The Best Resume Action Words for This Year

How to Choose the Right Action Words for Your Resume

When you use resume action words, it is important that they are appropriate for the job description that you are applying for. Here are the steps you can take to identify the correct action verbs for your resume:

1. Consider the job description.

   Re-read the job description of the role that you want to apply for to identify the keywords and main requirements of the role. Once you have done this, identify which skills will be most needed to meet the needs of the role. For example, if the job description calls for teamwork, you will need great collaborative and leadership skills.

2. Write a list of your key skills and achievements.

   With the details of the job description in mind, make a list of your main skills and most notable achievements.

3. Create a list of action words that reinforce your skills and accomplishments.

   When you have your list of notable achievements and relevant skills, start formulating a list of actions that can support or prove your claims. For example, if you list creative skills or successful design projects, your actions and power words might include:

   • Created
   • Designed
   • Planned
   • Painted
   • Presented

4. Generate synonyms.

   Once you have a list of actions to support your skills and achievements, you should create a list of related action verbs and synonyms. Examples of action verbs and synonyms for creative skills like design projects include:

   • Pioneered
   • Shaped
   • Displayed
   • Composed
   • Enlivened

Once you have this list in front of you, it is a matter of putting it to use in your resume. For example, you might state that you “Pioneered a design technique that increased average project speed by 10%” or “Created and displayed a composition that increased visitor footfall to the exhibit by 15%”. Finally, consider using a resume builder such as the ResumeNerd resume builder, which offers expert suggestions on how to describe your skills and achievements, as well as a large range of free templates to choose from.