10 things you should not include in Canadian CV, resume

Your Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume serves as a crucial tool in influencing your ability to secure a job. It provides a snapshot of your skills, qualifications, and experiences, helping employers assess your suitability for a position.

OpporTechies gathered that a well-crafted CV not only highlights your professional background but also showcases your achievements and contributions. It should be tailored to the specific job, demonstrating a clear alignment between your capabilities and the employer’s requirements. A concise and organized CV is more likely to capture the attention of hiring managers.

Just like several other countries, Canada has its own resume/CV style.
OpporTechies has curated 10 items that should not be included in your Canadian-style resume.

Personal information: Personal information such as age, marital status, gender, religion, social insurance number (SIN), political affiliation or immigration status are generally not relevant to job applications in Canada.

Photograph: Unless you are applying for a job as a model or actor, including a photo on your CV is not common in Canada.

Irrelevant hobbies: While it’s okay to mention hobbies, make sure they are relevant or add value to your application. Avoid listing unrelated or generic interests.

Unsubstantiated claims: Be truthful about your skills and experiences. Exaggerating or making false claims can harm your credibility.

Unexplained employment gaps: If you have employment gaps, briefly explain them to show transparency and prevent potential concerns from employers.

Unrelated certifications: Include certifications and qualifications that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Avoid adding certificates that are not pertinent to the position.

References without permission: Don’t include references on your CV without obtaining permission from the individuals first. Instead, state that references are available upon request.

Unprofessional email addresses: Use a professional email address. Avoid using nicknames or overly casual email IDs.

Overly complex language: Keep your language clear and concise. Avoid using jargon that may not be universally understood and focus on effective communication.

Negative language: Present your experiences and achievements positively. Avoid using negative language or discussing previous workplace issues.

It is pertinent to note that your CV is a key factor in shaping employers’ perceptions and plays a pivotal role in determining your success in the job application process.