Should I Include Salary or Reasons for Leaving on My Resume?

May 19, 2025 | Career Tips, Job Searching, Job Searching at 50+, Job Searching Online, Resume Writing

How should I handle sensitive information like previous salary or reasons for leaving jobs? Do they go on the resume?

QUESTION: How should I handle sensitive information like previous salary or reasons for leaving jobs? Do they go on the resume?

 

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Cheryl Minnick, University of Montana

Salary and reason for leaving a job are not included in a resume, yet they may be inquired about by the hiring manager in an interview or on a job application. For a salary inquiry, it is acceptable to write “N/A” or “000” if a numerical response is required. Reasons for leaving a job may be “new opportunity” or “career growth” which reflect being invited to leave and leaving voluntarily.
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Lynne Williams, Career News Today

Salary info usually stays off resumes, except if required for a government resume. Don’t list reasons for leaving, especially if fired or flagged as a “low performer.” If a public layoff made headlines, you may include you were part of the downsize. In interviews, stay positive and don’t burn bridges. Focus your resume on impact, keywords, and quantifiable results: dollars, numbers, percentages.

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