resume words verbs

185+ Action Verbs to Make Your Resume Stand Out in 2024

Most resume bullet points start with the same tired old words hiring managers have read over and over (think: tasked with, responsible for, experience in) to the point where they’ve lost a lot of their meaning. They also don’t do much to show off your accomplishments , and instead tend to just communicate your job duties. Let’s get a little more creative, shall we?

Next time you update your resume , switch up a few of those common words and phrases with strong, compelling action verbs that will catch hiring managers’ eyes.

What is an action verb and how to use it on your resume?

Action verbs convey doing —for example, “She walked to the door,” or, “The dog chased the ball.” On your resume, action verbs show readers you accomplished something at your past jobs, you weren’t just “responsible for” it. Instead you “streamlined” or “coordinated” or “executed” it. You got the job done and you achieved something in the process.

But be careful: Not all action verbs are as strong as others. For example, words like “led” or “handled” may have their place on a resume (sparingly), but don’t give the reader any details about how you did it. Did you lead by assigning work to a team; by creating a road map for a project; by organizing resources, people, and deadlines; or by doing some combination of the three?

Impress hiring managers with these action verbs and secure your next interview! Find the perfect fit by looking for more open jobs on The Muse »

No matter what duty or accomplishment you’re trying to show off, we’ve got just the resume action verb for you. Check out the list below, and get ready to make your resume way more exciting.

Action verbs for when you led a project

If you were in charge of a project or initiative from start to finish, skip “led” and instead try:

• Administered
• Coordinated
• Orchestrated
• Spearheaded

Actions for when you envisioned and brought a project to life

And if you actually developed, created, or introduced that project into your company? Try:

• Established
• Implemented
• Incorporated

Action verbs list for when you increased efficiency, productivity, profit, sales, revenue, or customer satisfaction (or reduced costs or time spent)

If you can show that your work boosted the company’s numbers in some way, you’re bound to impress. In these cases, consider:

• Accelerated
• Capitalized
• Consolidated

Action verbs for when you changed or improved something

Did you bring your department’s invoicing system out of the Stone Age and into the 21st century? Talk about the amazing changes you made at your office with these words:

• Centralized
• Rehabilitated
• Reorganized
• Restructured
• Revitalized
• Standardized
• Streamlined
• Strengthened
• Transformed

Action verbs for when you managed a team

While “managed” may have a place on your resume (especially if it’s a keyword ), phrases like “Managed a team…” or “Managed employees…” are just reciting your job duties. Instead, you can show what an inspirational leader you were with terms like:

• Facilitated

Action verbs for when you brought in partners, funding, resources, or clients

Were you “responsible for” a great new partner, sponsor, source of funding, or client? Try:

Action verbs for when you supported customers

Because monitoring the phones, answering questions, or providing customer service really means you’re advising customers and meeting their needs, use:

• Recommended

Action verbs for when you did research or analysis

Did your job include research, analysis, or fact-finding? Mix up your verbiage with these words:

• Interpreted
• Interviewed
• Investigated

Action verbs for when you communicated

Was writing, speaking, lobbying, or otherwise communicating part of your gig? You can explain just how compelling you were with words like:

• Corresponded
• Illustrated

Action verb examples for when you oversaw or regulated

Whether you enforced protocol or managed your department’s requests, describe what you really did, better, with these words:

• Adjudicated
• Scrutinized

Action verbs for when you achieved something

Did you hit your goals? Win a coveted department award ? Don’t forget to include that on your resume, with words like:

• Demonstrated
• Outperformed

Regina Borsellino contributed writing, reporting, and/or advice to this article.

340+ Resume Action Verbs & Power Words [For 2024]

Language matters in a resume.

Imagine this:

You’re a busy HR manager, and you read hundreds, even thousands, of resumes every day.

And every single one of them sounds the same.

“Responsible for”

“Critical Thinker”

“Team Player”

You’re bound to see these words on just about every single resume.

And guess what? They’re boring.

That’s where power words come in. They make your responsibilities and achievements really pop!

So, do you want your resume to really stand out? Use some of these 340+ action words:

• Why Power Words Matter

How to use Resume Action Words [+Examples & Tips]

340+ resume action verbs and power words [w/ examples].

• Resume Power Adjectives
• Resume Buzzwords to Avoid

Why Power Words Matter 

Power words help show off your top achievements in the best way possible.

