Power words: Keywords to use on your CV
If you struggle to find words or phrases to include in your CV or Resume; you have come to the right place! When writing your CV it is important to use powerful and positive language. The readers will also judge you on the way you express yourself, not merely on the content of what you have said…
Below are two lists of keywords that you can use to enhance your CV or Resume:
List of Positive Attributes
- Confident
- Flexible
- Adaptable
- Hard-working
- Reliable
- Dedicated
- Creative
- Dynamic
- Business/commercial minded
- Enthusiastic
- Resourceful
- Diplomatic
- Co-operative
- Consistent
- People-oriented
- Loyal
- Self-motivated
Action words
- Achieved
- Accomplished
- Completed
- Delegated
- Demonstrated
- Developed
- Directed
- Established
- Evaluated
- Facilitated
- Increased
- Launched
- Maintained
- Regulated
- Supervised
- Won
- Conducted
- Negotiated
- Liaised
One thing you might have noticed is that these words are all listed in the past tense, and this is no accident: the past tense is incredibly powerful because it actually gives the impression that you have really achieved and done something.
A word of warning: do not use the above-listed words as bullet points. They should be incorporated into properly structured sentences.
Example:
“I developed a new method for structuring curriculum programmes.”
To make it even more powerful, use it in combination with words such as:
- Effectively
- Efficiently
- Quickly
- Rapidly
- Resourcefully
Examples:
“I resourcefully launched a Marketing campaign with a budget of £5.000.”
“I effectively supervised a team of 12 individuals.”
Summary
The way you express yourself is as important as the information you try to convey. The correct use of positive action words (sometimes referred to as buzz words or power words) can dramatically enhance the impact of your CV or Resume.
