help synonym in resume

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Stop Saying You 'Helped' on Your Resume (and Use These Verbs Instead)

If you’re in the job market ( or you might be soon ) it’s worth taking a fine-tooth comb to the verb choices on your resume. And while humility is a valuable soft skill that conveys emotional intelligence in the workplace, it has no place on a document highlighting your career accomplishments. Your resume is your one brief shot to stand out among hundreds of other candidates, and it needs to be filled with powerful action verbs that convey agency and impact—not those that put you in a “helping” position.

Why you shouldn’t say you “helped”

Recruiters and hiring managers may receive hundreds of applications for the same position. According to a 2018 “Eye Tracking” study conducted by Ladders, Inc ., “The average initial screening time for a candidate’s resume clocks in at just 7.4 seconds.” With such little time to make an impression, it’s imperative your work achievements leap off the page. Using weak or passive verbs (think: assisted , utilized, contributed, held) can “ undermine the strength and effectiveness of your resume ” and cause an HR manager to toss your resume quicker than you can say you “participated in best-of-breed initiatives.”

Why you should use powerful action verbs instead

In an Instagram post , Brooklyn-based tech recruiter Alicia Whitney implored job seekers to “stop downplaying” the important things they’ve done in their careers and gave examples of “verbs to use on your resume instead of ‘helped’ or ‘assisted’ because you did way fucking more than that...We often naturally undercut ourselves and downplay our accomplishments, but your resume is the time to brag.”

Among her top picks were: Executed, overhauled, identified, produced, instituted, incorporated, achieved, delivered, partnered, spearheaded, analyzed, incorporated, completed, advocated , and resolved . She emphasized that this was only a short list, but a quick Google search on “ verbs for resume ” would yield thousands of results. (It did, and our favorites include: Developed, launched, boosted, leveraged, chaired, enacted, established, outperformed, supervised, and pioneered —among countless others.)

Indeed echoed the sentiment, saying not only do action verbs help the application shine, “They can also help job applicants get past software scanners that filter for the top candidates.” Consider this example :

Lacks strength and clarity:   “Held weekly status meetings to share client updates.”

Empowered and detailed:   “Spearheaded weekly status meetings to communicate agency revenue growth.”

The switch to a power verb and more detailed description (with facts, data, numbers, and symbols like ‘$’ ) make the contribution sound stronger and more impactful. Because why say that you “handled daily activities and long-term projects” when you could say that you “leveraged key data points to boost monthly sales by $10,000”?

A note on verb tense

It’s also important to maintain a consistent verb tense throughout. Past tense is acceptable for all verbs, though you can describe your experience in a current job using present tense. Be sure not to mix and match verb tenses within a single set of bullet points—all verb tenses should agree for any given role.

Powerful Resume Synonyms for Help: Elevate Your Resume

Home » Resume Synonyms » Powerful Resume Synonyms for Help: Elevate Your Resume

In the competitive world of job hunting, having an impressive resume is crucial. Your resume is the key to catching the attention of potential employers and securing job opportunities. One common pitfall in resumes is the repetitive use of certain words, particularly the word ‘help’. While it may seem harmless, overusing this word can dilute the impact of your accomplishments and make your resume less memorable. In this article, we will explore powerful synonyms for ‘help’ that will elevate your resume and make it stand out from the crowd.

Elevate your resume with powerful synonyms for ‘help’. Discover impactful alternatives that convey your skills and achievements more effectively. Stand out and make a memorable impression on potential employers.

The Power of Synonyms

Comprehensive list of synonyms for ‘help’, practical application: utilizing strong verbs in your resume, using synonyms in different contexts, frequently asked questions.

Words have the power to create vivid images in the minds of others. When it comes to your resume, you want to paint a picture of yourself as a competent, dynamic, and valuable candidate. Using the same tired words as everyone else will only make your resume blend into the background. This is where synonyms come into play. Synonyms are words that have similar meanings to other words. By replacing the overused word ‘help’ with more specific and impactful synonyms, you can make your resume more engaging and memorable.

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To transform your resume from ordinary to extraordinary, here is a comprehensive list of powerful synonyms for ‘help’ that you can utilize strategically:

This comprehensive list of synonyms for ‘help’ provides a range of options to choose from, each with its own connotation and example usage. Select the synonym that best fits the context of your resume and accurately conveys the nature of your contributions.

Remember, the key to choosing the right synonym is understanding the connotation and nuances associated with each word. Selecting a synonym that accurately reflects your role and impact will enhance the effectiveness of your resume.

Now that you have a list of powerful synonyms for ‘help’, it’s time to put them to use in your resume. Here are a few examples to demonstrate how you can replace ‘help’ with stronger verbs:

• Original sentence: “Helped manage a team of professionals.” Revised sentence: “Guided and empowered a team of professionals to achieve departmental goals.”
• Original sentence: “Helped improve customer satisfaction ratings.” Revised sentence: “Enhanced customer satisfaction ratings through proactive support and personalized assistance.”
• Original sentence: “Helped develop and implement new marketing strategies.” Revised sentence: “Contributed to the development and successful implementation of innovative marketing strategies.”

By incorporating these stronger verbs, you not only demonstrate your active involvement but also highlight the impact of your actions on the overall success of the projects or teams you were a part of.

When applying for different positions, it’s essential to tailor your resume to reflect the specific skills and qualifications required. Different job roles demand different verbs to effectively describe your contributions. For instance:

• In a leadership position: ‘Empowered’, ‘guided’, or ‘mentored’ can effectively convey your ability to lead and develop a team.
• In a customer service role: ‘Assisted’, ‘supported’, or ‘nurtured’ can showcase your dedication to providing excellent customer experiences.
• In a creative role: ‘Collaborated’, ‘enhanced’, or ‘contributed’ can emphasize your ability to bring innovative ideas to the table.

By choosing verbs that align with the desired skills and qualities of the target job, you can demonstrate your suitability for the role effectively.

Now let’s address some common questions about using synonyms for ‘help’ in your resume:

Instead of using the word ‘help’, you can opt for more impactful and specific verbs such as ‘assisted’, ‘guided’, ‘supported’, or ‘contributed’. These verbs provide a clearer picture of your actions and highlight your valuable contributions.

To make the most of synonyms, choose the most suitable verb that accurately describes your role and achievements. Additionally, ensure that your verbs align with the specific skills and qualities required for the targeted job.

While there are many synonyms for ‘help’, not all of them will be suitable for every context. Choose a synonym that accurately reflects your role and responsibilities. Be sure to maintain clarity and honesty in your resume.

Using varied and specific verbs can help your resume stand out from the competition. It showcases your abilities and achievements in a more engaging and memorable way, increasing your chances of getting noticed by employers.

Yes, you can use the word ‘assist’ in a resume. However, using more specific and impactful synonyms can help make your resume stand out and showcase your skills and accomplishments in a more engaging way.

There are several synonyms you can use for ‘assist’ on your CV, such as ‘help’, ‘support’, ‘aid’, ‘facilitate’, ‘guide’, ‘collaborate’, or ‘contribute’. Choosing the right synonym depends on the context and nature of your role and responsibilities.

Instead of using ‘assisted’, you can opt for stronger and more specific verbs, such as ‘supported’, ‘facilitated’, ‘guided’, ‘collaborated’, ‘contributed’, or ‘aided’. These words add depth and clarity to your resume, showcasing your active involvement and impact in your previous roles.

