Resume Words That
Impress Employers
The language you use in your resume has a direct impact on how employers perceive your capabilities and professionalism. Strong, precise language conveys confidence and competence, while weak or vague phrasing can undermine an otherwise impressive application.
Use Strong Action Verbs
Begin each bullet point with a powerful action verb that clearly communicates what you did. Words such as "delivered," "led," "negotiated," "implemented," "developed," "transformed," and "achieved" are far more impactful than passive constructions like "was responsible for."
Quantify Where Possible
Numbers and percentages make your achievements concrete and credible. Phrases such as "increased revenue by 22%," "managed a portfolio of 40 clients," or "reduced processing time by three days" immediately demonstrate real-world impact.
Industry-Relevant Terminology
Using the correct terminology for your industry signals that you are a credible professional. Research common language used in job descriptions for your target roles and incorporate it naturally into your resume.
Words and Phrases to Avoid
Avoid overused, non-specific phrases such as "passionate," "detail-oriented," "go-getter," and "synergy." These terms appear on nearly every resume and provide no meaningful information to the reader.
Keep Language Formal and Consistent
Your resume should be written without personal pronouns and in a consistent tense. Use past tense for previous roles and present tense for your current position.
The words you choose in your resume reflect how you think and communicate. Select them with intention, and your resume will convey both capability and professionalism.