When you describe your past employers in your resume, make it easy for hiring managers and recruiters to understand who you worked for, where and when.
Resumes written to apply for federal jobs must include full contact and reference information for each past employer; but for all other resumes, the name of the company, its general location and the years you worked there are sufficient. For example:
ABC Corporation, St. Louis, MO (1999-2004)
Except for federal resumes, do not include contact information for your past supervisors; you can provide that information later, when the company you are applying to expresses real interest. In the meantime, your supervisors do not want to be interrupted by dozens of requests for information.
Perhaps the company’s name does not clearly explain what the company does; or perhaps details about products and services are important in your industry. In that case, you might want to add a few words to identify the company. For example, in the fashion industry you might want to say, “Specialists in plus sizes in men’s, women’s and children’s outerwear.”
You should not include your reasons for leaving a previous position. There are a very few exceptions. For example, if a buyout occurred and you were retained for even a limited time by the new owners, your retention is a tribute to you and your abilities.
At Robin’s Resumes®, I specialize in knowing what to leave in and what to leave out on the perfect resume. I’m ready to do the same for you.