Your resume is the gateway to new job opportunities, and using powerful synonyms instead of overused words like ‘help’ can elevate your resume’s impact. By selecting the right synonym that accurately reflects your role and contributions, you create a vivid and memorable image of your skills and achievements in the minds of recruiters. So, take the time to choose your words carefully and let your resume shine brightly among the rest.

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Published by Sarah Samson

Sarah Samson is a professional career advisor and resume expert. She specializes in helping recent college graduates and mid-career professionals improve their resumes and format them for the modern job market. In addition, she has also been a contributor to several online publications.

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13 Helped Synonyms for Resume

Try out these Helped synonyms for your resume instead. Make your resume concise, sharp and more impactful with these Helped synonyms.

In this article, we will show you:

• Synonyms for Helped that you should use or avoid.
• Example of how to use these Helped synonyms on your resume.

Top 13 Helped Synonyms for Your Resume in 2022

• Accompanied
• Taken Care Of

Other Helped Synonyms for Resume that are not a Great Fit (Use With Caution)

Where to highlight helped synonyms on your resume.

Generally, you can add Helped to the following sections of your resume:

• “Helped” synonym on your resume’s header
• “Helped” synonym on your resume’s summary or objective
• “Helped” synonym on your resume’s work history section.

Using Synonyms Instead of Helped on Resume - Examples

Maintained instead of helped on resume - example.

• “Maintained safe premises by implementing safety systems and inspecting SOPs from time to time.”
• “Maintain current level of production through streamlined production processes and cost optimization.”
• “Establish and maintain patient relationships by providing support and overseeing day-to-day operations.”

Backed Instead of Helped on Resume - Example

• “Developed an identity management system backed by a custom in-house built security module.”
• “Leverage market research and backed by competitive intelligence to craft market differentiating features.”
• “Backed several successful ideas at ACME, helping teams innovate by providing executive support.”
• “Backed up Account Manager in his absence and solved time sensitive client requests.”
• “Gained significant backing from CXOs for innovative initiatives.”

Bolstered Instead of Helped on Resume - Example

• “Bolstered 54% increase in customer satisfaction scores in two quarters .”
• “Bolstered office systems through usable design, technology maintenance, and live video feeds.”
• “Drives continuous improvement processes across all supply chain teams to bolster processing volume, overall productivity and team satisfaction.”
• “Consistently promoted high quality customer service to bolster the ACME’s image.”

Sustained Instead of Helped on Resume - Example

“Identifies and implements strategic measures to strengthen performance with sustained operational results.”

Encouraged Instead of Helped on Resume - Example

• “Encouraged innovative ideas from our team of 15 strategists to increase growth.”
• “Recognize hidden talent and encourage delegation.”
• “Promote cross-functional collaborations among sales, product and customer service and encourage team engagement.”
• “Creating a career path for team members where data driven and collaborative approach encourages team members to innovate and be recognized for it.”
• “Encouraged students to learn by doing through laboratory exercises.”
• “Built a safe and healthy environment to encourage diversity among teams.”
• “Encouraged tourism and sales in Virginia Westwood Park.”
• “Encouraging development of other team members and mentor them to reach their full potential.”
• “Encouraged visual learning in class through the introduction of apps and softwares to help students visualize complex concepts with ease.”

Advised Instead of Helped on Resume - Example

• “Advised Fortune 500 companies on security best practices and enforcing them for a workforce of more than 10,000 people.”
• “Advise on mortgage procedures to first time homeowners.”
• “Teach Philosophy and advise students on thesis selection.”
• “Advised severa Fortune 500 companies on FSMA compliance from strategy through implementation.”
• “Managed a portfolio of over $200M and advised investors on their portfolio.”
• “I advised startups on accounting and financial management in the Dallas area.”
• “Advised a team of 10+ board members on their asset allocation and depreciation.”

Accompanied Instead of Helped on Resume - Example

• “Accompanied and hosted a senior member of Congress on his tour to New Jersey.”
• “Extensive experience of CMBS loans, accompanied by in-depth knowledge of creating mortgage structures for institutional investors.”

Taken Care Of Instead of Helped on Resume - Example

• “Take care of fleet operators of ACME."
• “Make sure the client's needs are taken care of.”
• “Ensure that guests feel taken care of during their stay at Fairmont.”

Supported Instead of Helped on Resume - Example

• “Played an important role by support
• “Supported sales teams by acting as an SME for the PVC manufacturing industry.”

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70 Memorable Resume Synonyms to Use in Your Next Application

If you've ever researched resumes online, you've probably noticed that before long, they all start to sound the same. Words like "collaborated," "hard worker," and "implemented" start to blur together until it's hard to tell one resume from another. And if repeatedly seeing the same word is this frustrating for you, imagine how much worse it is for hiring managers and recruiters who often review dozens of resumes at a time.

An easy solution is resume synonyms. 

Resume synonyms replace overused buzzwords to describe you and your achievements more effectively. By considering which power words and action verbs to use or replace, you can distinguish your resume as unique, helping you stand out in a pool of applicants.

Ready to get creative? Use these 70 resume synonyms (plus some extra helpful tips) to create a powerful resume that will land you job interviews left and right.

Key Takeaways:

• Resume synonyms replace overused words and help your resume (and you!) stand out as different and unique.
• You can use synonyms for skills, achievements, job titles, and more.
• Remember to customize your synonyms for each individual job application you submit.

Additionally, we have some more excellent resources on this topic including:

• Our new library of 500+ resume synonyms , with in-depth breakdowns of how to use a word, when to replace it, and what to replace it with
• Resume Buzzwords and Cliches To Avoid and What to Use Instead
• Crush That Application: The Best Action Verbs for Your Resume

But for now, let’s dive into resume synonyms. 

Why use synonyms in resumes?

A synonym is a word or phrase that has a similar meaning to another word or phrase in the same language and can be used in place of another word to convey a similar idea or concept. For example, "happy" and "content" are synonyms because they have similar meanings. You could use either word to describe a person who is experiencing positive emotions.

Resume synonyms are beneficial because they help your resume stand out to recruiters, hiring managers, or the human resources department. Hiring managers review a lot of resumes, and most of these resumes likely use the exact same words over and over--words like "accomplishments," "experience," or "collaborate," to name a few.

By avoiding overused, boring phrases and using action words instead, you can help your resume and cover letter grab the eye, painting a vivid picture of the kind of team player you are. No repetitive or dull resume here--you're a unique, creative candidate whose past and present tense accomplishments stand out.

Another benefit of adding resume power words and synonyms is to help with keyword optimization. Pulling out specific words and phrases from the job description and strategically adding them to your resume can help position you as the best person for the job. You want your skills and ability to match up with what an employer is looking for, and synonyms are a great way to get your point across.

Using synonyms to describe your skills can make them sound more impressive and unique, too. For example, you aren't simply a "good communicator"--you're an "effective communicator" or a "skilled communicator." Doesn't that sound a bit more impactful?

Bottom line: Using synonyms can make your resume more interesting to read and increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters. The key is using them appropriately and ensuring they accurately reflect your skills and experience.

Common resume terms and their synonyms

Think of synonyms as resume power words--words that make an impact, creatively describing who you are and what you have to offer. When you tailor your resume to a job description , you have the option to use synonyms to portray your analytical skills, practical expertise, education, training, and any other attributes you may highlight.

First, try writing your resume as you normally would. Then go back through to compare your resume with a job description, keeping an eye out for which words you could replace for stronger, more impactful options.

Use the following synonyms to replace overused or boring words with resume power words that will help your education, accomplishments examples , and work experience stand out in the best way possible.

