Does Your Resume Need a Photo?

You might think that a resume photo is an integral part of your resume. Along with other unnecessary elements (which will be discussed below), all a photo does on your resume is take up precious space—unless you are applying for a modeling or acting job. Some job markets even go so far as to actively discourage the inclusion of a resume photo in your format.

For instance, Singapore's Ministry of Manpower, through its Fair Consideration Framework (FCF), says that job application forms should only provide information relevant to the job they are applying for, i.e., your skills and competencies. Personal information such as age, marital status, gender, religious beliefs, race, and, yes, a photo should not be on a resumé; at least, one that is submitted to a potential employer in Singapore. Otherwise, the application form may be deemed an instrument of discriminatory hiring, which goes against FCF's fair hiring practices.

Read on for 6 more things you do not need in your resume.

Long paragraphs of text

If you look at resume samples, none of them show solid walls of text. Rather, effective resumes have easy-to-read bullet points that go right to the point. Hiring managers have little time to read resumes thoroughly. So bullet points organised under subheads (executive summary, work experience, skills, etc.) help hirers quickly judge if you belong to the short list. Remember to include keywords throughout your resume; consult the job ad, job title, and industry-specific lingo to come up with the right keywords.

Dishonest statements

Yes, the recruitment process is a cutthroat race. However, adding half-truths to your credentials just to impress hiring managers may end up working against you. Bear in mind that many hirers consider candidates who may not have all the skills needed in the position, but who possess the right work ethic. After all, skills can be learned. There is no need to embellish your resumé.

Flowery language

Instead of writing, "Fantastic at motivating a team," write, "Capable of leading a team." Vague adjectives and adverbs only distract. Write simply and direct to the point without the fluff of flowery language. A professional resume uses words that focus on specific skills and accomplishments; so stick to statements that are loaded with value.

Social media platforms with inappropriate content

Enhancing your resume with a list of your social media profiles is acceptable, given today's highly digitised recruitment process. However, before you provide links to your digital self, make sure that these links lead to content that is meant to be public. Take down anything you would not want your parents to see. Better yet, include links to your online portfolio or your personal website.

Skills that are not relevant to the position

Before submitting your resume to a company, make sure it is updated according to the position you are applying for. Include your skills that will show hiring managers you are the right person for the job. This is why it is important to upskill even while you are working; think of it as making an investment on yourself.

Misspellings and grammatical errors

Spelling mistakes and errors in grammar on your resume show that you may not be as detail-oriented as your hirer wants you to be. Additionally, communication skills are important in any job. Proofread your resume at least twice before finalising it.

The main reason you should not include your photo in your resume is that it is unnecessary, unless the position you are applying for requires it. It may also become a tool for discriminatory hiring. Aside from your resume photo, there are other elements that must not appear on your resumé, either: writing errors, irrelevant skills, dishonest statements, and links to inappropriate social media content.

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