Resume Action Verbs and Phrases

• Avoid using the same word more than twice. Use a thesaurus or the below list to help you find substitute words.
• Slip in some powerful qualifying words such as “successfully” or “effectively”.
• Use past tense action verbs for past jobs, and use present tense when describing the position you currently hold.
• Avoid using “I” when developing action statements. The reader already knows the resume is about you!
• Use numbers whenever possible! Numbers attract the attention of the reader and quantify accomplishments. For example, “Trained four new employees”, or “Raised $4,000 in charity donations”.
• Keep each phrase short and too the point. You can always elaborate upon a point during the interview.
• Use phrases such as “assisted the director” or “helped the manager” sparingly. Try to incorporate experiences you have gained on your own as well.
• Keep in mind the message you are trying to send to the employer. If you want to sell yourself as a good communicator, use words and phrases that indicate interaction with others. If you want to sell your leadership skills, use words like “directed” or “trained”