What should I avoid putting on my resume
Your resume gets maybe six seconds. That's it. One quick scan and they've already decided. And the worst part? Most people stuff theirs with junk that screws them over without realizing it. So here's what the experts actually say to cut. Right now.
Outdated or irrelevant personal information
Nobody needs to know you're 42 or that you're married. Or your religion. Or a photo. Seriously, in some places that opens up a whole bias can of worms—for both sides. Just give them your name, a phone number, an email that doesn't look like it's from 1998, and maybe a LinkedIn link. City and state is enough. Nobody's mailing you anything.
An objective statement
The "Objective" section is basically a relic. Like a fax machine on a resume. We know you want the job, that's why you applied. Instead, lead with a punchy professional summary or a headline that screams "here's what I've done and why it matters." Show them you can actually solve their problems, not just take up space.
Hard-to-read fonts and excessive design
Look, I get it. You want to stand out. But those fancy templates with graphics and weird fonts? They're basically kryptonite for Applicant Tracking Systems. Stick to clean stuff like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. And for the love of everything, avoid tables, columns, or text boxes unless you're 100% sure the system won't choke on them.
Irrelevant work experience
You don't need to list that summer job scooping ice cream from 2003. Unless you're applying for a gig at Cold Stone. Focus on roles that actually matter for the job you want now. If you've been around the block, just summarize the early stuff without dates. Something like "Previous roles in retail and customer service (2005-2010)" works fine. Keeps it clean.
Personal hobbies and interests (unless strategic)
"Reading" and "watching movies" takes up line space. That's valuable real estate. Only include hobbies if they scream transferable skills. Like "Competitive chess player" says strategic thinking. "Marathon runner" says discipline and goal setting. Otherwise, just drop them. Seriously.
Negative language or reasons for leaving past jobs
Never, ever write "fired" or "laid off" or "left due to conflict." That's insane. Your resume is a sales pitch, not a confession booth. If they ask in an interview, handle it professional. On paper? Stick to accomplishments and skills. Period.
References or "References available upon request"
This is a total waste. They know you have references. Everyone has references. Use that line for something that actually matters—like a key achievement or a link to your portfolio. Keep a separate reference list ready to go when they ask.
Salary history or desired salary
Don't put salary stuff on your resume. It boxes you in. Or worse, gets you screened out entirely. Negotiations happen later. If the application forces it, handle it in a cover letter or a separate field. But not on the resume itself.
Excessive use of buzzwords and clichés
"Hardworking," "team player," "go-getter," "results-oriented"—these words are so overused they're meaningless. Like saying "I breathe air." Prove it with numbers. "Increased sales by 20% in six months" is way more powerful. Show, don't tell.
Inconsistent formatting and typos
One typo and they think you're careless. Seriously. Use consistent formatting for dates, bullet points, headings. Read the thing aloud. Use spell-check. Ask a friend to look it over. Small errors cost you the interview. I've seen it happen.
Data table: Key items to remove immediately
| Item to Remove | Why It Hurts | What to Do Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Photo | Bias risk, ATS confusion | Use LinkedIn for visual branding |
| Objective statement | Outdated, self-focused | Use a professional summary |
| Hobbies (generic) | Wastes space | Only include if skill-relevant |
| References line | Redundant | Use space for achievements |
| Salary info | Limits negotiation | Handle later in process |
FAQ: People also ask
Should I include my GPA on my resume?
Only if it's 3.5 or higher and you're a recent grad (within two years). For experienced folks? Leave it off entirely. Focus on real work achievements instead.
Is it okay to use a creative resume template?
Depends. For design or marketing roles, go for it. But for corporate, finance, or tech? Stick to clean, ATS-friendly formats. When in doubt, simplicity wins. Every time.
Can I include a link to my social media?
Only professional stuff like LinkedIn or a portfolio site. No personal Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok unless you're applying for a social media manager role. Even then, be careful.
Should I list every job I have ever had?
No way. Focus on the last 10-15 years. Only include roles relevant to your target job. Older stuff? Summarize in one line. Keeps it concise and targeted. Recruiters don't need your whole life story.
Checklist: Before you submit your resume
- Remove any personal data (age, photo, marital status).
- Replace objective with a professional summary.
- Delete references line and salary info.
- Cut generic hobbies and irrelevant jobs.
- Check for typos and inconsistent formatting.
- Ensure it is ATS-friendly (no tables, columns, or graphics).
- Use action verbs and quantifiable achievements.
- Keep it to one or two pages maximum.
Expert insight: According to a recent survey by TopResume, 75% of recruiters say they reject resumes because of irrelevant information or formatting issues. Your resume is a marketing document, not a life story. Every word must earn its place.
Short Summary
- Remove personal details: Avoid age, photo, marital status, and full address to prevent bias.
- Cut outdated sections: Ditch objectives and references lines; use summaries and achievements.
- Focus on relevance: Only include recent, job-related experience and strategic hobbies.
- Prioritize clarity: Use clean formatting, no buzzwords, and always proofread for errors.
