Words are the name of the game when it comes to resumes and you need to be strategic in your choice of them. So how do you know which words to choose and which ones to leave out? Here is a brief list of some of the most overused words on resumes.
Accomplished.
Yes, we know as a job seeker you are accomplished, otherwise you would be fired
from every job you’ve ever had if you never accomplished anything. USE: Peak Performer.
Results-Driven. Many
resumes start with Results-Driven plus.. (Insert your job title here). In the
job search game you don’t want to sound like everyone else. You want to stand
out from the crowd. USE: Performance-Driven.
Successful. We all
want to communicate how successful we’ve been so a new employer will think
highly of us. Look at alternative wording versus just coming out and saying hey
– hire me, I’m a success! USE: Best In
Class, Award-Winning, or Top-Performer.
Skillful or Skilled. Very boring combination. An employer needs more information so be
creative. If you can’t think of anything use a thesaurus to generate better
descriptors. USE: Talented, Sharp, or
Resourceful.
Problem-Solver. If
you’re human, you are a problem solver. Does
it really need to be said on your resume? USE: Troubleshooter,
Forward-Thinking, or Visionary Leader.
Dedicated and Dependable. Spice up your resume with attributes that add value,
not that you area good follower. USE:
High-Potential, Quality-Driven, and Dynamic.
There are other words and phrases but this list tends to be the most
repetitive. Remember to use words that highlight what you have to offer and
leave a lasting impression.
About Jessica
Jessica Holbrook is a former Executive Hiring Manager for Fortune 500 companies
and President/CEO of Great Resumes Fast. She creates powerful, customized, and
targeted resumes that are guaranteed to get her clients interviews. For a free
resume analysis visit http://www.greatresumesfast.com or
for a free phone consultation call 1.877.875.7706.
-Thanks Jessica. Today more than ever job seekers need to deliver a crisp,
focused resume. Ensuring that the words used reflect the best traits is essential
to standing above the crowd.
What do others think? Any other over-used terms you can think of?
