"REASON FOR LEAVING: Believed the world was coming to an end. Since it did not happen, I am again ready to enter the workplace."
Giving reasons for leaving previous jobs is better left for the interview, should the question arise. Still, it's a common subject line on many resumes.
"REASON FOR LEAVING: After 12 satisfactory years, I resigned in order to accept a one-year student fellowship in Hungary. Besides keeping busy with my studies, I read a meter of books and saw lots of puppet shows."
No doubt he now seeks an offer with no strings attached.
If you do include reasons for leaving on a resume, avoid criticizing your former colleagues and company. It will make you look unprofessional.
Personal details on a resume can also work against you. Here are some examples.
"PERSONAL: Attempt to join the Army — rejected."
"PERSONAL: One wife." I'm sure she's relieved to hear it.
Max Messmer is chairman and CEO of Robert Half International Inc., a specialized staffing firm, and author of Job Hunting for Dummies.