Synonyms for "experience"

• I have extensive experience in project management.
• I have broad expertise in project management.
• I have a deep background in project management.
• I have a strong proficiency in project management.

Find better resume synonyms for experienced

Synonyms for "tools"

• Proficient in using various tools for data analysis and visualization.
• Proficient in using various instruments for data analysis and visualization.
• Proficient in using various applications for data analysis and visualization.
• Proficient in using various equipment for data analysis and visualization.
• Proficient in using various devices for data analysis and visualization.

Synonyms for "responsible"

• Responsible for managing a team of sales representatives and exceeding monthly sales targets.
• Accountable for managing a team of sales representatives and exceeding monthly sales targets.
• In charge of managing a team of sales representatives and exceeding monthly sales targets.
• Tasked with managing a team of sales representatives and exceeding monthly sales targets.
• Answerable for managing a team of sales representatives and exceeding monthly sales targets.

More resume synonyms for responsible

Synonyms for "collaborate"

• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop new marketing strategies.
• Connected with cross-functional teams to develop new marketing strategies.
• Coordinated with cross-functional teams to develop new marketing strategies.
• Partnered with cross-functional teams to develop new marketing strategies.
• Teamed up with cross-functional teams to develop new marketing strategies.

Find more resume synonyms for collaborate

Synonyms for "developed"

• Developed a new software application to streamline inventory management.
• Created a new software application to streamline inventory management.
• Designed a new software application to streamline inventory management.
• Formulated a new software application to streamline inventory management.
• Constructed a new software application to streamline inventory management.

These are the 6 best resume synonyms for developed

Synonyms for "led"

• Led a team of five software engineers to develop a new software application.
• Directed a team of five software engineers to develop a new software application.
• Guided a team of five software engineers to develop a new software application.
• Supervised a team of five software engineers to develop a new software application.

More resume synonyms for led

Synonyms for "hardworking"

• I am a hardworking individual who consistently strives for excellence in my work.
• I am a diligent individual who consistently strives for excellence in my work.
• I am a dedicated individual who consistently strives for excellence in my work.
• I am a committed individual who consistently strives for excellence in my work.
• I am a conscientious individual who consistently strives for excellence in my work.

Synonyms for "managed"

• Managed a team of 10 employees and ensured all project deliverables were completed on time and within budget.
• Oversaw a team of 10 employees and ensured all project deliverables were completed on time and within budget.
• Directed a team of 10 employees and ensured all project deliverables were completed on time and within budget.
• Supervised a team of 10 employees and ensured all project deliverables were completed on time and within budget.

Here are 6 great resume synonyms for managed , one of the most overused phrases

Synonyms for "improved"

• Implemented new strategies to improve customer satisfaction and retention rates.
• Implemented new strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and retention rates.
• Implemented new strategies to boost customer satisfaction and retention rates.
• Implemented new strategies to upgrade customer satisfaction and retention rates.
• Implemented new strategies to refine customer satisfaction and retention rates.

More resume synonyms for improved

Synonyms for "implemented"

• Successfully implemented new processes to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
• Successfully executed new processes to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
• Successfully applied new processes to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
• Successfully introduced new processes to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
• Successfully enacted new processes to streamline operations and increase efficiency.

More resume synonyms for implemented

Synonym for "creative"

• I am a creative individual who enjoys thinking outside the box.
• I am an imaginative individual who enjoys thinking outside the box.
• I am an innovative individual who enjoys thinking outside the box.
• I am a resourceful individual who enjoys thinking outside the box.
• I am a visionary individual who enjoys thinking outside the box.

Synonyms for "industry"

• I have over 10 years of experience in the finance industry.
• I have over 10 years of experience in the finance sector.
• I have over 10 years of experience in the finance field.
• I have over 10 years of experience in the finance domain.
• I have over 10 years of experience in the finance sphere.

Synonym for "duties"

• Responsible for managing the day-to-day duties of the administrative staff.
• Responsible for managing the day-to-day responsibilities of the administrative staff.
• Responsible for managing the day-to-day tasks of the administrative staff.
• Responsible for managing the day-to-day functions of the administrative staff.
• Responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the administrative staff.

Synonym for "demonstrate"

• Demonstrated the ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Displayed the ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Illustrated the ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Exhibited the ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Here are the best 6 resume synonyms for demonstrate

Synonym for "achieve"

• Achieved a 20% increase in sales within the first quarter.
• Attained a 20% increase in sales within the first quarter.
• Accomplished a 20% increase in sales within the first quarter.
• Fulfilled a 20% increase in sales within the first quarter.

Find the best resume synonyms for achieved

Using synonyms for job titles

Skills and achievements aren't the only places in your resume where you can use synonyms. Companies also tend to use different job titles for similar roles. You may have already noticed this as you research positions to apply. For instance, you might see job titles like:

• Marketing Lead, Director of Marketing, Head of Marketing
• Bookkeeper, Accounting Assistant, Accounting Clerk, Accounting Associate
• Customer Service Manager, Customer Success Supervisor, Relationship Manager, Client Support

How should you decide which title to use in your resume? When in doubt, reference the job posting and use the same language as the employer (as long as this title fits with your experience and your prior jobs). If you feel the need to, you can put an alternate job title in parentheses--such as "Customer Success Supervisor (Relationship Manager)".

Tips for using synonyms effectively

Ready to grab your thesaurus , identify areas for improvement, and tackle those resume power verbs? Use synonyms more effectively and appropriately with these tips:

• Avoid overuse. Yes, you can have too much of a good thing. Synonyms are great. But sometimes, the actual word itself is better. Know when to use a synonym and when it's better to steer clear or common resume power verbs and keep things simple.
• Don't overcomplicate it. Your resume writing should sound professional and clear. And while you do get points for creativity, there's no need to dig up the most obscure words you can find in the thesaurus. If you're struggling to decide on a synonym, read your resume out loud and see where your tongue gets tripped up. "Extensive experience" doesn't necessarily need to become "substantial knowledge" or "significant familiarity." "Broad expertise" is enough.
• Highlight transferable skills. Transferable skills can be applied to a variety of jobs and industries. They often use different terminology. Using synonyms can help you showcase your transferable skills in a way that's easily understandable to all employers and industries.
• Enhance your achievements. Incorporating synonyms for achievements on your resume can help you highlight your accomplishments in a way that's impactful and attention-grabbing to potential employers. Find solid synonyms by thinking about the specific actions you took, the results you achieved, and the impact you had.
• Customize synonyms for each job. Remember to customize your resume synonyms for each individual job application you submit. Every company is looking for something slightly different and will use different messaging to describe what they want. You'll have a better chance of standing out to the hiring manager if your language aligns with theirs.

Customize resume synonyms for each job with Teal

Resume synonyms can also double as resume keywords which can be extremely powerful in your job search. 

In fact, finding standout keywords in a job description and matching them to your own resume can thoroughly increase your chances of landing an interview. 

And Teal can help you do just that quickly and easily.

With Teal’s Job Application Tracker, you can evaluate jobs directly inside your Teal dashboard by using the Chrome extension to bookmark and save jobs. The tracker will extract the top five keywords that you need to add to your resume to stand out for that role.

Teal’s AI Resume Builder can take that a step further by comparing the skills in that job description to the skills in your resume to give you a match score.

Want to see this in action? Enter the text from your resume below to uncover new improvements.

It's an easy way to generate a quality resume that sounds unique and is personalized for each and every job application you submit. Create a free account to get started today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective synonyms for 'bookkeeper' to use on a resume, how can using synonyms on my resume improve my job search, is it better to use simple or complex synonyms on a resume.

