When invited on Oprah, reveal all. But not on your resume. Just because you've told nothing but the truth on your resume, that doesn't mean that some of those things might be better off left unsaid.
I see thousands of resumes each year that are self-defeating. Here are just a few truths to avoid including in your resume if you want to make sure that it doesn't send the wrong message to a prospective employer and make the job search process all that much longer for you:
• Objectives that are off target. It may be completely true that you want to be a full-time accountant at a big Wall Street firm someday. But why are you revealing that information while apply to be the office manager of an interior design firm? Make sure the job you are currently applying for fits the objective you have stated.
• Irrelevant work experience. There's nothing wrong with the fact that you are working a second job as a bartender in order to help pay the bills. However, that experience will not help you earn extra points for that computer software developer position you're seeking. Focus on the jobs you've had that are relevant to the position you are seeking.
• Unusual hobbies or skills. It's possible that by including your love of bird calls or juggling that you'll come across as a bit more "human" and in rare cases, a kindred spirit in the hiring process might call you in simply because of these quirky additions to a resume. More often than not, though, they're only going to turn off the hiring manager, so why risk it?
• Personal information. You may be married or divorced. Perhaps you have two kids and are expecting a third. Have you recently lost 200 pounds or moved in with your partner? None of this information is something that an employer is allowed to ask during the hiring process, so don't offer it in a resume. Not only does it make you appear unprofessional, but it gives them an "excuse" to not bring you in for a follow-up if they don't like what you've offered to share. Save it for Oprah.