If you are applying for a job you want your resume to stand out, and step one is to avoid using the buzz words that everybody else is using. They’re boring and writing that you are creative actually shows a lack of creativity. Rather than using meaningless phrases, link your skills to results that show you are competent. These are 25 words that you should not use on your resume.
Ninja (programming ninja, management ninja, etc)
Source: finance.yahoo.com, Image: pixabayIt used to be cute, it’s not anymore.
Rock Star
Source: resumegenius.com, Image: pixabaySee #25.
Dynamic
Source: businessinsider.comTypically when people use this it doesn’t mean anything. It’s just filler that sounds good.
Experienced
Source: mashable.comYou should let your resume do the talking
Guru
Source: finance.yahoo.com, Image: wikimedia.orgIt’s in the same boat as ninja and rock star.
Try
Image Source: yapsnaps @ flickr.com Source: jobs.aol.comThere is no try. Only do.
Problem Solver
Source: finance.yahoo.comDon’t just say you solve problems. Rather, state how you solve problems?
Goal Oriented
Source: businessinsider.com, Image: commons.wikimedia.orgSo you’re doing better than the average high school student. Be more specific.
Self Starter
Source: smarttalent.netLike some other words on this list, this is way too overused.
Stubborn
Source: thecareerexperts.com, Image: commons.wikimedia.orgTry resilient instead.
Effective
Source: buzzfeed.comYou better be effective, isn’t that a given?
Quick Learner
Source: mashable.comCould you please give a quick example?
Responsible
Source: resumedictionary.comOf course you’re responsible. Now prove it by discussing what you have actually been responsible for.
Capable
Source: huffingtonpost.comAs with many of the meaningless adjectives on this list, employers often see it as meaningless filler. No doubt you’re going to describe yourself as capable…who wouldn’t?
Creative
Source: mycareerblast.comIt’s not a bad word to have on your resume but avoid using it to describe yourself. Rather say something like you worked with creative colleagues.
Results oriented
Source: finance.yahoo.comAnother overused phrase. Replace it with a descriptive phrase like “making sure that the results were met”.
Communication skills
Source: jobs.aol.comEvery human has communication skills and furthermore you don’t need to mention something that everyone puts on their resume already.
Motivated
Source: businessinsider.comIt’s similar to “results oriented”. Say something like “learning new things motivates me”.
Skillful
Source: mashable.comThis is something you shouldn’t have to say. Your resume should speak for itself.
Hard Working
Source: buzzfeed.comHard working is good, but the phrase is once again overused. Try to find another phrase that describes how hard working you are.
Scalable
Source: jobs.aol.comWhat does that even mean? Are you a database?
Innovative
Source: businessinsider.comIf you really are innovative then you shouldn’t be using this word on your resume. Innovate and find another way to impress.
Familiar with
Source: salary.comThis is a red flag. It doesn’t really express confidence in your ability. If you’re not confident with something, don’t mention it.
Reliable
Source: career-advice.monster.comSo you show up on time? Do the bare minimum? Everybody can be reliable, once again, explain how.
Team player
Source: businessinsider.comYou better be a team player, that goes without saying.
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