How many credentials after a name on a resume?

Dear Debra:

I have my credentials at the top of my resume and cover letter just after my name.  A recruiter told me that this is an overload.  Here is what I show: “Marcia Bolen, MST, PA, BSA, ABA, RTRP, CBM, CDFA, CMA, CFE.”   What do you think?

Thank you,

Marcia

Dear Marcia:

Wow, you have accomplished a lot in your career!

I think it is a long list and not necessary to list all of those items after your name.   Of the ones you show, list the most prestigious and ones most relevant to your goal.  Also, it is not necessary to list your degrees after your name.  I would suggest including: PA and possibly CFE if you are looking for positions as a fraud examiner.  (For our readers not familiar with accounting, PA is Public Accountant and CFE is a Certified Fraud Examiner.)

Things such as Bachelor of Science: Accounting, Master of Science in Taxation, and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, and Registered Tax Return Preparer are essential to include on your resume. However, it is not appropriate to list them after your name.   List your college degrees in the education section of your resume.  List all of your licenses and certifications in a section called, “Licensures and Certifications.” 

The problem with listing nine items after your name is that it is quite long.  Human resources managers may scan those initials and for that reason the high-value credentials after your name could get lost in the crowd of 31 letters. It is better to focus on the high-value credentials most relevant to your career goal.  In your case, the top two or three would be appropriate. Detail the complete list in your resume showing both the initials and the explanation. Here is an example of how you would present one of your certifications: “CFE (Certified Fraud Examiner”

Wishing you continued success in your career!

Deb