81 Phrases and Words to Avoid on Your Resume
Among the best phrases I’ve read in several Resumes – This one stands out
“I am an innovative problem solver with a proven track record of extensive business experience motivated by results-oriented approaches, which adds to my dynamic personality and demonstrates my ability to work as a team in a fast-paced work environment. That’s why I know I’m perfect for your company.
Did you find something weird?
Well, this wouldn’t be the first or the last you’d read if you’re in the industry I’m in.
Here are some more overused phrases on resumes.
The reason to avoid them is that they have lost their freshness due to too many people using them excessively, especially those who copy and paste from the Internet.
See if you’ve used any, and if you have, be sure to change it.
1. Ability to handle pressure
2. Able to work in a fast-paced environment
3. Exceeded all department productivity goals.
4. Exceptional and multitasking
5. Expert presenter, negotiator and entrepreneur
6. Have superlative adjectives
7. Including but not limited to – makes the phrase redundant!
8. Introduced new products.
9. Lead a team
10. Managed cross-functional teams
11. My ambition is to reach the top of the corporate ladder
12. Associate with others.
13. Possess 15 years of experience in…
14. Possess leadership and communication skills.
15. Possesses motivational and inspirational skills.
16. Praising Perfection
17. Proven track record of success.
18. Quick learning
19. Resolves customer difficulties quickly and tactfully.
20. Results-oriented person
21. Say resume on your resume
22. Talked to existing customers daily.
23. Stating the Obvious – Reference Available Upon Request
24. Declare what you were ‘responsible’ for
25. Strong communication
26. Strong customer service and organizational skills.
27. Take on your duties
28. Team Player
29. Thrives in XYZ environments
30. Make decisions on behalf of management
Also avoid these 51 words if possible as they are overused quite often.
1. ability to (something)
2. Analytical
3. Attention to detail
4. Best in class
5. Training
6. Creative
7. Dependent
8. Retailer
9. Writing
10. Driven
11. Homework
12. Dynamic
13. Cash (something)
14. energetic
15. Securing Maximum (something)
16. Enthusiastic
17. Great communicator
18.Expert
19. flexible
20. Formulation
21. Graduated with highest honors
22. Manipulation
23. worker
24. Highly Qualified
25. Innovative
26. Leadership
27. Tutoring
28. Motivated
29. Negotiation
30. Organizational
31. Ready to use
32. Patient
33. People Person
34. Preparing
35. Proactive
36. Troubleshooter
37. Processes
38. Proven track record
39. Relationship Management
40. Trustworthy
41. Responsibilities
42. Responsible
43. Results Oriented
44. Experienced professional
45. Entrepreneur
46. Strategic-Thinker
47. Strong interpersonal skills
48. Team Player
49. Time management
50. Tracking
51. Added value