Don’t believe us? Let’s compare an example with and without power words.

• Spearheaded company X’s content marketing operations.
• Responsible for content marketing at company X.

See the difference?

Both of these examples say exactly the same thing .

The main difference is that the second wording makes you seem a LOT more competent.

Something to keep in mind - power words, action words, action verbs, and so on are synonyms. So, don’t be surprised to see that we use them interchangeably in this article!

Other than allowing you to stand out, action words can also be used to say one thing in different ways. We’ve seen way too many resumes that have “Responsible for” all over the place!

So, instead of:

• Responsible for managing company X’s Instagram account.
• Responsible for connecting with influencers in the niche.

You could say:

• Managed company X’s Instagram account.
• Connected with popular influencers in the niche.

In this article, we have conveniently grouped 340+ action words to help you upgrade your resume descriptions:

• Resume Power Words for Team Work and Communication
• Resume Action Words Management and Leadership Achievements
• Resume Power Words to Showcase your Creativity

Resume Power Words for Problem Solving Accomplishments

Resume action verbs for research, analysis, and planning.

• Resume Power Verbs for “Support”
• Resume Power Words to Use Instead of “Improved”
• Resume Power Words to Use Instead of “Responsible For”

Resume Action Words to Use Instead of “Worked On”

• Resume Action Verbs that Mean “Use”

Action words can really spice up your resume if done right.

Now, we’re going to explain all the do's and don’t of using power verbs...

Which power words should you use? 

The type of power words you use will depend on the position you are applying for. 

Do a detailed scan of the job posting and single out the key responsibilities and requirements. 

Determine which of your abilities and experiences apply to those job requirements. 

Then, look for power words in our list that describe those achievements. 

Pretty straightforward, right?

Although the power words will be specific to the position you are applying for, there are some general rules to follow: 

• Choose resume power words that can be measured . This way you can follow the power word with a tangible achievement, for example: “ enhanced customer base by 35%.”
• Don’t use subjective words . “I’m amazing at” , “I’m incredible at” aren’t as pleasing to hear as you might think. These statements make you appear self-involved, which recruiters find appalling. Don’t tell them you’re amazing, show them with a measurable power word!

How often should you use power words? 

Sadly, just like with anything good in life, action words will lose their value if you overdo it. Instead of power words, they’ll just look like sprinkled mambo-jumbo that doesn’t mean anything.

Also, your resume is swamped with power words, your hiring manager might get turned off and think you’re trying too hard. 

A good rule to follow is to not add more than one or two action verbs in a sentence.  

Use them appropriately and moderately. 

Resume Power Words for Teamwork and Communication

If your job was to give guidance or communicate information to a team, you:

• 2. Advocated
• 3. Clarified
• 4. Corresponded
• 6. Gathered
• 8. Informed
• 9. Interpreted
• 10. Persuaded
• 11. Publicized
• Gathered external data for the project-planning personnel and advised on the implementation of capital projects. 

When you were part of a team:

• 13. Enabled
• 14. Encouraged
• 15. Facilitated
• 16. Fostered
• 17. Inspired
• 18. Supported
• 19. Collaborated
• Made a $6M merger through collaboration with an international team.

When you supervised a team: 

• 21. Evaluated
• 22. Instructed
• 23. Mentored
• 24. Motivated
• 25. Regulated
• Mentored 5 startup founders in the last 2 years. 

Resume Action Words for Management and Leadership Achievements

When you reach a goal:

• 27. Achieved
• 28. Attained
• 29. Strengthened
• 30. Initiated
• 31. Coordinated
• 32. Developed
• 33. Managed
• 34. Orchestrated
• Coordinated data integrity within the company’s applicant tracking system. 
• Strengthened the sales and service culture through coaching and guidance. 

When you gave a different approach to solving a problem:

• 35. Implemented
• 36. Recommended
• 37. Overhauled
• 38. Improved
• 39. Streamlined 
• 40. Prioritized
• Improved and tuned networking equipment and overall computer network. 

When you worked with other people:

• 41. Motivated
• 42. Supervised
• 43. Delegated
• 44. Chaired
• Supervised and motivated a team of 5+ sales associates. 

