10 Resume Myths Busted

Some applicants have misconceptions about things that look bad on a resume. In reality these are popular myths:

1. You need to have a high grade point average. In reality most employers do not take your grade point average into account or even ask for it. Feel free to leave that off your resume altogether.
2. Resumes should be one page. The page length of a resume is really irrelevant. Do not add extra details to stretch it out, but do not worry about cutting out valuable information to make an imaginary one page limit.
3. Your social media sites are off limits. Do not be surprised if a potential employer or recruiter looks you up on social media. Be prepared with professional profiles and even consider including your LinkedIn profile address on your resume.
4. Add personal interests. Your resume is not the place to list personal interests.
5. It’s alright to make things up to “beef up” your resume. It is never OK to put false information on your resume. The worst case scenario is that it could come back to haunt you after you already have a job.
6. A general resume in better. In actuality, listing specific skills and experience that relate to the job you are applying for. Customize your resume for each job you apply to.
7. List your salary or benefits expectations. There is a specific time to discuss salary and compensation, but it is not on your resume.
8. Include references. There is no need to list references on your resume. Instead just add a line “references available upon request”.
9. Stick to a simple format. Standing out is the best thing you can do. Use color, graphs, or unique tactics to get the interviewer’s attention.
10. You should repeat the list of job requirements that you have. If it sounds like you just incorporated all of the job requirements in your resume, it sounds fake an unimpressive. Instead list your skills and accomplishments. Make sure to use unique synonyms instead of repeating the same traits.