At the large institution where I'm employed--I coordinate two programs and direct a third--I see a great many resumes. But they come through an organizational process during which all formatting is stripped down to a bare minimum. Everything comes to those of us making hiring decisions left justified.

An applicant who leaves a statement about references off the end of his or her resume appears to us as someone who has sent an incomplete resume, indicating an inability to complete work. In fact, we expect at least three references to be listed.

We do expect you to know something about us and for that to be indicated in the resume. We want to know how resourceful you are, and that needs to be indicated by a display of your knowledge about our organization and the position for which you are applying.

The constant use of first person is like going on a blind date with someone who constantly talks about him- or herself. Not likely leading to a second.