USnews.com | Karen Burns | Nov 17, 2010
You’ve written your resume. You poured a lot of effort into the page that will represent you, and you can’t wait to distribute it far and wide.
Not so fast. Before you send that puppy out, check it for buzzwords. Like “team player.” Or “detail-oriented.” Or “accustomed to fast-paced environments.”
Here’s why you should avoid them: They’re vague. They make your resume look like everyone else’s. They’re probably not among the keywords employers search for. They take up space on your resume that could be used for strong, concrete, specific examples of what you’ve accomplished, the work you’ve produced, and how hiring you would benefit your potential employer. Buzzwords are tired and overused, clichés that have lost their meaning over time.
Most importantly, every buzzword is a lost opportunity.
You want your resume to stand out. The best way to sell yourself is to show, don’t tell. Explain your accomplishments rather than spouting them off in trite ways.
So check your resume for these boilerplate words and phrases. If you find them, replace them—or at the very least, elaborate upon them—with real-life, specific examples.
1. Team player
2. Detailed-oriented
3. Proven track record of success
4. Experienced
5. Excellent communication skills
6. Leadership skills