What Not to Include on a Resume for US Employers

Remove sensitive information from the resume

Use a city or region instead of a full residential address when a precise address is unnecessary. Do not attach a passport, Social Security number or work-authorisation document to a publicly shared resume. An employer's secure application or onboarding process is a separate channel, not a reason to publish those details.

Replace weak content with evidence

Delete unsupported adjectives and long lists of unrelated duties. Replace 'excellent communicator' with a genuine example of explaining a technical decision, resolving a customer issue or coordinating stakeholders. Do not invent a percentage merely because a template has a space for one.

• Omit references and their private contact details unless specifically requested.
• Remove outdated skills that do not support the target role.
• Keep relevant volunteer work or projects even when they were unpaid.

Decide whether an exception is relevant

An academic CV may need publications, teaching and research details that a commercial resume would omit. A performing-arts application may request a separate headshot. Read the vacancy rather than assuming a single rule covers every occupation. If you are unsure about a request for sensitive data, verify the employer and channel first.