I was perusing my latest issue of Net-Temps Careers newsletter Crossroads and came across some very good advice. The article was about what not to put on a resume. I have seen literally thousands of resumes and sometimes I wonder “What was this guy thinking?” Ever had a situation at work that was not your fault, but still didn’t go your way? Of course, all of us have. Spilling it in your resume is not the place to explain a somewhat compromising position. In the sage words of career columnist David Green:

Negative Words
”Negativity is never a good thing when it comes to an online resume. It doesn’t matter why you left your last job, never bring up words like: arrested, bored, fired, hate, or sexist. These words stick out to a recruiter, and your resume will likely only make it to the trash bin. If you had issues that you would like to bring up to your potential employer- save it for the actual interview.”

Don’t get me wrong, resumes that read like a Danielle Steele novel are entertaining; but, they don’t get it done. Even in the worst situations, it is always better to explain in an interview than look like a psycho on paper.

The thing about bashing is that it only serves to make the basher look like an idiot. Talking smack about your previous employer does nothing to endear you to your prospective employer. In fact, just the opposite happens. You are more likely to become an “also ran.”

The key to success in any job search situation is sincerity. Recruiters and HR Managers can spot a snow job a mile away. Be forthright and courteous (especially when referring to past work experiences) and you will surely find yourself on the short list!