How To Write a Dead Person’s Name in a Resume: Navigating a Delicate Situation

When crafting a resume, the focus is typically on showcasing your achievements and experience. However, sometimes you face the unexpected challenge of needing to include the name of a deceased individual. This might be in relation to a company you worked for, a reference, or a project they were involved in. It’s a sensitive situation, and it requires a thoughtful approach. This guide provides clear, practical advice on how to handle this delicate aspect of resume writing, ensuring you maintain professionalism and respect.

Understanding the Context: Why Include a Deceased Person’s Name?

Before you start writing, it’s vital to understand why you need to include a deceased person’s name. The context dictates the best approach. Is it essential for clarity, or can the information be conveyed in a different way? Common scenarios include:

• Previous Employer: If the deceased was the founder or a key figure at a company you worked for, omitting their name might be impossible or misleading, especially if the company is well known.
• Project Lead or Mentor: If the deceased person was crucial to a project you worked on, or served as a mentor who significantly influenced your career, their name might be vital for providing context.
• Reference: If a deceased individual was a reference, you might need to acknowledge this fact and provide alternative contact information.

Option 1: Mentioning the Deceased Person in Your Work Experience

This is the most common scenario. You need to include the name to give context to your role or accomplishments. Here’s how to do it effectively:

Subheading: Clearly Indicate the Deceased Person’s Role and Status

Within your work experience section, if the deceased was a founder, CEO, or significant leader, state their role and, if relevant, when they passed away. For example:

• “Worked on the ‘Project Phoenix’ initiative under the guidance of [Deceased Person’s Name], Founder and CEO (Deceased 2022), resulting in…”

This approach is direct, informative, and respectful. It also clearly communicates the context of your experience.

Subheading: Focusing on the Impact, Not Just the Name

Focus on the impact the deceased person had on the company or project. Don’t dwell on their passing. Instead, highlight what you learned or achieved under their leadership or guidance. For instance:

• “Contributed to the successful launch of [Product Name] under the direction of [Deceased Person’s Name], Head of Marketing (Deceased 2023), resulting in a 20% increase in sales within the first quarter.”

Option 2: Handling References When the Reference is Deceased

This scenario requires a slightly different approach.

Subheading: Acknowledging the Deceased Reference

If a deceased person was listed as a reference, you must acknowledge this. You can do so in your references section or, if the reference is important, within the relevant section of your experience. For instance:

• “References: Available upon request. Note: [Deceased Person’s Name] (Deceased 2023), was previously listed as a reference. Alternative contacts are available from [Name of Company/Organization] HR Department.”

This informs the potential employer while providing a practical solution.

Subheading: Providing Alternative Contact Information

The most crucial step is to provide alternative contact information. This could be:

• A colleague who worked closely with you and the deceased person.
• The company’s HR department.
• Another supervisor or manager.

Ensure you have permission from the alternative contact before listing them.

Option 3: Addressing the Deceased Person in Awards or Recognition

Sometimes, a deceased person played a key role in an award or recognition you received.

Subheading: Acknowledging Guidance and Support

If you received an award or recognition that was directly linked to the support or guidance of the deceased person, it’s appropriate to acknowledge their contribution. For instance:

• “Awarded ‘Employee of the Year’ for the successful completion of [Project Name], under the mentorship and guidance of [Deceased Person’s Name] (Deceased 2024).”

Subheading: Focusing on Achievements and Their Context

The emphasis should remain on your achievements, but giving context to the deceased person’s influence is important. Focus on the positive impact of their leadership or guidance.

Writing Style and Tone: Maintaining Respect and Professionalism

Regardless of the context, your writing style is paramount.

Subheading: Keep it Concise and Factual

Avoid overly sentimental language. Keep your statements concise, factual, and professional. Focus on what the person did, not how you feel about their passing.

Subheading: Use Proper Formatting and Grammar

Ensure your resume is free of grammatical errors and typos. This demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. Pay close attention to proper punctuation, especially when referring to a deceased person.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls: What To Do (and Not Do)

Subheading: Avoid Overly Detailed Information About the Death

While acknowledging the death is necessary, do not provide unnecessary details about how the person died. This is irrelevant to your qualifications and could be seen as inappropriate.

Subheading: Do Not Include a Eulogy

Your resume is not the place for a eulogy. Keep your focus on your professional experience and achievements.

Subheading: Be Prepared to Elaborate During an Interview

Be prepared to answer questions about the deceased person during an interview. Be respectful and brief in your responses. Focus on their professional contributions and your relationship with them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I be sure I’m not overstepping any boundaries?

The best approach is to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure about including a deceased person’s name, consider whether the information is truly essential. If it’s not, it might be better to omit it.

What if the deceased person’s family is still working at the company?

In this case, extra sensitivity is required. Consider reaching out to a trusted colleague or the HR department to get their guidance on how best to proceed.

Is it ever inappropriate to mention a deceased person’s name?

It would generally be inappropriate to name a deceased person if it is not directly related to your job or the specific experience you are trying to highlight. Avoid doing so out of respect and concern for their family.

Can I use the deceased person’s name in my cover letter?

Yes, but only if it is relevant to the job and your application. For example, if you’re applying to a company and the deceased person was a significant figure there, you might mention their name in the context of your interest in the company.

What if the company has changed its name since the deceased person was involved?

Be sure to include the company’s name at the time the deceased person was associated with the company. You can then include the current company name if needed. For example: “Worked at [Original Company Name, now known as Current Company Name]”

Conclusion: Navigating the Sensitive Terrain of Resume Writing

Writing about a deceased person in a resume is a sensitive undertaking, but it can be managed professionally and respectfully. By understanding the context, choosing the right approach, maintaining a professional tone, and focusing on the relevant information, you can navigate this delicate situation effectively. Remember to prioritize clarity, accuracy, and respect for the deceased and their family. When faced with this situation, thoughtful planning and careful execution are key.