Resume Quiz: Fact or Fiction? Debunking Common Resume Myths with Expert Tips
When it comes to writing a resume, it seems like everyone has an opinion—and not all of them are accurate. From whether to include graphics to how long your resume should be, misinformation can lead to missed job opportunities. That’s why we’ve compiled a quick quiz-style guide to clear up the most frequently asked questions about resume writing, resume formatting, and current best practices.
❓Can I Use Graphics, Charts, or Logos on My Resume?
You may have seen resume templates filled with colorful infographics, pie charts, or company logos. While these elements can make a resume visually striking, they often backfire—especially when going through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS).
✅ Truth: Most ATS software cannot parse images, infographics, or unusual formatting, which means your resume could be rejected before a human ever sees it.
💡 Pro Tip: Stick to a clean, professional design with minimal graphics. Use simple bullet points, consistent formatting, and keywords from the job posting to ensure your resume is both readable and scannable.
❓Should I Include an Objective or a Summary?
This is one of the most common resume myths. Once upon a time, the objective statement was the standard. Today, it’s largely outdated.
✅ Truth: Replace the objective with a professional summary. This brief section (3–4 lines) should focus on what you bring to the table, highlight your career achievements, and include relevant keywords, technical skills, or languages spoken.
💬 Example: “Detail-oriented Marketing Manager with 8+ years of experience driving brand growth through strategic campaigns, SEO, and data analytics. Fluent in Spanish and certified in Google Analytics.”
❓Do I Really Need to Stick to a One-Page Resume?
The one-page resume rule is not a one-size-fits-all approach.
✅ Truth: One-page resumes are ideal for students, recent graduates, or entry-level professionals. If you have over 5 years of experience, a two-page resume is completely acceptable—as long as the content is relevant and easy to read.
❌ Avoid: Going over two pages unless you’re in academia, government, or applying for a highly technical role requiring detailed project breakdowns.
❓Should I Include My Personal Interests?
This one’s tricky. While adding personal hobbies might seem like a way to show your personality, it can sometimes do more harm than good.
✅ Truth: It’s best to leave off personal interests unless they directly relate to the job or company culture. For example, if you’re applying to an environmental nonprofit and you’re passionate about sustainable living, you might mention that in your cover letter instead.
❓Should References Be Included on the Resume?
This one’s an easy myth to bust.
✅ Truth: Do not include references or the phrase “References available upon request” on your resume. Employers assume you’ll provide them when asked.
💡 Best Practice: Save valuable space for achievements and skills. When references are requested, give your contacts a heads-up so they can be prepared with tailored feedback.
❓How Do I Keep My Resume Up to Date with Current Trends?
If your resume hasn’t been touched in years, it may be time for a refresh. Trends like clean formatting, keyword optimization, and achievement-driven bullet points are essential in today’s competitive job market.
✅ We can help: Whether you need a simple update or a complete overhaul, our Resume Writing Packages are designed to create a custom, modern resume tailored to your goals and industry.
📞 Ready to elevate your resume? Contact us today for a free consultation or explore our Resume Writing Packages to get started.
