You Need To Stop Putting These In Your Resume and CV!

Some things are just TMI.

By Matt Khoo on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM

Updated on 2025-03-19 at 4:31 PM

Your resume is your first impression, and hiring managers often spend just a few seconds scanning it before deciding whether to move forward with your application. 

That means every word counts, and cluttering your resume with unnecessary details can work against you.

What to Leave Off Your Resume

To make the most of your limited space, here are a few things you should remove immediately:

1. Personal Details That Aren’t Relevant

Including information like your full address, marital status, age, religion, or nationality is unnecessary. Employers in Malaysia do not require these details, and they take up valuable space that could be used to highlight your skills and accomplishments.

2. An Unprofessional Email Address

If your email looks something like "coolguy123@email.com", it’s time for an upgrade. Use a professional format with your first and last name for credibility.

3. Long Paragraphs Instead of Bullet Points

Hiring managers skim resumes, so make yours easy to read with concise bullet points instead of long paragraphs. Focus on action-driven language and quantifiable achievements to make your impact stand out.

4. Generic Skills Without Context

Instead of listing skills like “Teamwork” or “Leadership” without context, demonstrate them through real-life examples in your experience section. For example:

• Improved team efficiency by 30% by streamlining workflows.
• Led a team of five to successfully complete a project ahead of schedule.

5. Irrelevant Work Experience

Not every past job needs to be listed. Prioritize relevant experience that aligns with the job you’re applying for, and leave out unrelated roles unless they showcase transferable skills.

6. Your Photo (In Some Cases)

While some industries in Malaysia accept resume photos, many global companies prefer resumes without pictures to avoid bias. If in doubt, check the job listing or company guidelines.

7. References (Unless Specifically Requested)

“References available upon request” is outdated and unnecessary. If an employer needs references, they will ask for them later in the process.

Craft a Resume That Stands Out:

• The Perfect Resume Checklist
• 5 Tricks That Recruiters Love In Resumes
• How A Video Cover Letter Can Land You A Job

Want to find a company that values your skills and work personality? Take Hiredly’s Work Personality Test to match with the best workplaces for you. Plus, join the Young Leaders Community to connect with like-minded professionals and stay ahead in your career. Start your job search the smart way with Hiredly today!

By Matt Khoo on 2023-11-27 at 7:11 AM