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cv advice - mentioning books in resume

 
Greenhorn
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In my "Activities and Interests" section I have mentioned that I like to read blogs and study books to keep my skills up to date. Mentioning that Clean Code by Uncle Bob is my favourite book. Mainly because I want to get across that Bob's approach to "Clean Code" is what I strive to replicate when I am coding.

Is this a bad idea? I have never seen books mentioned in a CV before. Would there be other ways of getting my attitude towards coding across to the reader?
 
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Please check your private messages for an important administrative issue.
 
Ranch Hand
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Maybe others don't agree with Uncle Bob's opinions about coding. Maybe they really dislike Uncle Bob... and maybe they won't like you simply because you try to emulate Uncle Bob.

A better way to convey this would be to share it verbally in conversation, in my opinion.
 
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Raoul,
I've never seen that done either. Can you work your "clean code" outlook into an accomplishment elsewhere in the resume? Presumably you have coding as an item you've done at a job. Can you describe it a bit?
 
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I don't think it is a bad idea. But be prepared to elaborate on it at the job interview. It is better than not having anything to show that you are keen to write clean code.

As Jeanne had suggested, it can be approached differently by relating to your on the job achievements. Reading is one thing and knowing how to and where to apply is another thing.For example,


-- Achieved thumbs-up in code review sessions .... at XYZ Pty Ltd

 
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http://in.yfittopostblog.com/2010/11/19/50-keywords-that-can-ruin-your-resume/

Though I only partially agree with the article.
 
Spencer Fingleton
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Maybe others don't agree with Uncle Bob's opinions about coding. Maybe they really dislike Uncle Bob... and maybe they won't like you simply because you try to emulate Uncle Bob.



I actually decided to remove the book comment from my CV. It would be a good talking point in an interview but just the idea of it stopping me from getting an interview due to the fact that, as lovely as Uncle Bob might be, he will not be everyone's cup of tea.

I could mention books in the interview and I guess that would lead to a brief chat about my fav books. And, I could mention it then and be prepared to defend my outlook. Actually, there are a few areas in his book that even I dont agree with, I think he can be a bit over zealous with his approach sometimes. The only reason why it's my fav book is that, out of all the books in my collection, this is the one that developed my sense for looking at a bit of code and being able to say if its good/bad code.

On a side note, I have two interviews next week with a large investment bank and an advertiser
 
arulk pillai
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Any one can come up with the buzz words like "I am a great coder", etc. Good resumes need to substantiate why you are a good coder with proper examples.

Since you are getting interviews, it shows your resume is being well received. Good luck with your interviews.

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