It’s very important to make a good impression when applying for a job, and one of the best ways to do this is through your résumé. However, there are some words and phrases that can be detrimental to your résumé and should be avoided. In this blog, we’ll discuss the words and phrases to never use in a résumé and how to replace them with more effective alternatives.
We’ll also look at the importance of proofreading your résumé and how to make sure it stands out from the crowd. So if you’re looking to make a great impression with your résumé, keep reading to learn which words and phrases to never use.
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Common words and phrases to avoid
When it comes to creating a résumé, one of the most difficult and frustrating tasks can be deciding which words and phrases should and shouldn’t be included. Having a list of words and phrases that should never be used in a résumé can be very valuable in creating a succinct and professional document. First, it is important to be aware of jargon.
Jargon and technical terms can be very important for demonstrating a candidate’s knowledge in related fields, however, jargon should only be used if necessary for the job; too much technical jargon can be seen as confusing and unprofessional. Additionally, buzzwords and clichés can make a candidate seem unoriginal, so any recycled should be avoided.
Words that focus on the job seeker, such as ‘I’ and ‘my’ should also be avoided. A résumé should be focused on showcasing the job seeker’s abilities and skills, not himself.
Instead of using words that focus on the job seeker, words and phrases that demonstrate skill, such as “initiated” and “developed” should be used. Finally, it is important to avoid exaggeration. Any dishonest claims could lead to long-term consequences.
When listing accomplishments or experience, it should either be completely omitted if not relevant or else accurately described. Altogether, ensuring that none of these words and phrases appear on the résumé is important for creating a professional, concise, and honest document.
Not only will these strategies make sure that a résumé does not contain that is frowned upon by employers, but also create an impressive document that will best showcase a job seeker’s qualifications and accomplishments.
Reasons to avoid these words and phrases
As potential employers evaluate résumés to determine the right person for a particular job, it is important to make sure that you use the right words and phrases. Résumés that contain certain words and phrases can be a major turn-off to hiring managers and employers.
To avoid these words and phrases in a résumé will ensure that your résumé stands out among the rest and that you have a better chance at getting the job. To avoid, there are certain words and phrases to never use in a résumé: overly grandiose words and phrases such as ‘amazing’, ‘game changer’, ‘unicorn’, ‘ninja’, and ‘rock star’ are generally frowned upon by employers. These are hackneyed terms that have been overused, and your résumé will make much greater impact if you avoid their use.
Instead, use words such as ‘effectively coordinated’, ‘expertly managed’, ‘consistently successful’, or choose another relevant word that precisely describes your unique experience. The same goes for cliché phrases such as ‘self-starter’, ‘people person’, or ‘motivated individual’.
These are phrases that are easily found on a million other résumés, and they tell the employer nothing new. Instead of using these phrases, it is much better to give a concrete example of a situation in which you spearheaded a project or exercise. For example, instead of saying ‘self-starter’, share that you created and designed a new system for ordering customer feedback that increased customer engagement by X%.
This gives much more insight into your accomplishments than a generic phrase. Ultimately, the words and phrases that you choose to use in your résumé will strongly affect how employers view your candidacy.
It is important to always think about the words and phrases that you are using when writing your résumé and to make sure that you are making a good impression. Avoiding overly grandiose words and phrases, clichés, and generic phrases will help ensure that your résumé is memorable and stands out to employers.
Tips for crafting an effective résumé
When crafting a résumé, there are certain words and phrases you should avoid in order to stand out in the pile of applicant files. Using unprofessional, outdated, or overtly cliché words and phrases can easily disqualify you as a viable candidate. To help job seekers navigate and create an effective resume, here are words and phrases to never use in a résumé:First off, never indicate that you’re applying to the job because you may be laid off from your current position.
Not only does this show a lack of confidence in yourself, but it also makes it seem like you’re desperate. Instead of saying this, focus on the fact that you’re highly motivated to join the team and make an immediate impact.
