Was thinking of the funny , often overused, and negative words I see in resumes. Some are overused if they are used even once, but let’s quickly go over them to save yourself a headache or two.
Liaison:
Unless your job title is Liaison, how often do you use the word in real live? Now, I let this one slide, as long as it isn’t overused. Remember to ask yourself if you use it in real life conversations. The word “communicated” can generally be used and you’ll seem a lot less like a “stuffed shirt.”
Expedite:
Now I know that depending on the position, it can be used more frequently, but it’s certainly not used nearly as much in conversation as it is in resumes. “I expedited taking the kids to school, so they wouldn’t be late.” How often does that phrase come up in conversation?
Interface:
This is easily one of the funniest words I ever see on a resume. It is not used in conversation by ANYONE that isn’t still living in a basement and clearly never going to look for work. We “communicate” with one another, not interface that is unless you are Mr. Roboto or some robotic bad guy on Dr. Who.
Fire/Terminate:
A resume is supposed to leave a positive impression and these are a couple of the most negative words ever used in resumes. When you’re a manager or person of authority, we all know that sadly this is part of your job. It’s kind of a common sense thing, so let’s not announce it in your resume. If you’re highlighting this “skill” you are not showing yourself in a very positive light.
I’m not saying that using these words are necessarily wrong (except for interface and you had better not let me catch you using that one), but just think before using them. Use words that you would actually use in a conversation and try not to overuse any words. Just a little piece of advice that will help you paint yourself in a more positive light.
“Proofread carefully to see if you any words out.” ~Author Unknown
