You probably already know this, but we’re going to say it anyway:

There are a lot of unemployed people out there.

So if you’re searching for jobs in Houston, Texas, then that means you have some stiff competition. And in order to get past the resume screening process, and make it into the interview round, you need to ensure your resume is impeccable.

However, as Houston, Texas recruiters, we know that most candidates include information on their resumes that they shouldn’t. The end result is that the resume distracts the hiring manager rather than entices them to schedule an interview.

To ensure you steer clear of making those same mistakes, here are 7 things to never put on your resume:

1. A cluttered job history.

You may feel compelled to include every detail of every job you’ve ever held. Don’t. Cut out the clutter, like the less-than-important jobs from high school and college, and highlight the information that is highly relevant to the position you’re applying for.

2. Personal information.

You might think that personal information is a no-brainer to leave off your resume. But, as Houston, Texas recruiters, we see things like marital status and social security numbers all too often. Don’t include it; it’s not necessary and it’s illegal for an employer to ask questions about whether you are married, have children, what are your religious affiliation is, etc.

3. Vague objectives.

Get rid of the meaningless and vague objectives, such as “To secure a position that will allow me to utilize my strengths.” Not only does the objective take up a lot of valuable space, but if it’s vague, then it’s not telling the prospective employer anything important about you. If you’re not sure what to write for your objective, then simply skip it.

4. Current business contact information.

Don’t include your phone number or email address at your current job, unless you want prospective employers calling you at work to schedule interviews. Instead include a personal (yet still professional) email address and cell or home phone number.

5. Lies about past Houston jobs.

If you only held your last job for one year, don’t stretch it to two years. With just a quick phone call, a prospective employer can very easily find out your last job title and the dates you worked. And you don’t want to blow a great job opportunity over a silly lie.

6. Sarcasm or jokes.

Unless you’re applying for a job as a comedy writer, skip any form of humor on your resume. Resumes and job interviews aren’t the best outlets to release your sarcastic side because you don’t know the other person and how they will receive it.

7. Negative comments.

Don’t include details about why you hated your last boss, your last job, or your former co-workers. Even if a past boss was a total jerk, complaining about him or her only makes you look bad.

And if you need some help crafting the perfect resume, or finding out about new jobs in Houston, Texas, give us a call. Whether you are looking to move up the corporate ladder, re-enter the workforce, get more experience, or just gain more control over your schedule, Murray Resources can help you locate the position that best matches your skills and interests. Search Houston, Texas jobs now.