The Ten Most Overused Words on LinkedIn

An effective track record of dynamic communication skills begins with motivated problem solving. Did that sentence make your eyes glaze over? That’s because it included six of the most overused buzzwords of the year, according to a new list compiled by LinkedIn. The networking site released its list of the 10 most tired words and phrases spotted in its profiles. Are you guilty of employing any of these career cliches in your resume or cover letter? In a tribute to the classic Women Laughing Alone with Salad, we’ve paired them with stock photos of women smiling with resumes.

1. “Creative”

If you’re using a cliche, you’re not creative. It’s kind of like people who say they’re “funny” on dating-site profiles—instead of actually making jokes and being funny.

2. “Organizational”

“Banish buzzwords from your profile,” LinkedIn’s Nicole Williams advises. This one, like the others on the list, just doesn’t convey much concrete information.

3. “Effective”

Unlike all those other people on LinkedIn who brag about being ineffective...

4. “Extensive Experience”

As opposed to “meager experience”?

5. “Track Record”

Another serviceable phrase that has become cliche.

Five other overused words on LinkedIn!

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