The burning question when it comes to most résumés is how to wow them with the wonders of you all on an 8 ½ x 11 sheet of paper. For those readers who have seen my many blogs on résumé writing, you know I have no shortage of information regarding what you should include. Knowing what to leave off of your résumé is a topic that is of equal importance.

Here is a list of chart topping résumé no-no’s:

-Responsible for: ‘Responsible for’ is entirely too common and uninspiring. I do not recommend you start even one bullet or paragraph with this. Snorefest!
-I, We, Our: These are personal pronouns that should never be used when writing a résumé. (Cover letters are a different story.) Instead, use powerful action verbs to communicate your message. This will keep the reader engaged.
Example: Secured $10 million in incremental revenue through the development of strategic partnerships with leading logistics companies. Assembled and directed a global team comprised of local, European, and Asian resources.


-Organized and Detail Oriented: As opposed to what? Completely scatterbrained and unable to coordinate tying your shoes? These qualities are expected and should be a given. Use your résumé to convey what you DID in a clear and articulate manner. Give examples – make the reader understand how you delivered for your employer.
Example: Initiated the development of a streamlined database to manage the firm’s high net-worth clients. Designed a lead follow-up methodology, which resulted in a $2 million gain in quarterly revenue.

-Excellent with clients and customers: This screams cliché. This has no meaning except if it is backed by a situation, action, and result (SAR). Describe what you did for your clients / customers with the emphasis on a strong result.
Example: Resolved customer complaints, including tracking lost items and replacing broken parts. Recognized with the company’s “Achievement of Excellence” award in 2008 and 2009.

-Team Player: Would you tell a prospective employer that you detest people and would rather be left alone in a cubicle all day? The ability to collaborate with others is a given for most opportunities. Instead, focus on the specifics.
Example: Participated as a valued member of a 12-person project team to complete the redesign of 124,000 sq. ft. of retail space for a leading big box retailer; generated project schedules, orchestrated weekly meetings, and resolved outstanding issues to achieve project completion six weeks ahead of schedule.

You have but a few seconds to leave a strong impression. The call, if it comes, will be the direct result of a powerful résumé with concrete examples – without trite or meaningless verbiage. Dust off your document and review it. Are you guilty of empty phrases? If so, it’s time for a resume overhaul.