Resume Mistake # 3 - You get a little too personal.
“Homeowner, enjoys hiking, President of Milwaukee’s Pro-Life Council.”

We know you know, but—please—keep your resume simple and keep it professional. Don’t include personal interests, organizations you’re involved in or your favorite movie. “Someone once listed their membership to a radical group,” says Keyzers. “Be very careful and know your audience. It’s safer to say nothing, give no personal information.” Do make it easy for employers to understand why you’re perfect for the position. Put your skills and relevant experience at the top of your resume. “No one wants to read four pages of boring details,” says LaRocca.

Resume Mistake #4 - Your contact information.
“Amber Cortez, 2386 W. 16TH Street #216, Los Angeles, CA 90234”

What about it? It’s gotta be there. You’re thinking, “Well of course!” but believe us, this happens more than you’d think. “You’d be surprised how many people submit resumes with only a mailing address as their contact information. Do you think I’m going to ask you about an interview via snail mail? Include your e-mail or phone number, preferably both,” says Palavi Yetura, a hiring manager at a San Diego-based magazine. Your name and all relevant contact info should appear at the top and center of your resume and any other accompanying documents, like references or writing clips.

JUST. PLAIN. DON’T…

  • Submit a resume longer than one page.
  • Include your picture: “I’ve seen this done before and it is tacky, tacky, tacky! Leave the mug shot at home and let them see you in person,” says LaRocca.
  • List being employed by your parents in your job history.
  • Get the company’s name wrong. Check it and double-check it!
  • List poor references: If you don’t have any good ones, don’t list any at all.
  • Use fancy paper or paper with graphics. “This is a big no-no, unless you are a graphic artist, web designer or have some other need to show your creative flair,” says LaRocca.
  • List an inappropriate e-mail address: You can bet that KegStandQueen@yahoo.com is probably not going to get a follow up reply.