Hailey Hudson

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9 Good Synonyms for “Support” on a Resume

Everyone appreciates a bit of support in the workplace. The more support you can offer your peers, the more valuable you become as an employee.

Read on to find out what to say instead of “support” on your resume. We’ve also provided some examples for each heading.

Also, it works when helping colleagues, clients, or customers . There is more than one way to help those around you in the workplace. “Assist” is a great way to talk about this.

You can also review the following resume samples:

Saying that you give “aid” shows you help around the workplace . Helpful employees tend to make the best employees.

Therefore, it’s worth showing how helpful you are to demonstrate what you’re willing to put into a new company.

The same rule applies here.

Just use “help.” It’s simple yet effective . It’s a formal alternative to “support” that will help to keep your job application more streamlined and easier to read.

After all, everyone knows what “help” means. It’s a simplistic choice, but it’s professional and to the point .

These ideas are great to include in a job application. It will impress an employer and let them know you mean business when applying for a job.

You can also refer to these examples if you’re unsure:

5. Encourage

Generally, “encourage” is a great way to show how well you work with a team. After all, if you’re an encouraging teammate, it’s likely that people rely on you to help them when they need you.

“Serve” is another word for “support” that works well in formal cases. However, you should be careful with it.

Naturally, “serve” is a more submissive word than other synonyms. It still works well, but it works best to show respect and formality toward clients or employers.

7. Accommodate

Therefore, we recommend using “accommodate” as a formal alternative to “support.”

So, you can use “advise” as a formal alternative to “support.” It’s a great way to show your willingness to assist your peers.

“Succor” is another word for “support” on a resume. Don’t worry; it’s not as complicated as it looks.

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

Resume synonyms for support.

Want another word for Support to use on your resume? Our team's compiled the most effective action verbs and synonyms you can use instead of the overused resume phrase, " Support ".

A great indicator that you are a team player is when you provide 'Support.' This is important because team members need to be able to rely on each other, and they must be able to trust their colleagues' abilities. Showing that you understand the importance of supporting others is valuable for many companies. The word support indicates that you have experience pitching in when needed. Still, it is unclear how this experience translates into the skills required for the position you're applying for. This makes it difficult for recruiters to understand your role in a given situation and how it impacted whatever outcome they're looking at. To address this issue, you can use other words for support in the past tense (if a job listed on your resume is not an ongoing role), emphasizing what you achieved or how successful you were. For example: 'Championed', 'Boosted' or 'Reinforced'. These power verbs will give recruiters an idea of what kind of work you did on each project and how it impacted the final result, so they can see how you'll be able to contribute to their organization. I've compiled some synonyms you can use instead of Support on your resume, followed by real examples I've written for clients (feel free to use them!).

Resume Synonyms for Support :

• Spearheaded
• Facilitated
• Streamlined
• Revitalized
• Transformed
• Orchestrated
• Strengthened
• Outperformed
• Accommodated
• Recommended

How to replace Support with a stronger action verb:

Let's look at examples of how you can remove and replace the overused phrase, Support, with a stronger synonym and alternative that is more effective at highlighting your achievements.

• Supported testing teams by creating frameworks and reducing testing timelines

After: Using a stronger synonym • Implemented automation and reporting frameworks for product testing, leading to adoption by testing teams and reducing internal testing timelines by 30%.

Replacing Support with Spearheaded ▾

• Supported the development of the company's strategic plan

After: Spearheaded • Spearheaded the creation of the company's strategic plan, leading to a 35% growth in market share within a year

To improve this bullet point, I decided to use a stronger action verb, 'Spearheaded', which indicates a leadership role. I also included specific metrics to quantify the candidate's accomplishment and its impact on the business.

Tip: I've prepared a ton of additional examples for you to give you inspiration. Please click on any of the following to expand and see real examples of how I've rewritten client bullet points.

Replacing Support with Initiated ▾

• Supported marketing campaigns by providing insights

After: Initiated • Initiated analytics-driven strategy which maximized marketing campaign effectiveness, leading to a 15% increase in conversion rates

I replaced the vague term 'supported' with 'Initiated', denoting a proactive approach. Quantifiable metrics were added to emphasize the success of the candidate's efforts in enhancing the marketing campaigns.

Replacing Support with Facilitated ▾

• Supported training sessions for new hires

After: Facilitated • Facilitated comprehensive training sessions for over 100 new hires, accelerating their onboarding process by 25%

The verb 'Facilitated' shows more ownership than 'Supported'. By incorporating metrics, the bullet point now states the outcome of the training sessions the candidate ran, making their impact obvious.

Replacing Support with Enhanced ▾

• Supported website design team

After: Enhanced • Enhanced user experience on company's website, decreasing bounce rates by 20% and increasing daily visitor count by 40%

By using 'Enhanced', we turn a supportive role into a direct action leading to tangible results. The changes made give a clear view of the candidate's contributions and outcomes.

Replacing Support with Directed ▾

• Supported product launch activities

After: Directed • Directed a successful product launch, exceeding sales target by 30% and capturing significant market share within its first quarter

'Directed' indicates a more commanding role taken by a candidate. Furthermore, adding metrics showcasing the product launch's success heightens the candidate's importance.

Replacing Support with Streamlined ▾

• Supported company's operational procedures

After: Streamlined • Streamlined company's operational procedures, reducing costs by 15% and saving 10 hours weekly for staff

The phrase 'Streamlined' conveys an active role with clear deliverables. It's far more concrete and significant than 'Supported'. The added metrics show cost and time savings, which any employer would value.

Replacing Support with Negotiated ▾

• Supported contract negotiations with suppliers

After: Negotiated • Negotiated new contracts with suppliers, lowering raw material costs by 20%, thereby increasing profit margins

Instead of being a supporter in negotiations, 'Negotiated' paints the picture of a proactive candidate. Adding specific and measurable achievements strengthens it by providing evocative evidence of the candidate's success.

Replacing Support with Formalized ▾

• Supported the draft of new company policies

After: Formalized • Formalized new company policies, improving regulatory compliance by 90% and decreasing instances of workplace discrepancies

As a recruiter, I like the verb 'Formalized' as it instigates a sense of authority and responsibility. By stating the results of formalizing new policies, the candidate is shown as effectual.

Replacing Support with Revitalized ▾

• Supported customer retention efforts

After: Revitalized • Revitalized customer retention strategies, contributing to an increment in customer loyalty by 15%

The powerful term 'Revitalized' turns a candidate from a bystander to an active participant. The after sentence displays the positive results of their work, making them a more compelling hire.

Replacing Support with Transformed ▾

• Supported company’s internal communication activities

After: Transformed • Transformed company's internal communication activities, reducing misunderstandings among departments by 80% and increasing team productivity by 30%

I replaced passive language with 'Transformed' to show the candidate's active role. Including quantifiable results makes the candidate’s achievements more tangible.

Replacing Support with Led ▾

• Supported cross-functional team collaborations

After: Led • Led cross-functional collaborations that delivered five successful projects, each completed 10% more efficiently compared to the prior year

'Led' indicates decisiveness and significant contribution to the success of the project. Detailed, specific results reinforce the candidate's effectiveness.

Replacing Support with Cut ▾

• Supported cost-saving initiatives

After: Cut • Cut operational costs by 35% through a complete redefinition of procurement strategies

The word 'Cut' offers a more direct, active role in the outcome. The addition of an exact number emphasizes the significance of their accomplishments.

