6. It’s not a novel.

Unless you have had a career spanning a vast number of different companies and job roles, your resume should never be longer than 2-5 pages, though this could vary depending on what level of position you are applying for. Generally though, your resume needs to be simple and concise – your education, qualifications, experience, and skills. Recruiters don’t need to know every detail of your degree, or every minute aspect of a job you had ten years ago.

7. Objective statements are out.

Professional summaries are in. When you apply for a job, recruiters don’t need to see a subtitle under your name that says; ‘I’m looking for a job at your company.’ They know, because you’ve applied. However, the new trend of a professional summary is a good way to use your resume to introduce yourself, especially if a cover letter is not applicable. It gives the recruiter a small snapshot of your attitude and your professional experience. A professional summary should include your most recent role, your key skills, and what you offer to the company.

8. Irrelevant experience.

If you’re applying for a job as a consultant, recruiters for that role don’t really see the connection between that and your last summer job as a barista. Keep your experience relative to the job, or a recruiter isn’t going to consider you as a serious candidate.