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The types of words you use in your resume and cover letter matter. These are your first touchpoints with hiring managers and search committees, and with only a short timeframe to pique their interest (6-7 seconds on average), you’ll want to clearly communicate the value you can bring to their institution.
There are many words and phrases that are overused in the job sphere, to the point of losing their value, while others can help your resume stand out from the crowd. Here are some types of words and phrases to avoid and suggested replacements.
1. “Responsible for”: This phrase is a recipe for disaster because it sets you up only to discuss your job duties. What matters more to employers is your results and impact on the organization.
What to say instead: Focus on writing bullet points that describe your achievements in the position. Incorporate measurable results that speak to your value as an employee. What lasting impact(s) did you make for your team? Depending on your role, you may be able to add revenue or sales generated, budgets managed, percentage change, or workload quantifiers.
2. Self-promotional phrases, buzzwords, or cliches like “self-starter”: Words like go-getter, self-starter, and team player are too vague and can’t be trusted since anyone can self-describe.
What to say instead: You are better off writing a bullet point about what you did that made you a self-starter — did you spearhead the search for a new LMS? Did you implement a new orientation process? Instead of “team player,” talk about a time that you successfully collaborated. “Show, don’t tell” is the golden rule.
3. Skills that are a given, such a proficiency in Microsoft Office: Recruiters may only spend a few seconds scanning your resume. Don’t let them waste time on details that should be a given if you’re applying for the job.
What to say instead: When you’re preparing your resume, consider the position of interest. Remove anything in your skills section that can already be assumed. Use that extra space for something that will “wow” hiring managers. The exception? If particular software familiarity is listed as a job requirement or preference, be sure to include it if it’s a skill you possess.
4. “Familiarity with”: Again, the name of the game is “show, don’t tell.” Listing that you are familiar with a certain technology will never be as strong as demonstrating what you used the technology to achieve.
What to say instead: Instead of “familiar with DonorPerfect,” consider “Used DonorPerfect to cultivate and steward relationships with more than 10,000 annual donors.”
5. Weak action verbs: Not all words are created equal. Phrases like “assisted with,” “led,” “created,” and “organized” are overused and can make your resume seem repetitive.
What to say instead: Start your bullet points with bold action verbs that demonstrate your value at past jobs. They can paint a vivid picture of your role and what you have to offer. Instead of “created,” try “designed,” “authored,” “established,” “developed,” or “conceptualized.” Instead of “assisted with,” consider “collaborated.” Other strong action verbs might include: facilitated, converted, automated, and coded.
When it comes to hiring, employers want someone who will bring value and solve problems at their institution. By choosing your words wisely and providing concrete examples of your achievements — and leaving buzzwords behind — you can spark interest and make your case as a strong candidate.