Replacing Support with Orchestrated ▾

• Supported business development efforts

After: Orchestrated • Orchestrated an ambitious business development plan, increasing revenue by $12M in three years

'Orchestrated' is a powerful action verb that shows leadership and initiative. Referencing the exact revenue increase adds weight to the achievement.

Replacing Support with Maximized ▾

• Supported efficiency improvements in production

After: Maximized • Maximized production efficiency by implementing lean manufacturing principles, reducing waste by 60%

I chose 'Maximized' to denote a proactive role in process improvement. I also highlighted the extent of improvements to emphasize the impact of the change.

Replacing Support with Amplified ▾

• Supported company's brand visibility on social media

After: Amplified • Amplified company's brand visibility on social media, which resulted in a 50% increase in followers within six months

'Amplified' implies a more determined and influential role in boosting the company’s brand visibility. I included a measurable result to show the effectiveness of the candidate's actions.

Replacing Support with Influenced ▾

• Supported the sales team in converting leads

After: Influenced • Influenced lead conversion rates with the sales team, generating a 30% growth in revenue over one fiscal year

The verb 'Influenced' helps show the candidate as a significant part of the team. By adding specific results, I was able to highlight the effects of their influence.

Replacing Support with Cultivated ▾

• Supported partnerships with local businesses

After: Cultivated • Cultivated partnerships with over 10 key local businesses, increasing joint ventures by 25% and boosting company revenue

'Cultivated' strengthens the sentence by showing the candidate's active role. Specific numbers quantify the results of the candidate’s efforts.

Replacing Support with Boosted ▾

• Supported customer service team to improve customer satisfaction

After: Boosted • Boosted customer satisfaction by 30% through retraining the customer service team and improving service protocols

I've changed 'supported' to 'Boosted' showing the candidate's positive impact. Including metrics and the method used gives a clear picture of the candidate's accomplishments.

Replacing Support with Refined ▾

• Supported the improvement of data management system

After: Refined • Refined the data management system, increasing retrieval speeds by 40% and reducing errors by 25%

By replacing 'supported' with 'Refined', I've depicted the candidate as an active participant in the project with a tangible impact, which is further underlined with specific improvements.

Replacing Support with Pioneered ▾

• Supported new software development

After: Pioneered • Pioneered the development of a proprietary software, reducing process time by 50%, and increasing productivity

'Pioneered' actively conveys the candidate's crucial role in the task. Including metrics, I've proven their value as a dynamic and result-oriented individual.

Replacing Support with Delivered ▾

• Supported the roll-out of new digital marketing strategy

After: Delivered • Delivered a new digital marketing strategy that accelerated website traffic growth by 45% and increased lead generation by 30%

I replaced 'Supported' with 'Delivered' to highlight the candidate took charge and made things happen. I added measurement to bring weight to the candidate's accomplishments.

Replacing Support with Elevated ▾

• Supported in enhancing the company's product portfolio

After: Elevated • Elevated the company's product portfolio by launching three superior products, leading to a 20% increase in market share

By replacing 'Supported' with 'Elevated', the candidate comes across as more influential. Quantifying the impact shows the broad effect on the business.

Replacing Support with Grew ▾

• Supported the team in expanding the client base

After: Grew • Grew the client base by 50% in one year by establishing and nurturing key partnerships

'Grew' shows active contribution and execution. By showcasing the extension of the client base as a direct result of the candidate’s efforts, it enhances their impact.

Replacing Support with Strengthened ▾

• Supported client relationship management

After: Strengthened • Strengthened client relationships, retaining 98% of client base and expanding business with 40% of existing clients

The term 'Strengthened' is more assertive than 'Supported' and implies active involvement. By incorporating metrics, the success of the candidate's work is boldly highlighted.

Replacing Support with Outperformed ▾

• Supported sales targets through individual performance

After: Outperformed • Outperformed sales targets consistently, achieving over 120% of the set targets for four consecutive quarters

To improve this bullet point, I replaced 'Supported' with 'Outperformed' to show the candidate as a high-achiever. Specific metrics were included to exemplify their exceptional performance.

How to use these synonyms in practice

We've put together an infographic to give you more examples of how to put this into practice. Note the use of strong action verbs instead of words like Support.

More resume bullet point samples that use strong synonyms

How to use designed on a resume:.

• Designed and implemented 50+ E2E tests using Selenium & Protractor, simulating each user group's actions.

How to use Developed on a resume:

• Developed go-to-market strategy for ~$100 million B2B market segment; led cross-functional team of 15+ internal stakeholders to prepare new product offering.

How to use Promoted on a resume:

• Promoted within 12 months due to strong performance and organizational impact - ahead of schedule by 12 months.

How to use Analyzed on a resume:

• Analyzed data from 25000 monthly active users and used outputs to guide marketing and product strategies; increased average app engagement time by 2x, decrease drop off rate by 30%, and increased shares on social media by 3x over 6 months.

How to use Doubled on a resume:

• Doubled new user acquisition from 10-15 users to 20-25 through the implementation of new marketing strategies focused on online advertising and improving the company's web presence, social media, and search engine optimization..

How to use Prepared on a resume:

• Prepared a 100 page pitch book summarizing findings and presented analysis to managing directors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for support on a resume.

If you're looking for another word to use in place of Support, consider using one of these stronger alternatives:

What is a better word for Support on a resume?

Get a free resume review: find out if your action verbs are strong enough..

As a next step, I'd recommend going through each of your resume's verbs and improving each one with stronger action verbs. The most effective way to do that is by uploading your resume to tool below. It'll tell you which parts of your resume need work, so you can improve them before a recruiter rejects you for them.

Related resume examples

Market researcher.

Policy Analyst

Research Assistant

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Resume Help

To get a job in a foreign company, or in a company with foreign management, each applicant is simply obliged to write a resume that meets international standards. Resume writing today has become as time-consuming a process as writing a report. Trying to write a resume on their own, many job seekers make a lot of mistakes, and only a site with resume help can help write a CV correctly.

Resume writing is not as difficult as it is said on the Internet

Many applicants are accustomed to the fact that the resume should contain only the previous job and position. In the modern world to CV put forward absolutely other requirements. Website resumehelpservice.com will help in customized resume writing for each client. After all, the summary of the new sample already contains as many as 7 points.

It is mandatory to specify personal data at the beginning of the resume, and then there is a goal, Job Objective. Customer service resume takes into account all your needs: who you see yourself in the company in the future, and even plans for personal growth. Resume help is not just a set of standard phrases about your prospects, it really is also an aid in realizing the benefits of a career in a large company.

Writing a resume using resumehelpservice.com -the first step to success

After the mandatory first points in the CV, you still need to specify education and work experience. The name of some educational institutions is difficult to translate into English without errors, and writing a resume using resumehelpservice.com will help you avoid absurdities during translation.

Using resume help you will avoid all the mistakes that make novice job seekers. For example, in the enumeration of professional skills when compiling customer service resume, it is necessary to mention those that do not directly relate to the position. When writing a resume, you can specify and possession of multimedia programs, even if now this skill is not relevant.

Customized resume writing for everyone individually and with a creative approach

Customer service resume will allow each potential employee to create a resume that will emphasize the strengths. Getting quality resume help, you can be sure that the employer will be fully satisfied with the information received. After all, during resume writing, such items as Hobbies and recommendations will be indicated.

With customer service resume, your CV will display information from previous employers with the most flattering reviews. And the opinion of other people when resume writing is very important even for ordinary HR, not to mention more senior management. Working on customized resume writing, it is also worth mentioning Hobbies. Sports will tell you that you are persistent and purposeful, and collecting will emphasize your perseverance. Just use resume help – and your dream job will become even closer.

