The use of action words is essential to a modern resume. But before you dive in, keep these tips in mind. 

When writing a resume, professional resume writers stress the importance of using action words to properly convey the achievements and accolades of any applicant. However, these nuances are not strictly for cosmetics; action words can showcase other key characteristics many recruiters look for: advanced verbal and oral communication skills.

While one could simply write: “equipped with advanced verbal, oral and written communication skills” on their resume, the use of action words actually fortifies this claim and provides evidence that the owner of the resume does, in fact, possess this capability and talent.

However, here are some important considerations to keep in mind when using resume power words:

Never overdo it.

Using too many resume action words can sometimes make the content coarse and difficult to read. Using one action word per sentence is ideal to deliver the achievement while selling it in the most efficient and proven manner possible.

Try to start each bullet point with an action word.

The best method to integrate resume action words into any resume is to begin any bullet point with an action word. In essence, this strategy acts like a “reverse exclamation point” and calls attention to the achievement or accomplishment from the get-go, grabbing the reviewer's attention to read the entire sentence. The truest way to effectively convey the meaning of a bullet point is to augment it with an anchoring word. This is a proven way to keep the reader in suspense.

Avoid using the same action word twice.

Most resume writers will agree that the number one cause of a resume falling short is  redundancies. The same holds true with action words; never use the same action verb twice in any given resume. The whole point of using action words is to uniquely display functions, duties, and accomplishments. There are so many action words to choose from; never be afraid to explore and try new words.

Resume action words are not just a trendy commodity; they are fundamental in showcasing any applicant's true advanced vernacular and talent to utilize superior written and oral communication skills. In the modern market, these talents are essential and always in demand. Integrating and using resume action words in the right consideration, appropriate capacity, and optimal concentration can effectively showcase these capabilities and truly enhance composition and content of any resume.

Looking for new action words to include in your resume? Check The Muse's list of 185 powerful verbs that will make your resume stand out from the pack.  

Initially posted on Telegraph

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