Ten Things to Leave out of your CV

1. Photos

The only people who need to include photos in their CVs are models and performers.

2. Any sort of failure

This covers exams, marriages, businesses, etc.

3. Every vacation and Saturday job you've ever had

Some of these may be relevant while you're looking for your first job, but after that they're meaningless. This doesn't apply to solid work experience breaks.

4. The words 'I', 'he' or 'she'

Your CV should normally be written in the first person ('I'), but you never actually need to write 'I' in a CV. Some people used to write their CV in the third person ('he' or 'she'). Again, you don't need to include the 'he' or 'she'.

5. References

These needn't be mentioned in your CV. Don't include names, addresses, emails and phone numbers. The phrase "References are available upon request" should be left out too.

6. Reasons for leaving each job

These are often negative points and leave you open to being misunderstood.

7. List of all your schools

This isn't necessary or of any interest to the employer. But do include your most recent educational establishment.

8. Salary information

This can only be used to reject your application. If an advertisement specifically requests this information, you can always include it in your cover letter.

9. Patterns, borders and graphics

These give your CV a cluttered appearance. Besides, what you think is tasteful may not be to the liking of the employer.

10. Binders and folders

These will often be discarded straight away, as your CV will be photocopied, scanned, faxed, etc.

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