Find a Job You Really Want In
Crafting a resume can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to articulating your skills and experiences accurately.
Understanding industry-specific language can be particularly difficult, making it hard to identify which terms will resonate with hiring managers and highlight your qualifications effectively.
These impactful terms, often referred to as “buzzwords,” can help your resume stand out amid a competitive pool of applicants.
However, many buzzwords become clichés over time, transforming from useful descriptors into a double-edged sword. While they may initially capture attention, overuse can lead to perceptions of insincerity and lack of originality.
So, how can you determine which buzzwords to incorporate into your resume and which to avoid?
Fortunately, we’ve compiled some essential tips to guide you in making these decisions.
Contents
- 1. Why Some Resume Buzzwords Can Sink Your Chances
- 2. Resume Buzzwords to Avoid
- 3. What Should You Do Instead?
1. Why Some Resume Buzzwords Can Sink Your Chances
When crafting your resume, it’s crucial to remember that countless other candidates are vying for the same role.
This competition may tempt you to search online for buzzwords that catch the attention of hiring managers.
Research indicates that specific keywords can enhance your visibility, especially if your resume is processed by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) before a recruiter reviews it. In fact, we have an article dedicated to this topic.
Thus, integrating relevant buzzwords into your resume can be beneficial—until it isn’t.
So, when does it stop being effective? This largely depends on the preferences of the individual hiring manager reviewing your application.
However, there are steps you can take to ensure your resume avoids common pitfalls.
2. Resume Buzzwords to Avoid
In general, it’s prudent to use buzzwords judiciously.
Incorporating a few industry-relevant keywords can demonstrate your knowledge and engagement with the field.
However, overloading your resume with buzzwords can backfire, making it appear cluttered and insincere.
As a guideline, opt for buzzwords that you fully understand. Misusing terms can lead to confusion about your qualifications.
While the most overused buzzwords can vary by industry, some terms have become universally recognized as ineffective:
- Passionate: It’s more impactful to demonstrate your passion through your achievements rather than stating it outright.
- Expert: This term implies extensive experience. Unless you have a significant background in a field, this descriptor may come off as exaggerated.
- Detail-Oriented: This is assumed by employers; stating it adds no value to your application.
- Great Communicator: A true communicator would express this without resorting to clichés.
- Creative: If creativity is your only descriptor, it may suggest a lack of concrete examples.
- Hardworking: Employers will gauge your work ethic from your performance, not just your assertion of it.
3. What Should You Do Instead?
What do all these buzzwords have in common?
They lack specificity—they fail to provide meaningful insight into your skills or experience. Instead of summarizing your qualifications, they diminish your individuality.
Moreover, these terms have become so commonplace that they blend into a sea of sameness.
To avoid this trap, consider the following strategies:
- Be specific! If you possess a particular skill—such as proficiency with a programming language—list it explicitly. Instead of stating that you’re a “good communicator,” detail your communication abilities.
- Highlight your direct experiences. Provide concrete examples of your work and achievements.
- Avoid passive voice and third-person language; using action verbs can help you focus on describing your actions and contributions.
Wrapping Up: Resume Power Phrases You Should Avoid
In conclusion, remember this when drafting your resume:
If a particular word stands out to you, reflect on why it resonates. It may be a perfect fit—or perhaps it’s just a term you’ve heard countless times before.
When in doubt, strive for creativity and authenticity.
Best of luck! Here are additional resources to support your job search:
3 Tips for Writing Resume Objectives for Entry-Level Jobs
3 Tips for Deciding When to Use a Two-Page Resume
3 Big Tips For (Avoiding) Lying On Your Resume
Author
Ryan Morris was a writer for the Zippia Advice blog who tried to make the job process a little more entertaining for all those involved. He obtained his BA and Masters from Appalachian State University.