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noun as in assistance, relief

Strongest matches

• cooperation

Strong matches

• maintenance
• nourishment
• helping hand

noun as in someone employed, usually as a servant or manual laborer.

verb as in aid, assist

• accommodate

Weak matches

• do a service
• do one's part
• go to bat for
• lend a hand
• see through
• stick up for
• take under one's wing

verb as in improve

Discover More

Example sentences.

In that situation, had there been a number to call to get the help of social workers, the result might have been different, according to Schwartz.

Don’t try to fix a ballot with tape or correction fluid if you mess up, and don’t be embarrassed to ask for help.

Eighty-five percent of restaurants will probably close if we don’t get some help from the government.

Extra step — check whether your structured data actually works with the help of Google’s Rich Result Test.

The legislation offered limited help to tenants of the Galleria.

That strategy has been used in some cases to help determine GMO policy.

In the end, the clarity that comes from moments of horror can help us recommit to deeper principles.

Sadly, it appears the American press often doesn't need any outside help when it comes to censoring themselves.

A Wall Street person should not be allowed to help oversee the Dodd-Frank reforms.

Finding the common bonds that help us realize that we have far more in common than that which separates us.

And to tell the truth, she couldn't help wishing he could see, so he could make the game livelier.

Then with your victorious legions you can march south and help drive the Yankee invaders from the land.

In fact, except for Ramona's help, it would have been a question whether even Alessandro could have made Baba work in harness.

Terror drives you on; fate coerces you; you can't help yourself, and my delight is to make the plunge terrible.

There is always in the background of my mind dread lest help should reach the enemy before we have done with Sedd-el-Bahr.

Related Words

Words related to help are not direct synonyms, but are associated with the word help . Browse related words to learn more about word associations.

noun as in ornament; accompanying item; supplementary part

• appurtenance

verb as in perform service

• convenience

noun as in benefit; favored position or circumstance

• gratification
• improvement
• pre-eminence
• recognition
• superiority

Viewing 5 / 145 related words

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for help .

A close synonym of the verb sense of help is assist . Assist can mean the same thing as help , but it can imply that the assistance is only part of the help being offered. The informal term lend a hand (in which a hand means assistance ) often means the same thing.

Some close synonyms for help can be used as a noun or as a verb: aid and support .

Each can have different shades of meaning. Aid is more formal, and it’s often used in the context of serious situations. Support can be used in different ways. It often emphasizes the fact that the person being helped is not alone.

Other synonyms for help are more specific. Guide means to help someone with a task or activity as they do it by providing guidance along the way—which is a bit more hands-on than advising (giving advice ).

Relief is often used in the context of helping those who are desperately in need, as in Multiple agencies are working to provide relief to those affected by the hurricane.

Many of the noun synonyms of help can be used with the word provide to create synonyms of the verb sense: provide assistance , provide aid , provide support (and of course provide help ).

Sometimes, help means the same thing as facilitate , further , promote , or foster , as This legislation will help economic growth .

What is a fancier word for help ?

Help is a very common word. Much less common terms that can mean the same thing are succor and abet .

Succor can be used as a noun or a verb—and it can also refer to a person who provides help. It can sound a bit literary or formal—it’s probably most commonly encountered in older literature.

Abet is most commonly used in the context of assisting someone with a crime—particularly in the phrase aid and abet.

What are some synonyms for other forms of help ?

What is another word for helping?

Helping describes giving aid, help, and support. Synonyms for this include assisting, guiding, and advising .

A ssisting suggests that you’re giving consistent or formalised support. Essentially, it implies that it’s part of your role to help out, where helping suggests that the help was optional. Guiding suggests that you’re more experienced than the person you’re helping , and you’re helping them to gain experience or improve. Advising also suggests that you know more than the person you’re helping, but in this case you’re offering advice when it’s needed. You might not have a hands-on role, but your advice is important.

What is another word for helpful?

If someone is helpful , you might describe them instead as supportive, friendly , useful , valuable or accommodating . Useful and valuable are most often used in workplaces to describe people, and you wouldn’t usually describe your friend that way. Supportive , friendly , and accommodating can be used in a wider variety of situations. Accommodating suggests that someone is understanding about your needs or requests, and will change things around to make you comfortable.

If something is helpful —say advice, or a certain tool—you might describe it as beneficial or invaluable . Beneficial means that it offers a benefit , and invaluable means that it’s beyond valuable —that it’s important or necessary.

What is another word for helper?

A helper is an assistant . They might be an apprentice if they’re helping you in order to learn a trade or profession. If you’re a supervillain, they might be a henchman . They might be your subordinate, your deputy , or your right-hand-man .

What can you say instead of helping others?

There’s no direct synonym for the phrase helping others , but depending on the circumstances, you could use giving advice, having a support role or offering guidance . Have a think about what kind of help you’re offering, and once you’ve found a more specific word you can build your own phrase around that!

What is another word for helpfulness?

Instead of helpfulness , you can use usefulness, assistance , or help .

On this page you'll find 335 synonyms, antonyms, and words related to help, such as: advice, aid, benefit, comfort, cooperation, and guidance.

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

Synonyms of resume

• as in to continue
• as in summary
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Thesaurus Definition of resume

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Synonyms & Similar Words

• proceed (with)
• resuscitate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• discontinue

Thesaurus Definition of résumé  (Entry 2 of 2)

• summarization
• recapitulation
• encapsulation
• run - through
• summing - up
• condensation
• curtailment
• streamlining
• abbreviation
• abridgement
• simplification
• amplification
• enlargement

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Cite this Entry

“Resume.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resume. Accessed 20 Jun. 2024.

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Free, Two Column resume template. The most popular choice for most roles, including programming & marketing.

The classic Harvard template, updated for the 21st century with a refined design that recruiters love and an optimized structure for improved ATS performance.

Elegant template with a beautiful design and compact, easy-to-read layout that highlights your strengths and achievements.

The most popular template for upper management roles, project managers and product owners.

A refined template, especially great for positions where presentation is paramount: business development managers, sales leaders & other customer-facing roles.

A creative template that accents your header and makes recruiters want to read the rest. Built for any industry.

A timeline resume template. Organized neatly with a Timeline to show your career progress. For experienced professionals.

Are you a software engineer or a data scientist with a lot of skills & projects to list on your resume? This template allows you to create a perfect one-page resume.

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Free, simple resume template. Easily readable by both humans and ATS bots.

Designed as a one-page resume template for mid-level roles with 3-10 years of experience.

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Multicolumn resume template. Made for executives to fit additional info in a third column.

Traditional resume template. Fitting for conservative industries.

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Data-focused resume template. Perfect for project and product managers.

Minimalistic resume template. Blends whitespace and content, without clutter.

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Jobscan > Resume Formats

Resume Formats That Help Get You Job Interviews

Find out how to choose the best resume format to showcase your skills, experience, and achievements.

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A good resume format organizes your skills, experience, and achievements. It tells hiring managers what they need to know.

Having a good resume format is important for another reason. It helps applicant tracking systems (ATS) read and understand your resume.

ATS is a computer software that most companies use today to help them hire employees. One of the main jobs of ATS is to screen the hundreds of resumes that come in for every job opening.

If your resume isn’t formatted the right way, the ATS will have trouble reading it. This makes it far less likely that a hiring manager will see your resume.

Don’t worry! Choosing a resume format isn’t as hard as it sounds. This article will guide you through the process.

By the end of it, you’ll know which resume format is best for your situation.

