4 things that shouldn't be on your resume in 2024

In today’s hyper-competitive job market, companies are receiving an influx of applications far greater than they did two years ago.

This surge in candidates means that standing out among the crowd is more challenging than ever. With recruiters inundated with resumes, your document must capture their attention immediately.

Research indicates that recruiters spend only 6-30 seconds reviewing each resume, making it crucial to present your qualifications succinctly and effectively.

Given the limited time recruiters spend on each resume, they focus on a few key elements to determine if a candidate is worth further consideration.

This means that the initial scan of your resume needs to hit specific checkmarks quickly.

Do you meet the core requirements listed in the job description? If the answer is yes, the recruiter will likely dive deeper into your resume. If not, your application might end up in the discard pile.

Simplify, Simplify, Simplify

The mantra for a successful resume in this competitive environment is simple: simplify, simplify, simplify. Your resume should be a streamlined, compelling snapshot of your qualifications, tailored to the job you’re applying for.

Think of it as a marketing teaser—just enough information to pique the recruiter’s interest and prompt them to call you for more details.

Summary

First and foremost, make a strong and clean impression with your summary. This section should be tightly aligned with the job description, highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences.

A well-crafted summary can set the tone for the rest of your resume and demonstrate that you are precisely what the employer is looking for.

Too Wordy

One common mistake is including too much text. You don’t need to list every single task you’ve performed in your career.

Instead, focus on your most significant achievements and responsibilities that are relevant to the position you’re applying for.

This concise approach makes your resume easier to read and ensures that the most important information stands out.

Formatting

Be cautious with formatting choices like overbolding and using italics excessively. While it’s essential to highlight key points, too much emphasis can make your resume look cluttered and unprofessional.

Use bolding sparingly to draw attention to your most critical accomplishments and roles without overwhelming the reader.

References

Another outdated practice is including a line that says “References available on request.” This phrase is unnecessary and takes up valuable space on your resume.

Employers assume you will provide references if requested, so there’s no need to state it explicitly. Instead, use that space to further highlight your qualifications and experiences.

In summary, the key to a bada$$ resume in today’s market is to keep it clean, concise, and directly aligned with the job description.

Make a strong initial impression with a well-crafted summary, avoid overloading your resume with text, and use formatting wisely.

By simplifying your resume and focusing on what matters most, you increase your chances of catching a recruiter’s eye and moving forward in the hiring process.