially if they demonstrate strong leadership skills.
Tailoring Your Resume
In the end, the key to a successful resume is personalization and tailoring. Hawker emphasizes the importance of not submitting generic resumes, as recruiters can quickly identify them. Giorgioski agrees, stating that resumes should be adjusted for each job application.
Teycheney underscores the value of feedback, recommending that applicants have their resumes reviewed by others. She believes that a fresh pair of eyes can provide valuable insights and help identify areas for improvement.
In conclusion, crafting a compelling resume involves a careful consideration of what to include and what to leave out. By following the experts' advice, job seekers can create resumes that stand out, showcase their unique skills, and increase their chances of securing an interview or landing their dream role.
