Resume Buzzwords and Phrases to Avoid (or Change) Immediately
Your resume or CV is often your first opportunity to make a good impression on potential employers.
However, stocking your resume with clichéd buzzwords and overused phrases can diminish the impact of your achievements and skills.
This article explores why it's crucial to avoid these buzzwords, how to effectively simplify your resume, and what terms to use instead.
We also explore how the experienced recruitment consultants at Barclay Recruitment can guide you in crafting a resume that stands out for the right reasons.
Why You Should Avoid Buzzwords and Cliché Phrases on Your Resume
Lack of Clarity
Buzzwords tend to be vague and can obscure the real meaning of your accomplishments.
Employers look for clear, concise, and genuine descriptions of your experiences and skills.
Overuse Dilutes Impact
Many job seekers use the same buzzwords, making it difficult for your resume to stand out.
When everyone is "innovative" and "a team player," these terms lose their strength.
They Can Seem Inauthentic
Overused buzzwords might make your resume seem insincere or exaggerated.
This can turn off potential employers who prefer straightforward and honest accounts of your professional journey.
Missed Opportunity to Show Real Skills
Buzzwords can prevent you from presenting your actual skills and accomplishments.
Specific examples and quantifiable achievements are much more effective than generic phrases.
Automated Screening Filters
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that are programmed to pick up on specific keywords related to the job.
Buzzwords that are irrelevant to the job description might cause your resume to be overlooked.
How to Avoid or Remove Buzzwords from Your Resume
Replace Generic Phrases with Specifics
Instead of saying you're a "hard worker," describe a situation where you went above and beyond to meet a deadline or solve a complex problem.
Providing context makes your claims more believable and relatable.
Use Action Verbs
Start bullet points with strong action verbs that clearly articulate what you accomplished in each role.
For example, replace "responsible for managing" with "managed" followed by specific details about what you managed and the results.
Quantify Achievements
Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments with numbers, percentages, or specific milestones.
This not only provides clear evidence of your capabilities but also breaks any reliance on vague descriptions.
Get Feedback
Have someone else read your resume to spot any buzzwords or cliches you might have missed.
Sometimes, an external perspective can help refine your language.
Top 10 Common Resume Buzzwords and What to Replace These With
More Overused Buzzwords and Phrases to Avoid
How Barclay Recruitment Can Help
Crafting the perfect resume can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone.
At Barclay Recruitment, we helping job seekers like you refine their resumes to highlight their strengths and achievements without relying on clichéd language.
Our experts recruitment consultants can guide you in identifying the most impactful ways to describe your experiences and skills, ensuring your resume not only reaches the right people but also makes a lasting impression.
Contact Barclay Recruitment today, and let us help you showcase your professional potential through a polished and effective resume.
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