Resume Action Words to Showcase your Creativity 

When you helped the company innovate or launch something new:

• 45. Conceptualized
• 46. Designed
• 47. Devised
• 48. Determined
• 49. Drafted
• 50. Formulated
• 51. Introduced
• 52. Initiated
• 53. Launched
• 54. Originated
• 55. Spearheaded
• Designed a new feature on a mobile equation solving app. 

When you worked on an established idea:

• 56. Adapted
• 57. Applied
• 59. Condensed
• 60. Customized
• 61. Fashioned
• 62. Integrated
• 63. Modified
• 64. Patched
• 65. Piloted
• 67. Revitalized
• Built the company sales processes ground-up.

When you introduced a finished project:

• 68. Displayed
• 69. Modeled
• 70. Launched
• 71. Performed
• 72. Pioneered
• Launched an e-commerce website to take the company business online. 

When you worked with data, statistics or numbers: 

• 73. Audited
• 74. Budgeted 
• 75. Calculated
• 76. Converted
• 77. Crafted
• 78. Documented
• 79. Estimated
• 80. Inventoried
• 81. Programmed 
• 82. Projected 
• 83. Recorded
• 84. Verified
• Calculated monthly and quarterly investment forecasts.

When you corrected mistakes and errors:

• 85. Debugged
• 86. Diagnosed
• 87. Established
• 89. Rectified
• 90. Lessened
• 91. Reconciled
• 92. Remodeled
• 93. Rebuilt
• 94. Upgraded
• 95. Corrected
• Debugged internal operating system issues, reducing company cost by 15%

When you kept company processes flowing seamlessly: 

• 96. Conserved
• 97. Maintained
• 98. Operated
• 99. Regulated
• 100. Refined
• 101. Simplified
• 102. Standardized
• Maintained design production under an extremely tight budget. 

When you prepared or helped prepare an event:

• 103. Assembled
• 104. Conducted
• 105. Organized
• Organized meetings and handled all correspondence for the Scranton branch.

When you analyzed a new idea:

• 106. Experimented
• 107. Detected
• 108. Discovered
• 109. Measured
• 110. Mapped
• 111. Probed
• 112. Searched
• 113. Surveyed
• 114. Studied
• Surveyed and documented weekly performance reports on a new marketing strategy.

When you analyzed existing practices and ideas:

• 115. Analyzed
• 116. Assessed
• 117. Clarified
• 118. Checked
• 119. Examined
• 120. Explored
• 121.Evaluated
• 122. Investigated
• 123. Quantified
• 124. Reviewed
• 125. Tested
• 126. Tracked
• 127. Convert
• Converted data into actionable insight, boosting revenue by 5%

When you contributed to solving a problem:

• 128. Critiqued
• 129. Diagnosed
• 130. Identified
• 131. Invented
• 132. Proved
• 133. Solved
• Provided an extraordinary customer service experience, solved customer issues and upsold other products or services. 

Resume Power Verbs to Use For “Support”

When you were supportive of others through words: 

• 134. Advised
• 135. Answered
• 136. Clarified
• 137. Motivated
• 138. Collaborated
• 139. Fielded
• 140. Guided
• 141. Intervened
• 142. Referred
• 143. Resolved
• Motivated co-workers by rewarding positive behavior, encouraging optimism and stimulating teamwork.

When you were supportive of others through actions: 

• 145. Assisted
• 146. Contributed
• 147. Provided
• 148. Volunteered
• Volunteered in 3 non-profit social organizations.

When you taught others:

• 149. Coached
• 150. Counseled
• 151. Demonstrated
• 152. Educated
• 153. Informed 
• Consulted 5 startups that became successful scaleups in Europe and together received investments of over €28 million.

Resume Power Words to Use as a Replacement for “Improved”

Did you leave the company you worked for better than when you came in? 

That’s cool, but if you say you “improved” something four times in a row, it loses its impact.

Use the list below to mix it up:

• 154. Amplify
• 155. Boosted 
• 156. Converted
• 157. Customized
• 158. Elaborated
• 160. Integrated
• 161. Lifted
• 162. Merged
• 163. Overhauled
• 164. Raised
• 165. Redesigned
• 166. Refined
• 167. Remodeled
• 168. Reorganized
• 169. Restructured
• 170. Revamped
• 172. Slashed
• 173. Streamlined
• 174. Strengthened
• 175. Updated
• 176. Upgraded 
• Boosted the AdWords click-through rates (CTR) from 25% to 37% without additional costs, which increased monthly sales by $5,000. 

