Below are five things to leave off your CV:
- Clichés: Overused words make your application seem generic, so change phrases like ‘responsible for’ and ‘detail oriented’ to attention-grabbing CV words like ‘trusted with’ and ‘meticulous’.
- Irrelevant information: Even if you’re proud of an achievement or skill, if it’s not relevant to your target role, it won’t connect with the person who reads your CV.
- References: Adding references to your CV takes up space where you should put details that relate your background to the job (the employer will ask for references later in the hiring process).
- Your picture: Putting your picture on your CV opens you up to possible discrimination based on your appearance. (However, you can use a CV template with a photo if you’re applying for a job that requires you to send a professional headshot as part of your application — an acting role, for instance.)
- Overly personal details: Your relationship status, age, race, and gender are examples of personal details to leave off your CV to avoid hiring bias.