If you have been to a resume workshop, one of the buzzwords you’ve heard is power words. Power words are active words that grab the readers’ attention and emphasize your role in the actions presented on the page.
Reading resumes can get boring fast. If everyone simply writes, “Responsibilities included…” the prospective employers would fall asleep at their desks. Thankfully, your resume will make the reader sit up and pay attention because you will use active power words.
Some Sample Power Word
Accounted for
Achieved
Ameliorated
Approached
Applied
Assessed
Balanced
Built
Chaired
Collected
Connected
Contributed
Co-ordinated
Convinced
Created
Decreased
Derived
Designed
Developed
Directed
Established
Evaluated
Excelled at
Executed
Formed
Fostered
Founded
Honed
Improved
Increased
Inspired
Introduced
Joined
Managed
Maintained
Motivated
Negotiated
Obtained
Organized
Participated
Planned
Perfected
Persuaded
Produced
Pursued
Restructured
Revamped
Revitalized
Reviewed
Supervised
Tested
Transformed
Translated
Trained
Remember, there are many more words than just the handful listed here. Also, remember not to overuse these words. Use each word only once per paragraph or subject heading in your resume, and try to vary the words that you use throughout your resume. If you notice, these words all imply action – the power words and achievements list should describe what you DID and how this added VALUE to the organization. Anyone can be responsible for key accounts, but how many can claim “Achieved 150% of the sales quota” or “Restructured the inside sales department to increase customer satisfaction levels by 55%”? Sell yourself using these action words.