When it comes to crafting a standout resume, it’s important to avoid using generic buzzwords that do little to showcase your unique skills and experiences to potential employers. While keywords can help tailor your resume to specific job postings, buzzwords can often come across as cliché and unoriginal. In this article, we’ll explore seven common buzzwords to avoid on your resume, offer four alternative words or phrases to use instead, and provide tips for creating an impressive CV that will catch the attention of hiring managers.
What exactly are buzzwords? Buzzwords are general terms and phrases that are often used interchangeably in a resume’s job history or professional summary. While they may help candidates feel more confident about their qualifications, they don’t necessarily provide a clear picture of their actual talents and abilities. In contrast, keywords are specific terms that are related to a particular industry or role and are used to attract the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.
To stand out from the competition, it’s essential to avoid overused buzzwords on your resume. Here are seven buzzwords to steer clear of:
1. Quick learner: While it’s important to highlight your ability to pick up new skills, simply stating that you’re a “quick learner” doesn’t provide any concrete evidence of your learning pace. Instead, provide examples of times when you rapidly acquired new knowledge or skills.
2. Experienced professional: Employers value industry expertise, but simply describing yourself as an “experienced professional” doesn’t give them any insight into your specific qualifications. Be sure to use clear and concise language to convey your experience effectively.
3. Successful track record: Instead of making vague statements about your success, quantify your achievements on your resume to demonstrate your track record. For example, if you consistently receive high customer satisfaction ratings in your current role, be sure to include specific metrics or results.
4. Hard-working: While a strong work ethic is important, employers are more interested in seeing tangible results. Focus on showcasing your productivity and time management skills, rather than simply stating that you’re a “hard worker.”
5. Handles pressure well: Many jobs require the ability to perform under pressure, so stating that you “handle pressure well” is a common claim that may not set you apart from other candidates. Instead, provide specific examples of times when you excelled in high-pressure situations.
6. Knows a tech or app: Simply stating that you are familiar with a particular technology or application may not be enough to demonstrate your proficiency. Instead, use action verbs to show how you have used technology in previous roles or projects.
7. Excellent interpersonal or communication skills: Communication and interpersonal skills are essential in almost any role, but simply claiming to have “excellent” abilities may not be convincing to employers. Instead, provide specific examples of how you have effectively communicated in a professional setting.
In summary, by avoiding these common buzzwords and using specific, quantifiable language to highlight your skills and achievements, you can create a resume that stands out to potential employers. Remember to tailor your resume to each job posting by using relevant keywords and providing concrete examples of your qualifications. With a well-crafted resume, you can increase your chances of landing that dream job.