« The STAR interviewing technique | Main | Global Warming Available Now »

July 20, 2006

25 words that hurt your CV

I wonder if any of these words appears on your CV:

  • Aggressive
  • Ambitious
  • Competent
  • Creative
  • Detail-oriented
  • Determined
  • Efficient
  • Experienced
  • Flexible
  • Goal-oriented
  • Hard-working
  • Independent
  • Innovative
  • Knowledgeable
  • Logical
  • Motivated
  • Meticulous
  • People person
  • Professional
  • Reliable
  • Resourceful
  • Self-motivated
  • Successful
  • Team player
  • Well-organized

    If so, you may be sending unwanted signals to an employer.
    (see CNN.COM)


    Vaguely positive words and phrases such as these, are increasingly seen as empty and valueless, according to Scott Bennett, author of "The Elements of Resume Style." They flag up to employers that you might just be full of *BS*

    You would do better to replace them with your specific accomplishments. Show don't tell.

    SO
    Instead of... "Experience working in fast-paced environment"
    Try... "Registered 120+ third-shift emergency patients per night"

    Instead of... "Excellent written communication skills"
    Try... "Wrote jargon-free User Guide for 11,000 users"

    Instead of... "Team player with cross-functional awareness"
    Try... "Collaborated with clients, A/R and Sales to increase speed of receivables and prevent interruption of service to clients."

    Instead of... "Demonstrated success in analysing client needs"
    Try... "Created and implemented comprehensive needs assessment mechanism to help forecast demand for services and staffing."

    Posted by Mark at July 20, 2006 03:52 PM

    Comments

    Post a comment




    Remember Me?


    •