Warning: If You’re Using One of These Terms on Your Resume, Change It! The Most Overused Phrases and How to Say It Better

Reading Time: < 1 minute
jargon

A study of more than 1,300 senior managers at companies in the US and Canada with 20 or more employees, an independent research firm, found these terms among the “most overused or meaningless” phrases they’ve seen on resumes.

The solution? See the below chart for recommendations for replacing cliche and/or meaningless phrases.  

Phrases to Leave OutHow to Stand Out
Highly qualifiedDescribe for the hiring manager what you bring to the role. Highlight your accomplishments in previous positions, emphasize your specific skills and note any certifications you have earned.
Hard workerExplain exactly how you’ve gone the extra mile. For instance, did you regularly meet tough deadlines, handle a high volume of projects or tackle tasks outside your job description?
Team playerWorking well with others is a must for any role today. Provide examples of how you partnered with colleagues or individuals in other departments to meet an objective.
Problem solverPeople love others who can help them get out of a pickle, but be specific when you describe this quality. Highlight a difficult situation you encountered and how you handled it.
FlexibleHiring managers seek candidates who can adapt quickly to new situations. Describe how you responded to a major change at work or dealt with the unpredictable aspects of your job.
People personEmployers want professionals with strong communication skills who can build camaraderie with internal and external contacts. Provide an example of how you won over a challenging customer or coworker.   
Self-starterCompanies seek individuals with initiative who can contribute immediately. Show how you took action when you saw an issue that needed to be fixed.
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest

Recent Articles

personality assessment test

Personality Tests (FREE)

The Value of Taking a Personality Test: The Power of Self-Awareness Self-awareness is a fundamental aspect of personal and professional growth. A greater understanding of

Read More »