Second, avoid phrases like “hard worker”, “highly motivated”, and “go-getter” as they come off as generic and overused. A better way to show leadership would be to highlight specific positive experiences that demonstrate your ability to work hard and exceed expectations. Finally, it should go without saying, but don’t copy and paste phrases from other résumés or career websites.
Along with taking the lazy way out, you risk using inaccurate information or cliched words that will make your résumé look generic and dated. Instead, take your time and craft a résumé that is tailored to the job you’re applying for, and be sure to use that is distinct and current.
By avoiding the wrong words and phrases in a résumé, you create a document that will stand out and present you in the best possible light. After all, when it comes to job hunting, every part of your résumé should have a purpose, so don’t let outdated detract from your professionalism.
Examples of good résumé language
As an ideal resume looks like, there are certain words and phrases that should never be used in writing one. Whereas some job seekers may think that including words like “responsible for” or “results-oriented” sound impressive, they can be off-putting to recruiters, who’ve likely seen the same phrases again and again. When putting together your resume, it’s important to use that truly represents your skills and accomplishments – in a manner that is also memorable.
Poor grammar and spelling mistakes, as well as words and phrases that sound too generic, can cause potential employers to disqualify your resume without even reading the contents. Examples of words and phrases to never use in a resume include “highly qualified,” “excellent communication skills,” and “successfully completed.
” Instead, opt for more specific, action-oriented phrases that describe the tangible results you achieved. For instance, instead of stating, “Managed a team,” one could highlight that they “led a team to successfully complete Project X within budget and before deadline. ” Another example could be expressing that they “Identified and rectified anomalies in the budgeting process, and saved the company $x.
” Such examples are more impactful and give recruiters a better understanding of your work and results. In conclusion, choosing the right words and phrases to put in a resume can be an important factor in getting past the initial screening process for employers.
Instead of using stale and overused phrases, it’s best to opt for more direct, specific terms to ensure a more attention-grabbing document.
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Final Touch
This article provides advice on words and phrases to avoid in a résumé. It highlights terms such as “references available upon request” and “team player” that can make a résumé seem cliché and unoriginal. The article encourages job seekers to use strong, concrete that will make their résumé stand out from the competition.
FAQ
What words should be avoided in a résumé?
Words that should be avoided in a résumé include: “I,” “me,” “my,” “am,” and any other pronouns. Additionally, any words or phrases that are overly casual, such as “dope,” “killer,” or “awesome,” should be avoided.
What phrases should be avoided in a résumé?
Phrases such as “I think,” “I believe,” “I feel,” and “I am confident” should be avoided in a résumé. Additionally, any phrases that are overly vague or boastful should be avoided.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a résumé?
Some common mistakes to avoid when writing a résumé include: using incorrect grammar and spelling, including irrelevant information, using an unprofessional email address, not tailoring the résumé to the job description, not including enough detail, and using an unprofessional format.
What are some tips for writing a professional résumé?
1. Make sure your résumé is tailored to the job you are applying for. 2. Use a professional font and layout. 3. Include relevant work experience, skills, and education. 4. Use active language and avoid using pronouns. 5. Highlight your accomplishments and quantify your achievements. 6. Proofread your résumé for any spelling or grammar errors. 7. Keep your résumé to one page. 8. Avoid using generic phrases and clichés. 9. Include a cover letter. 10. Make sure your résumé is up-to-date.
How can I make sure my résumé stands out from the competition?
To make sure your résumé stands out from the competition, focus on making it as clear, concise, and visually appealing as possible. Highlight your unique skills and accomplishments, and make sure to tailor your résumé to the job you are applying for. Additionally, make sure to proofread your résumé for any typos or errors.
What are some best practices for formatting a résumé?
Some best practices for formatting a résumé include using a professional font, such as Arial or Times New Roman; using clear, concise language; and ensuring that the résumé is no longer than two pages. Additionally, it is important to include relevant information such as education, work experience, and skills, and to highlight any accomplishments or awards. Finally, it is important to proofread the résumé for any typos or errors.
