Do I Have to List Every Job I've Ever Had When Filling Out a Job Application?
In the world of human resources and recruiting, there is such a thing as too much information. When you create your resume or fill out a job application, make it as concise as possible while conveying relevant information. Whether you should list every job you've ever had depends on the job you're seeking, how long you've been in the workforce and if the job you want is similar to the jobs you've had before.
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Long-Term Jobs
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The first jobs you should include on your application or resume are those you have been with the longest. This shows your potential employer that you have staying power and are less likely to quit after a short while. This is especially true if you experienced growth on these jobs: a promotion or a raise for excellence, for example.
Temporary Jobs
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Temporary jobs can be either long-term or short-term. Whether you include temporary work depends on whether the work you performed directly pertains to the job you're seeking. You should also take into consideration the length of time you spent working on the temporary job. If it was less than six months, you do not need to include it and it won't show up on a background check.
If you worked as an intern and your work history is less than five years old, include it on your resume and application. This shows potential employers that you have remained consistent in your career, especially if you have been promoted and gained recognition at previous jobs. Internships that you held more than five years ago are no longer relevant.
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Jobs You Quit without Notice
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If three years ago you walked off the job without notice after only three weeks, do not include it on your resume or application. Walking off the job is a poor choice. Adding a job you walked out of to your application can be detrimental to your job search. Also if you held that job for less than six months, it will only take up space on your resume and add no value to it.
If you held the job you left for more than six months, think about how long ago you worked there. If you have had several jobs since, and have done well, do not include it. If leaving it off your resume creates a significant gap, include it. Previous employers are barred from giving a reason as to why your employment ended; they can only give the dates your employment began and ended.
Jobs from Your Youth
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Twenty years ago, you were a checker at your local grocery store while attending high school. Since then, you've had a few long-term jobs where you included it in your resume. In the past, the person with the longest job history and most experience got the job. In more recent times, the consensus is that including these jobs adds virtually no value to your application and uses up valuable space you could be using for more recent, relevant experience. If you feel you must include experience from your youth, mention it in your cover letter.
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References
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