When writing your CV, you may get sidetracked by what you think the employer wants to hear. This can lead to buzzwords that weakens your resume rather than making it stand out - or at least stand out in a good way!
Keep the following buzzwords out of your CV to avoid getting shortlisted by the hiring manager:
Hard Working
Stating that you are hardworking is not enough to prove your work ethic to potential employers. Instead of using the buzzword, mention times when you went the extra mile for your company. This could be an additional project that led to a promotion. Prove that you are a hard worker. Don’t just state it.
Creative
Would a creative person list that they are creative or show that they are creative on their resume? Most likely, a creative person would find a unique way to depict their creativity.
Creative Opportunities for Resume
- Color Blocking
- Font Choice (but not too wild or hard to read)
- White Space
- Infographics
- Prioritize Information
Strong Communication Skills
Every employer wants an employee with strong communication skills. However, a more professional method to depicting your strong communication skills is to use well-structured sentences, and perfect spelling and grammar. Also, organize your CV so it is easy to read.
Works Well in a Team
A great team player is important for almost every job position. Demonstrate your ability to work well on a team with job descriptions. Include your interaction with co-workers and clients.
For example:
- Format information for internal and external communication – memos, emails, presentations, reports
- Be the point of contact between the executives and company employees/clients and manage information flow
- Screen and direct phone calls and distribute correspondence
Results-Driven
Everything is motivated by needing a result. Therefore, even if we only get out of bed during the day, we are all results-driven. Employers do not want to hear that you are results-driven but HOW you are results-driven.
- Did you create a new program at your previous job leading to an increase in efficiency?
- How did you generate revenue?
- Did you streamline a process?
- What projects did you deliver?
Show your employer tangible facts and figures of how you create results. Don’t just talk about what you did, talk about what was achieved.
Thought Leader
A thought leader is the informed, go-to expert in their field of expertise. Examples of thought-leaders are Steve Jobs, Elon Musk, and Bill Gates. If you are thought leader than you are probably not writing a resume anymore.
A more modest approach would be to explain your expertise in the field, including awards and achievements or any special recognition from your employer or associations.
A great resume can determine whether you receive an interview. The trick is knowing what to include and exclude. Deterring from these cliché buzzwords can help your chances of standing out and getting the job.