Resume Power Words to Use Instead of “Responsible for”

Using “responsible for” in a resume gets old fast. Instead, use these alternative verbs that *pop*:

• 177. Accomplished
• 178. Acquired
• 179. Achieved
• 180. Acted As
• 181. Completed
• 182. Created
• 183. Executed
• 184. Finished
• 185. Forged
• 187. Navigated
• 188. Negotiated
• 189. Operated
• 190. Partnered
• 191. Performed
• 192. Prepared
• 193. Produced
• 194. Secured
• 195. Succeeded In
• 196. Undertook
• Navigated three simultaneous projects between 3 departments within the budget limit. 

Most of your job descriptions will be describing things you contributed to. This makes it tough to be original and show value.

In this case, you should try to be as specific as possible by giving details about your accomplishments. 

Here’s a list to help you replace the overused “worked on” and show value:

• 197. Arranged
• 198. Compiled
• 199. Composed
• 200. Constructed
• 201. Created
• 202. Developed
• 203. Engaged In
• 204. Fashioned
• 205. Forged
• 206. Formulated
• 208. Made Progress On
• 209. Operated
• 210. Organized
• 211. Perfected
• 212. Prepared
• 213. Pursued
• 214. Put Together
• 215. Set-Up
• 216. Undertook
• Created over 25 professional logos for companies in multiple industries, from small startups to large corporations.

Resume Action Verbs that Mean “Use” 

Instead of “utilize” or “use” replace them with these power words:

• 219. Deploy
• 220. Employ
• 222. Handle
• 223. Mobilize
• 224. Operate
• 225. Promote
• 226. Profit by
• 227. Put to Use
• 228. Restore
• 229. Revive
• 230. Resort to
• 231. Specialize in
• Handled full sales cycle for the company’s three biggest clients.

Resume Power Adjectives [w/ Examples]

Power adjectives have the same function as power verbs, but instead, they are…you guessed it: adjectives .

Unlike power verbs, you can use power adjectives beyond describing Professional Experience.

In this section, we'll cover how to use power adjectives in your resume summary, professional experience, and skills.

Then, we’re going to give you a complete list of the best power adjectives you can use in your resume.

Using Buzz Adjectives in the Resume Summary Section

The resume summary section is a short pitch to your prospective employer. You use it to summarize your most relevant experience, skills, and achievements.

When done right, adding some power adjectives can help your resume summary stand out.

Take a look at these examples:

• Caregiver with 5+ years of extensive experience. Recognized for providing heartfelt emotional support to clients. 
• Loving caregiver who has been working in an elderly home for 5 years. The perfect choice for delivering emotional support to clients.

The first example focuses on the candidate’s personal qualities, rather than her skills. Whereas the second example is professional and leaves a much more powerful impact. 

Want to know how to write the perfect summary for your resume?

Check out our complete guide, filled with professional examples and practical tips!

Using Power Adjectives in the Professional Experience Section

When you are describing your professional experience, power adjectives should be used sparingly. 

You already have plenty of action verbs in there, so don’t double down on the power words by adding an adjective. It’s either one or the other. 

Take a look at this example on how they can be strategically placed in a job description:

• Developed harmonious relationships with 70% of the patients, resulting in higher overall patient happiness.
• Developed relationships with 70% of the patients, resulting in overall patient happiness.

Using Power Adjectives in the Skills section

Don’t use power adjectives as a skill on their own. Don’t list “Intelligent” or “Professional” as a skill. Those are subjective personal traits.

Instead, use power adjectives only when they affirm your competency in another skill.

For example:

French and German vs Fluent in French and German 

Management skills vs Strong Management Skills 

The Best Power Adjectives [Divided by Category] 

Power adjectives for analytical thinking.

Are you constantly doing work that calls for putting your thinking hat on? 

This list is perfect for describing the detailed, calculating tasks you complete on a daily basis. 

They’re usually valuable for industries that require complicated critical thinking: IT , finance , telecommunications, engineering . 