The 3 basic resume formats

There are three basic resume formats to choose from. They are:

• Chronological – Lists your work history in order, starting with your most recent job first.
• Functional – Focuses on your skills and accomplishments instead of your work history.
• Hybrid – Places your skills and accomplishments at the top, before your work history.

It’s important to understand the pros and cons of each format. This allows you to choose the one that best suits your specific situation and career goals.

After choosing a format, consider using a resume template to help create your resume. A template is a pre-designed layout that provides a structured framework for presenting your skills and experience. All you have to do is fill in your information.

Jobscan has a variety of free resume templates you can use. Our templates come in all three resume formats and each one is ATS-friendly.

Chronological

The chronological resume format

Also known as the “reverse chronological” resume, this is the most common type of format. You’re most likely already familiar with it.

As the name suggests, this format lists your most recent job first. Then your second-most recent job, your third-most recent job, etc…

Why do hiring managers like the chronological resume?

Hiring managers often prefer the chronological resume format for several reasons:

• It’s easy to follow – Recruiters can scan through your resume. It’s easy for them to find the companies you’ve worked for and the positions you’ve held.
• It’s the most traditional – Hiring managers are very familiar with this format. It won’t confuse them.
• It shows your career growth – Your work history makes it easy for recruiters to see how your career is going.

Who should use the chronological resume format?

Because this resume format focuses on work experience, it’s often used by job seekers who:

Have a strong work history

This format is ideal for job seekers who have lots of relevant work experience. It allows recruiters to see your career trajectory at a glance. They can get a good sense of the breadth and depth of your expertise.

Work in traditional industries

Many traditional industries prefer the chronological format. These industries include finance, engineering, healthcare, and legal professions. These sectors generally place a strong emphasis on a candidate’s work history.

Have a stable career path

The chronological resume is good at showing steady career growth within an industry. Hiring managers like to see this because it shows commitment.

How to set up a chronological resume

The reverse chronological resume contains the following sections, from top to bottom:

• Contact Information : Begin your resume with your name, phone number, and email address. You can also include a professional website or LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
• Resume Summary : This is a short statement about your goals, qualifications, and experience. It should provide a snapshot of your professional profile.
• Work Experience : This is the heart of the chronological resume. List your jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position. Include the company name, job title, and dates of employment. Add a brief description of your responsibilities and accomplishments for each role.
• Education : This section should also be in reverse chronological order. List degrees earned, school names, and graduation dates. You may also want to list academic honors or certifications relevant to your field.
• Skills : This section allows you to highlight relevant skills. Include both hard and soft skills.
• Additional Sections : Depending on your background, you may choose to include more sections. These could include volunteer work, hobbies, publications, or foreign languages.

You don’t have to create your resume from scratch. You can use a resume template. This is a pre-designed layout that includes all the sections listed above. All you have to do is fill in your information.

Jobscan has free resume templates . Each one is ATS-friendly and can be easily customized to suit your needs.

Pros and cons of the chronological resume format

• Draws attention to employment gaps – Shows if you’ve had periods of unemployment or job breaks.
• Not ideal for career changers – Does not highlight your transferable skills. These are important if you are making a significant career change.
• Less focus on skills – Does not immediately highlight your specific skills. These are listed later in a separate skills section.
• Emphasizes career progression – Highlights promotions, increased responsibilities, and relevant experience.
• Preferred by recruiters – This makes it easy for them to assess your work history.
• Shows career stability – A stable career shows commitment to a job or industry.
• ATS-friendly – Applicant tracking systems are familiar with this format. They should have no problem reading and understanding your information.

Functional resume format

This is also known as the skills-based resume format. It’s quite different from the chronological resume format.

The chronological format focuses on your work history. The functional format focuses on your skills and achievements. It minimizes your work experience.

This has several advantages:

• Focusing on your skills helps recruiters see if you can do the job.
• This format downplays negatives like employment gaps, career changes, and limited work experience. Instead, it focuses on positives, such as your transferable skills.
• This format also focuses on achievements that are relevant to the job you’re applying to. This makes it easier for recruiters to assess your capabilities.

Why do hiring managers like the functional format?

Actually, hiring managers don’t like the functional resume format!

This is because the lack of work experience makes it hard for them to understand your career. The functional format can also hide periods of unemployment. Hiring managers prefer transparency.

Another big reason why you shouldn’t use the functional resume format is that it’s not ATS-friendly.

ATS scan resumes for specific keywords, job titles, and dates. They use this information to assess an applicant’s qualifications for a specific job.

But functional resumes don’t focus on job titles and dates. So the ATS might have trouble reading and understanding them. As a result, functional resumes may not receive high rankings from an ATS.

Who should use the functional resume format?

While we don’t recommend using a functional resume, it can help certain job seekers. Especially those who:

Have transferable skills

Are you considering a career change? The functional format might be for you. It emphasizes your transferable skills that are relevant to the desired role.

Transferable skills are abilities that you can use in any job in any field or industry. They include things like communication, problem-solving, leadership, time management, organization, and adaptability.

Have limited work experience

The functional resume is for recent graduates or people with limited work experience. This is because it highlights things like your school achievements, hobbies, and volunteering.

Have employment gaps

The functional format downplays gaps in your work history. It redirects the focus of hiring managers toward your skills.

How to set up a functional resume

When creating a functional resume, follow this structure:

• Contact Information: This is the same regardless of which resume format you choose. Include your name, phone number, email address, and location.
• Resume Summary: The resume summary provides a concise snapshot of your qualifications. It should touch upon your unique skills, expertise, and accomplishments. The goal is to attract the reader’s interest.
• Skills Section : This is the heart of your functional (or skills-based) resume. This section should include a combination of hard skills (technical abilities specific to the job) and soft skills (transferable skills like communication , leadership , problem-solving , etc.).
• Use bullet points when creating your skills section. List your most relevant skills first. Whenever possible, try to include achievements that display relevant skills.
• Work Experience: Whatever work experience you have should come after your skills section. Don’t list detailed job descriptions. Instead, focus on the accomplishments, projects, and experiences that show your skills.
• Education : Include information about your educational background. This includes degrees earned, institution names, and graduation dates. Also include relevant coursework, certifications , or academic achievements.

If you don’t want to build your functional resume from scratch, try Jobscan’s free resume templates . They’re easy to customize and each one is ATS-friendly.

Pros and cons of the functional resume format

• Lack of detailed work history – Employers often want to see your work experience to see if you can do the job.
• No career timeline – Recruiters may find it hard to grasp the chronology of your work experience. This is because the focus is on your skills.
• Less suitable for established industries – Some industries focus more on work history.
• Highlights skills and achievements – This shows employers that you have what it takes to do the job.
• Good for career changers – This format focuses on your transferable skills. These give recruiters a good idea of your potential.
• Hides employment gaps – This format can lessen concerns about gaps in your work history.

Hybrid resume format

The hybrid resume format is becoming more popular. It combines the best aspects of the chronological and functional resume formats.

That’s why it’s called a hybrid .

The hybrid resume emphasizes both skills and work history. It features a dedicated skills section at the top of the resume. Below that is a chronological work experience section.

This format is especially helpful when you have lots of work experience but also want to show off your skills and accomplishments.

Why do hiring managers like the hybrid format?

Hiring managers appreciate the hybrid resume format for several reasons:

• It strikes a balance – Recruiters can see your skills and your work experience.
• It focuses on key skills – Sometimes recruiters want to make sure you have the skills to do the job. This resume format tells them immediately.
• It shows career progression – The hybrid resume provides a clear overview of your career path.

