Words are the name of the game when it comes to resumes, and job seekers need to be strategic in their choice of them. Many of us often use keywords on our resumes, but how do you know which words to choose and which ones to leave out? In answer to those questions, we’ve compiled a brief list of some of the most overused words on resumes. Avoid them whenever possible and choose a more creative alternatives. After knowing which words to avoid, you’ll be ready to construct an eye-catching resume.
1. Accomplished. Yes, we all know every job seeker is accomplished, otherwise you would have been fired from every job you’d ever had if you never accomplished anything. Instead try: peak performer.
2. Results-Driven. Everyone’s professional resume starts out with “Results-driven (insert your job title here)”. The only problem is, in the job-search game you don’t want to sound like everyone else; you want to stand out from the crowd. Instead try: performance-driven.
3. Successful. This is another overused word. We all want to communicate how successful we’ve been so a new employer will think highly of us, but consider some alternative wording versus coming out and saying “hey there, I’m a success.” Instead try: best in class, award-winning, or top performer.
4. Skillful or Skilled. These are so boring; I hate to see resumes with these words on them. I’m sure you can come up with something much more creative for your resume. If you can’t think of anything, try my recommendations, or if you don’t like them use a thesaurus. Instead try: talented, sharp, or resourceful.