• 232. Astute
• 233. Insightful
• 234. Methodical
• 235. Practical
• 236. Calculating
• 237. Intelligent
• 238. Meticulous
• 239. Shrewd
• 240. Complex
• 241. Investigative
• 242. Objective
• 243. Strategic
• 244. Discerning
• 245. Logical
• 246. Perceptive
• 247. Thoughtful

Power Adjectives for Creativity 

Use the adjective list below to describe creative work: 

• 248. Cutting-edge 
• 249. Imaginative 
• 250. Novel 
• 251. Sophisticated 
• 252. Elegant 
• 253. Ingenious 
• 254. Progressive
• 255. Unique 
• 256. First-class 
• 257. Innovative 
• 258. Revolutionary 
• 259. Unprecedented 
• 260. Groundbreaking 
• 261. Inventive 
• 262. Robust 
• 263. World-class

Power Adjectives for Productivity

• 264. Accomplished 
• 265. Economical 
• 266. Instrumental
• 267. Skilled 
• 268. Adept 
• 269. Expert 
• 270. Productive 
• 271. Skillful 
• 272. Advanced 
• 273. Fluent 
• 274. Proficient 
• 275. Strong 
• 276. Competent 
• 277. Ideal 
• 278. Profitable 
• 279. Superior 
• 280. Constructive 
• 281. Industrious 
• 282. Significant 
• 283. Qualified 
• 284. Cost-effective 
• 285. Influential 
• 286. Smooth 
• 287. Quality

Power Adjectives for Dedication

Recruiters love seeing genuine interest from a candidate. The words below are great for showing your dedication and high-spirits:

• 288. Committed
• 289. Devoted 
• 290. Genuine
• 291. Sincere 
• 292. Dedicated 
• 293. Earnest 
• 295. Spirited 
• 296. Determined 
• 297. Energetic 
• 298. Passionate 
• 299. Wholehearted

Power Adjectives to Describe Hard Work

Are you a diligent and driven person? Are you prepared to pull up tiring all-nighters to complete important projects? 

Here are some adjectives that compliment your hard work: 

• 300. Alert 
• 301. Driven 
• 302. Motivated 
• 303. Thorough 
• 304. Attentive
• 305. Enterprising 
• 306. Persistent 
• 307. Tireless 
• 308. Concerted 
• 309. Focused 
• 310. Studious 
• 311. Vigorous

Power Adjectives to Describe You as Organized and Systematic

• 312. Businesslike
• 313. Detail-oriented
• 314. Smooth
• 315. Systematic 
• 316. Controlled 
• 317. Orderly 
• 318. Step-by-step 
• 319. Timely 
• 320. Detailed 
• 321. Precise 
• 322. Structured

Power Adjectives for Communication and Teamwork 

Being friendly, understanding and sociable are key qualities for anyone working in a team setting or with customers and clients on a daily basis. 

Use these words to help describe your skills:

• 323. Amiable
• 324. Cheerful 
• 325. Cooperative 
• 326. Personable 
• 327. Amicable 
• 328. Clear 
• 329. Cordial 
• 330. Pleasant 
• 331. Articulate 
• 332. Coherent 
• 333. Courteous 
• 334. Positive 
• 336. Cohesive 
• 337. Diplomatic 
• 338. Respectful 
• 339. Charming 
• 340. Conscientious 
• 341. Harmonious 
• 342. Team-minded

Resume Buzzwords to Avoid 

Buzzwords are the opposite of power verbs.

They’re boring, overused, and hated by managers world-wide .

Here are some of the most popular buzzwords you should avoid:

• Hard worker
• Strategic thinker
• Outside the box
• Responsible for
• Specialized in
• Results-driven
• Team Player
• Detail Oriented
• In charge of 

Key Takeaways

Here’s everything we learned in this article:

• You can use power words to spice up your resume and add variety to your language. They are mostly verbs but can also be adjectives.
• To decide which power words to use, do a detailed scan of the job listing and identify the key responsibilities the employer is looking for. Your power words will be emphasizing how you have shown these traits. Be careful not to use more than one power word per sentence.
• Try using power verbs more often than power adjectives. It’s all about action!

Looking for more ways to improve your resume?

Suggested readings:

• How to Pick the Best Resume Format [+ Examples]
• How to List Education On a Resume [13+ real-life examples]
• What’s the Best Resume Font, Size, and Format [for 2024]

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300+ Powerful Resume Action Verbs (with Examples)

Achievement

Communication, project management, people management, customer service, problem solving, organization.

