What kind of language should I use in my CV?

Article created: October 26, 2022

Article last updated: October 26, 2022

Using the correct language is a powerful tool for conveying the value of what you’ve accomplished. Avoid repetition and cliches; instead, opt for succinct, clear, and concise language.

We understand that it can be hard to avoid repetition in a CV, so here are some synonyms to help you convey your experiences and achievements in the best possible way!

Verbs

Achieved: attained, fulfilled, secured, submitted, completed, delivered, earned, executed, obtained, produced, gained

Analyzed: assessed, calculated, contemplated, examined, inspected, measured, researched, reviewed, scrutinized, surveyed, tracked, verified, studied, audited, considered, critiqued, monitored, identified

Changed: adapted, amended, developed, edited, improved, restructured, revised, updated, adjusted, diversified, modified, remodeled, revamped, transformed, tweaked, upgraded

Communicated: circulated, distributed, influenced, instructed, promoted, persuaded, translated, advised, campaigned, illustrated liaised, summarized, transmitted

Created: authored, compiled, developed, drafted, generated, initiated, installed, invented, setup, composed, conceptualized, designed, formulated, founded, introduced, investigated, launched, programmed, shaped

Helped: coached, advised, accommodated, encouraged, alleviated, moderated, supported, consulted, assisted

Improved: accelerated, advanced, broadened, enhanced, invigorated, revitalized, strengthened, transformed, updated, boosted, optimized, revamped, surpassed

Led: chaired, coordinated, directed, mediated, represented, supervised, delegated, pioneered, shaped, motivated, guided

Managed: administered, controlled, engaged, handled, mediated, organized, shaped, supervised, oversaw, facilitated, operated, mentored

Organized: assembled, defined, processed, prepared, scheduled, allocated, arranged, assigned, budgeted, captured, combined, conducted, planned, regulated, systemized, sorted

Showed Initiative: instigated, launched, proposed, innovated, founded, requested, solicited, engaged, implemented

Taught: coached, facilitated, lectured, consulted, familiarized, related, trained

Personal descriptors

Creative: visionary, innovative, original, artistic, inventive, curious

Critical thinker: analytical, inquisitive, logical, systematic, methodical, investigative

Flexible: adaptable, resilient, responsive, agile, versatile

Good attention to detail: detail-orientated, fastidious, meticulous, scrupulous, conscientious, thorough, rigorous

Good with people: approachable, diplomatic, empathetic, sociable, co-operative, personable, team-minded

Motivated: committed, driven, hardworking, resolute, tenacious, passionate, enthusiastic

Reliable: consistent, dependable, honest, credible, level-headed, responsible

Strong work ethic: diligent, productive, industrious, dedicated, enterprising, proactive, conscientious

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