What Words Work (or Don’t Work) on Your Resume
Not so good playing around with words? Well, let me give you a hand. Writing great resumes is my expertise after all!
By using powerful adjectives, you can tickle the imagination and put a spotlight on your resume. Don’t just plainly make a statement; remember your goal is to impress, so do exactly just that! Use action words or power words that can better describe what you do and what you have accomplished.
Have you seen a resume written based on resume wizards? Compare those with customized resumes and you’d be introduced to a whole new definition of mediocre and brilliant pieces.
Here are some action words used by top resume writers:
Collaborated, Created, Demonstrated, Achieved, Awarded, Conceptualized, Facilitated, Granted, Instigated, Negotiated, Spearheaded, Maximized, Monitored and Organized
Don’t these words sound much better than Handled, Participated or Responsible for?
These action words can be found over the Internet. Choose words that emphasize or define your job functions. Use stronger, more striking words over weak ones. Avoid long winded sentences; keep your sentences short but make sure the idea is complete. In the end the job descriptions you listed should make an impact.
Aside from using action verbs, you should carefully insert industry-specific keywords related to the position you’re pursuing. Most employers use scanning software now, so it would be smart to utilize industry terms or buzzwords usually searched by HR professionals.
Also, if you’re planning to use big words, you have to make sure that you can back up whatever word you used. Yes, some people like to exaggerate however in this case, it’s important that your audience can understand what you are saying without thinking you are trying too hard.
As an exercise, think about a situation where you have proven bravery in a difficult situation. Let’s say, you came across a huge dog on your way home, which started barking and looked like it was ready to bite. If asked how you proved your bravery, you don’t just say I just stood very still. Instead say I stood firm and growled back at the dog until he ran away.
Doesn’t that sound so much better? Now do the same for your resume. Tell your story with a little panache. I guarantee you’ll make the phone ring in no time!
Tags: how to write a resume, job duties, job history in resume, job skills, job tips, Personal Branding, resume review, resume tips, resumes, top resume tips, write a resume
