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Awesome words to use on your CV

By Monster Contributor

In today's highly competitive job market, a well-crafted CV can make all the difference in catching the attention of recruiters and securing the job you desire. However, it's crucial to balance making sense to human recruiters and optimising for search engines and recruitment software. 

Here's Monster's strategy to use awesome words effectively on your CV, avoid clichés, and highlight achievements and qualities that will make them stand out in the eyes of hiring managers.

DON'T use Clichés 

Recruiters sift through loads of CVs daily and quickly become weary of overused phrases like "good team player," "results-driven," and "excellent communication skills." So instead, use our advice below to provide specific examples and achievements showcasing your abilities and qualities.

DON'T 'Stuff' Keywords. 

While optimising your CV for the databases and software recruiters use is crucial, avoiding 'keyword stuffing' is essential. Keyword stuffing refers to overusing specific words or phrases to try and rank higher in search results. First, many Search Engines are smart enough to mark you down for this, then - it looks terrible to human recruiters too. Instead, try to include the language recruiters will naturally search for. 

DO Use Action Verbs. 

Use action verbs to describe your experiences and accomplishments to make your CV dynamic and engaging. These words add strength and clarity to your statements. They are used to highlight your role in a result; some effective action verbs include:

  • Spearheaded
  • Implemented
  • Optimised
  • Streamlined
  • Negotiated
  • Initiated

DO Use "What?: So What?" 

The action verbs will tell the recruiter what you did. Make sure to follow up with what it meant. An excellent way to think of this is, "What?: So What?" These "What: so what" statements will demonstrate your tangible achievements and your impact in your previous roles. Incorporate metrics and specific outcomes to provide evidence of your contributions. For example: 

  • Negotiated New Supplier Contract: saving £14k p.a. 
  • Streamlined Stock Taking: reduced 'out to stock' incidents by 17%
  • Initiated Graduate job page: Connected 2,300 Graduates with jobs

DO Tailor your CV to the Job Description. 

Finally, an effective way to capture a recruiter's attention is to align your CV with the specific requirements and language of the job you're applying for. Analyse the job description thoroughly and incorporate any relevant keywords, jargon and skills that match the role. Many recruiters are using what's in the job ad as a 'checklist'. so if you can make something in your CV match the language they are looking for, this will demonstrate your suitability and helps you pass the initial screening processes.

Satisfied with your current CV? Thinking of making a few alternatives? Take the time now upload or create a brand new CV on Monster and we will help you with your job search.