Every schoolchild knows that a verb is a "doing" word. Hopefully your career has been all about "doing" things, so your resume action verbs need to be particularly carefully chosen. They will frame your accomplishments.

What was the situation and what was the nature of the action that you took? 

Now, be careful…. choose your resume words wisely as you risk sounding the same as other candidates. Worse still, you might use the same word over and over again. Trust me, hiring managers will notice if you substitute powerful resume action verbs with bland cliched language.

So, to offer some assistance, we have come up with a list of the most impactful resume action verbs, collated into fifteen categories, with bullet-pointed examples that might fit into a resume or cover letter. 

We cover the following:

• 3 benefits of resume action verbs in a job search
• 300+ resume action verbs in 15 categories with examples
• Expert tips about where and how to use action verbs for impact

I bet you thought verbs and resume words could never be so exciting? Well, you should be excited, because choosing the right words is the first step to your new job.

These very resume action verbs could make the difference between you securing an interview over another candidate who is less discerning. When every word on your resume is obviously chosen with care, it says a lot about you as a person. Let’s explore why they are so important in highlighting accomplishments :

3 benefits of action verbs in a job search

There are many advantages of using action-oriented vibrant language in your applications, but the three main benefits of resume action verbs for a job search are:

• Resume action verbs elevate your existing accomplishments, showing how you can contribute in similar way to a new employer
• Action verbs help you avoid cliched or passive language in a resume
• They demonstrate you’ve actually paid attention to the job description, which makes a favorable impression on recruiters.

Thinking through the most suitable action verbs for your job search is not only useful for your resume. 

Whether your vibrant verbs and lively language are choices for resume words or cover letter words, it's about making both documents as efficient as possible. Every bit of communication, whether written or oral will be optimized if you choose your resume words carefully. Your cover letter will obviously benefit alongside your resume. You might be asked to give a potted history of your career over the phone with a recruiter, and you don’t want to be searching for the right word amidst the pressure of an interview. Use the action verbs in your resume when you meet the hiring manager in person - they will be doubly resonant.

These three benefits of action verbs outline how to boost your job search and why you should bookmark this blog for repeated viewing: 

Elevate your existing accomplishments with action verbs

Many of us think that our career achievements seem a little too “normal” for us to get that dream job. While that may or may not be the case, there is a way of elevating the accomplishments so that they stand out from the crowd: with carefully selected action verbs to highlight your accomplishments.

If you are starting your bullet pointed achievements with impactful action verbs that embellish your actions (whilst not changing the accomplishment itself), you are taking your candidature to another level. The action verb itself will already allow the hiring manager to imagine you doing something impactful.

Most people will write: “Managed a team of five analysts.” You will write: “Coached and mobilized a team of five insightful analysts.” Oooh, mobilized. I wonder why they had to be mobilized. Surely there is a story behind that word? Action verbs make a hiring manager curious. Curiosity leads to an interview invite.

Obviously, there is much more to writing an impactful accomplishment than the first word, but, for the purposes of this article, that crucial first verb (or two) is all that matters.

Avoid overused descriptions by using action words instead

Are you a detail-oriented team player, who thinks outside the box to achieve results? I can tell you that this sentence will impress a grand total of zero hiring managers. It would also confuse a five-year-old, which is a great test of simple but effective writing. 

I can tell you that you can convey the same ideas by using the right action words at the start of your accomplishments (while, at the same time, actually telling the hiring manager about something worthwhile rather than irrelevant fluff). Sidestep bland and boring language by utilizing action verbs in your resume.

Here’s how you can substitute overused cliches with powerful resume action verbs:

• “Detail-oriented” – use an action verb from the “researched” category.
• “Team player” – use an action word from the “teamwork” section.
• “Thinks outside the box” (uurgh) – use an action verb from the “creativity” category.
• “Achieve results” – use a power verb from the “achievement” section.

Every word counts in your resume and cover letter. Don’t waste words if you don’t need to.

Equally, don't use an impressive verb if your accomplishment doesn't back it up.

Show you’ve read the job description by using action verbs

Your third priority should be this: utilize action verbs to show you are attentive and detail-sensitive. Show that you actually put in some effort when analyzing your future job. Every hiring manager wants to get a sense that you are a fit for the role. While there should hopefully be a good amount of synergy between the job description and your resume, the job description is more about responsibilities and the resume is more about achievement.

