Does your email address really matter?

Creating a professional resume is very important. We are all aware that this document must be error free, it must contain key words that relate to your industry, it must grab the reader's attention, etc.

These things are all important, but I have seen resumes that contain good content put in the do not call pile because of the person's email address.

This is a topic that I have discussed on numerous with groups of people (especially college students) and it is always interesting to hear their feedback.

I've received comments such as:

• My email address should not matter if I am qualified to do the job.


• If my resume was put in the do not call pile because of that reason, it was not meant for me to work there.


• My email address is not a reflection of who I am professionally.

The items noted above may sound reasonable to some, but in the real-world, these things matter. If you are looking for a job or exploring other professional opportunities, please ensure that you understand what I call the email factor.

I recommend that you do not put an unprofessional email address on your resume or any other professional documents, just to prove a point. I have seen email addresses such as sexylady@123.com, Canttouchthis@123.com and last but not least longleggz@123.com.

These email addresses are fine to use for your own personal use, but when using them, you must be mindful of your audience. Be smart and play the game. Create a separate email account for all professional opportunities, especially if you are looking for a job or looking to do business with someone. You may think that your email is not a reflection on you and what you represent, but it is.

Do not give a possible employer or a potential business partner, etc., any reason to put your resume in the do not call pile.