Who should use the hybrid resume format?

Anyone can use the hybrid resume format to great advantage. It’s especially suited to job seekers who:

Have a diverse skill set

You might have the perfect skills for the job. But your work experience is a little weak. This format allows you to feature your skills while downplaying your work experience.

Want to emphasize achievements

The hybrid format allows you to showcase achievements as well as skills at the top of your resume.

Are changing careers

The hybrid is good if you are transitioning to a new field. It focuses more on your transferable skills and slightly less on your work history.

How to set up a hybrid resume

When creating a hybrid resume, follow this structure:

• Contact Information : Begin with your name, contact details, phone number, and email address. You can also include your professional website or LinkedIn profile (if applicable).
• Resume Summary: Try to distill your entire resume into a short, easy-to-read blurb. Summaries can help career changers who need a place to explain a shift in career trajectory.
• Skills Section : Use bullet points to list your skills and achievements. Include both hard skills and soft skills.
• Work Experience: List your jobs in reverse chronological order. Start with your most recent or current position. Include the company name, job title, and dates of employment. Also, include a brief description of your responsibilities and accomplishments for each role.
• Education : List your education as you would on a chronological resume. Include degrees earned, school names, and graduation dates. You may also want to list academic honors or certifications relevant to your field.

If you don’t want to build your hybrid resume from scratch, try Jobscan’s free resume templates . They’re easy to customize and each one is ATS-friendly.

Pros and cons of the hybrid resume format

• Can result in a longer resume – The hybrid format may result in a longer resume. This is due to the inclusion of both a skills section and a detailed work history. But this shouldn’t be a problem as long as your resume isn’t more than two pages.
• Requires more thought – It can be hard to achieve the right balance between skills and work history. It requires thoughtful consideration and planning.
• Highlights your skills – By showing your skills first, this format captures the attention of hiring managers who are looking for them.
• Showcases your career progression – This format includes a chronological work experience section. This gives employers a good sense of your professional background and experience.
• Adaptable – The hybrid resume is flexible and easy to customize for specific jobs.
• ATS-friendly – ATS should have no problem reading this type of resume format.

If you’re still not sure which format to use for your resume, follow this flowchart to help you decide based on your situation.

How to format your resume so an ATS can read it

It’s important to choose the right resume format. But it’s also important to optimize your resume layout and content for an ATS.

If your resume is not optimized for an ATS, it’s less likely to make it into the hands of a hiring manager. Even if you have relevant skills and experience.

Here are some tips for creating a resume that will get past the initial screening of an ATS.

• Use standard fonts – Stick to common fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid fancy or decorative fonts. The ATS may not recognize them.
• Keep it simple – Avoid excessive formattings, such as tables, images, or graphics, as they may confuse the ATS.
• Use simple headings – Use headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills”. The ATS can read these without a problem.
• Use plain text – Stick to basic formatting like bullet points and simple indentation. Avoid using headers or footers, text boxes, columns, or special characters.
• Use a font size that is easy to read – The recommended font size is 11-12 pt for regular text and 14-16 pt for section titles.
• Use the right margin – Make sure that the margins on all sides of your resume are 1 inch so that it doesn’t look too crowded.
• Include relevant keywords – Read the job description and pick out prominent keywords. Incorporate these keywords throughout your resume. This helps the ATS recognize your qualifications. It will then rank your resume higher in the search results.
• Use standard file formats – Save your resume as a .docx or .pdf file. These formats are widely compatible with most ATS systems.
• Avoid abbreviations and acronyms – Spell out acronyms and avoid excessive abbreviations. The ATS may not recognize uncommon abbreviations.
• Keep the file name simple – When saving your resume, use a simple file name. You could use the word “resume” for example. This makes it easier for the ATS and hiring managers to identify and organize your file.

Pro Tip : Use Jobscan’s free resume templates to start building your resume. All our templates are ATS-friendly and easy to customize.

5 tips for writing a resume that will get you interviews

Here are some additional tips that will help you create an effective resume:

Tailor each resume to the job you are applying for

Don’t make the mistake of sending out the exact same resume with every application. Yes, it’s easy. It’s also ineffective.

Instead, read the job description to find out which skills and qualifications are most important. Then try to include those skills on your resume.

When you use the same language on your resume that’s found in the job description, you increase your chances of getting an interview.

Highlight achievements as well as responsibilities

While it’s important to list your job responsibilities on your resume, you also want to highlight accomplishments .

Responsibilities are what you did. Accomplishments are how well you did it.

For example, if you increased sales or reduced costs, be sure to mention these accomplishments.

Use action verbs

Action verbs paint a clearer picture of your qualifications. They increase the overall impact of your resume.

Instead of simply stating that you were “responsible for” a certain task or project, explain how you took charge and made it happen.

For example, you could say that you “spearheaded a new initiative” or “coordinated a complex team effort.”

Use numbers

Try to use numbers whenever possible. Numbers show the true scope of your accomplishments to hiring managers.

Instead of saying that you “Created marketing campaigns” you could say that you “Created 10 successful marketing campaigns that generated a 20% increase in leads.”

Use active voice, not passive

Always try to use active voice instead of passive voice when writing your resume. Active voice is more direct, concise, and easier to read.

In active voice, the subject of the sentence is doing the verb. In passive voice, the subject is being acted upon by the verb.

If you’re not sure whether your resume is using active or passive voice, try running it through the Hemingway editor . It’s free and will tell you if you’re using passive voice.

Additional resume resources

Selecting the right resume format is the first step to creating an impactful resume. To learn more about how to create a resume that will stand out, check out these additional resources:

• How to Write a Resume That Recruiters Will Really Love – This step-by-step resume guide will teach you how to write a resume that stands out.
• How to Add Work Experience to Your Resume – Learn how to create a work experience section that will grab the attention of hiring managers.
• 8 Things You Need to Know About Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) – Here’s everything you need to know about ATS. What they are, how they work, and especially how you can “beat” them!
• How to Write a Strong Resume Skills Section – Here are the top resume skills employers are looking for. Learn how to list them on your resume.
• Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills – Learn the difference between hard and soft skills and why you need both on your resume.
• Free Professional Resume Templates – These ATS-friendly resume templates feature sleek, minimalist designs.

FAQs about resume formats

What does ats-friendly resume format mean.

An ATS-friendly resume format is one that can be read by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Employers use these systems to manage and filter large volumes of resumes.

When you use an ATS-friendly format , it increases the chances that a hiring manager will find your resume.

Is a resume format the same as a resume template?

No, they are two different things.

Resume format refers to the structure and organization of the content in a resume. A resume template refers to a pre-designed layout you can use to create a resume.

Is there a separate student resume format?

There isn’t a specific “student resume format” per se. Students generally use the same resume formats as other job seekers. But they may emphasize different sections or information.

A student’s resume highlights coursework, internships, part-time jobs, extracurricular activities, and academic achievements.

What is the best resume format for 2023?

The best resume format for you depends on your specific circumstances. This includes your work experience, career goals, and the industry you’re targeting.

Having said that, we like the hybrid resume format .

Employers are looking for job candidates who have the right skills. And the hybrid resume features skills right at the top of the resume. Employers also want to see a work experience section on a resume. The hybrid has that as well.

This powerful combination of skills and experiences makes the hybrid resume our top choice for 2023 and beyond.

Free Professional Resume Templates

Jobscan’s free Microsoft Word compatible resume templates feature sleek, minimalist designs and are formatted for the applicant tracking systems that virtually all major companies use.

Explore more resume resources

How to write a resume

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