When constructing your resume, it's crucial to steer clear of common buzzwords that may not effectively showcase your skills and accomplishments to potential employers. While it can be tempting to use trendy or general terms to try to stand out, it's best to focus on specific keywords and quantifiable achievements that truly highlight your abilities. In this article, we'll take a closer look at seven buzzwords to avoid on your resume, provide alternative phrases to use, and offer advice for creating a standout CV.
What exactly are buzzwords?
Buzzwords are broad, trendy terms and phrases that are not specific to any particular industry or role. They are often used interchangeably in job histories or professional summaries on resumes. While candidates may include buzzwords in their CVs to catch the attention of recruiters and hiring managers, these terms may not effectively communicate their actual skills and qualities.
How do keywords differ from buzzwords?
In contrast to buzzwords, keywords are specific to a particular industry or role and provide relevant information about a candidate's job-related experience, education, and qualifications. Employers often look for specific keywords when reviewing resumes to ensure that candidates have the necessary skills for the position. While it's important to tailor your resume with relevant keywords for each job application, it's crucial to avoid using generic buzzwords and vague language that may not accurately represent your abilities and accomplishments.
Seven resume buzzwords to avoid
1. Quick learner
While it may be tempting to highlight your ability to learn quickly, simply stating that you are a "quick learner" does not provide specific examples of how you have acquired new skills or knowledge in the past. Instead of using this generic phrase, consider providing concrete examples of how you have mastered new skills or concepts in previous roles.
Examples: - Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and apply new software programs, resulting in increased productivity. - Successfully completed a training program in a new technology within a short timeframe.
2. Experienced professional
Using the term "experienced professional" on your resume does not provide any meaningful information about your qualifications or expertise in a particular field. Instead of relying on generic terms, focus on describing your specific experience and accomplishments in a clear and concise manner.
Example: - Managed a team of sales professionals, resulting in a 20% increase in revenue year-over-year.
3. Successful track record
While it's important to showcase your achievements on your resume, simply stating that you have a "successful track record" does not provide concrete evidence of your accomplishments. Instead of making vague claims, quantify your results and provide specific examples of how you have contributed to the success of previous projects or initiatives.
Example: - Achieved a 95% customer satisfaction rating through effective client management strategies.
4. Hard-working
Employers value strong work ethic, but simply stating that you are a "hard-working" individual does not distinguish you from other candidates. Instead of using this overused term, focus on highlighting your results and accomplishments to demonstrate your productivity and time management skills.
Example: - Completed a high-volume project ahead of schedule, exceeding project goals by 15%.
5. Handles pressure well
While many jobs require the ability to work under pressure, simply stating that you "handle pressure well" is a common buzzword that may not effectively showcase your problem-solving skills. Instead, provide specific examples of how you have successfully managed stressful situations and achieved positive outcomes.
Example: - Successfully met tight deadlines on a project despite unexpected challenges, showcasing resilience and adaptability.
6. Familiar with X technology
Merely stating that you are "familiar with" a particular technology or application may not accurately reflect your level of proficiency or experience with that tool. Instead of using vague language, emphasize your hands-on experience and specific accomplishments related to the technology.
Example: - Developed and implemented a new customer relationship management system, resulting in a 30% increase in client retention.
7. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Communication and interpersonal skills are essential in many roles, but stating that you have "excellent" abilities in these areas may not effectively communicate your strengths to potential employers. Instead of making general claims, provide specific examples of how you have effectively communicated with colleagues, clients, or stakeholders.
Example: - Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy, resulting in a successful product launch.
In conclusion, when crafting your resume, it's essential to avoid using common buzzwords that may not effectively showcase your skills and accomplishments to potential employers. Instead, focus on using specific keywords and quantifiable achievements to highlight your experience and qualifications. By providing concrete examples of your achievements and abilities, you can create a standout CV that will grab the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.