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Are You Using Enough Descriptive Action Words in Your Resume? Here are 100 You Can Immediately Use!

Founder / CEO / MBA
Read time: 3 minutes

Do you all know the expression, “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”?  Did you know that 90% of all resumes get disregarded in 15 seconds.  That’s Right – 15 Seconds. Your resume must be able to speak for you when you can’t speak about it.  That means that not only does it have to tell a story, it has to show a diverse and numerous set of accomplishments and achievements.  How do you do this? By using numerous and a wide variety of descriptive action words throughout your resume.

Including these descriptive action words in your resume can significantly enhance its impact and effectiveness. Action words, such as "achieved," "designed," "implemented," and "led," convey a sense of proactivity and accomplishment. They help to paint a vivid picture of your contributions and the results you have delivered in your previous roles. By using these words, you can transform a mundane list of job duties into a dynamic narrative that showcases your skills and achievements.

Descriptive action words also help to make your resume more engaging and easier to read. Recruiters and hiring managers often have to sift through numerous resumes, and a resume that stands out with strong, action-oriented language is more likely to capture their attention. These words add energy and clarity to your descriptions, making it easier for the reader to quickly grasp the value you bring to the table. This can be particularly important in competitive job markets where first impressions are crucial.

Moreover, action words can help to highlight your specific contributions and differentiate you from other candidates. Instead of simply stating that you were part of a team, you can use action words to emphasize your individual role and the impact you had. For example, saying "spearheaded a project that increased sales by 20%" is much more compelling than "worked on a project." This level of detail not only demonstrates your capabilities but also provides concrete evidence of your accomplishments.

Finally, using descriptive action words can enhance the overall professionalism and polish of your resume. It shows that you have taken the time to thoughtfully craft your document and that you understand the importance of effective communication. This attention to detail can reflect positively on you as a candidate, suggesting that you are meticulous and take pride in your work. In summary, incorporating action words into your resume can make a significant difference in how your qualifications are perceived, ultimately increasing your chances of landing an interview.

Below are a Full List of 100 Action Words You Can Immediately Use in Your Resume


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