You can breach that gap by choosing the right action verbs to match.

In addition, the ATS (applicant tracking system) software is getting increasingly sophisticated at selecting the most suitable applicants, so using the most relevant action verbs will help your application to move to the top of the virtual pile. It might even give more advanced language a slight bump up the ratings.

Active vs. passive voice

In any job search, you need to be clear about what you personally accomplished and where you participated in the accomplishments of a wider team. If you are not careful, your language can create the wrong impression:

Active voice: “Completed the project in two months” (clear that you did it yourself)

Passive voice: “Project was completed in two months” (not at all clear who actually did it)

This is basic English grammar, but you would be surprised how many people get it wrong.

Hopefully you now agree that action verbs are pretty important. Let’s get amongst them:

Quantify your value when using action verbs

You can take your careful resume word choice a step further by adding some numbers into the mix. In fact, it works just as well for cover letters and interviews, too. This is a top shortcut to quantify your professional contributions with the use of numbers. Pick action verbs that you can match with statistics and numbers that illuminate your results. 

Perhaps you want to include an example about cutting costs from your department. Pick a strong action verb that's appropriate to use in this context and works with the statistic you can match it with. For instance, "Reduced department costs" could quickly turn into "Streamlined production workflow which led to surpassing team output goals by 25%".

The results of many people's jobs are not easily measured. For instance, if you work in compliance then your job is to avoid undesirable consequences. No results in an audit in your case means a job well done. Not only does that mean that your action verbs could focus on "diminishing" or "reducing", but the numbers you use to quantify your success should relate to situations you have successfully avoided.

300+ resume action verbs in 15 work situations

While the English language can be wonderfully rich, the same 20-25 action verbs dominate 95% of job search applications. I won’t list them here. You know the usual suspects. They won't impress anybody.

So, here we offer fifteen common categories of resume actions and achievements that job seekers write about, with 20 words and an example per category. We hope they are useful.

For ease of navigation, here are the 15 category links:

• “Leadership” action verbs
• “Achievement” words for resume
• “Teamwork” action words
• “Communication” action verbs
• “Project management” verbs for resume
• “People management” action verbs
• “Customer service” action words
• “Problem solving” power words
• “Improved” synonyms
• “Researched” action verbs
• “Organization” resume words
• “Creativity” action verbs
• “Worked on” power words
• “Increased” synonyms
• “Reduced” action verbs

Consider yourself a leader? Have you changed the lives of your people and put some rocket fuel under the bottom line? Would those around you see you as someone to follow until the bitter end?

Okay, well, let your accomplishments do the talking then. Have you done anything that could be prefaced with any of these leadership-oriented resume action verbs?

• Enlightened
• Orchestrated
• Recommended
• Spearheaded
• Strengthened

“Chaired a project team through a change process, trimming 5% of our cost base.”

Put yourself in the hiring manager’s position. What sort of achievement action words will make them sit up and take notice of your resume? Make sure that the verb matches the nature of the accomplishment.

Think about what would work for your industry sector and your job function.

• Accelerated
• Accomplished
• Outperformed

“Outperformed sales team in quarterly new business attraction by 67%.”

Use unique action words in the work experience section

The work experience section of your resume is the first place that a hiring manager would expect to read about accomplishments. Whether there are bullet points or full sentences, using thoughtful action words will add a different dimension to how your achievements come across. They don’t all have to be world-beaters, as that might seem a little false, but make sure that you sprinkle in enough to stand out from the crowd.

We all reckon we are good at working with others, but the true measure of a team is the results they achieve together. Which team accomplishments are you most proud of? Don't overexaggerate your role, though.

Demonstrate your qualities with the teamwork-oriented resume action verbs below:

• Contributed
• Established
• Participated
• Reorganized
• Volunteered

“Moderated a merger between two areas, with bottom line synergies of $500k.”

There are so many ways of communicating with others. Some appropriate, some maybe less so. Again, pick the action verbs that work best for your industry and occupation to empower your resume communication skill list.

Conveying your message to achieve the desired outcome is a rare skill indeed.

• Articulated
• Corresponded
• Interpreted
• Transmitted

“Briefed my team on the details of the $1.2m business continuity plan.”

Include impactful action verbs in your summary .

The first 5-6 lines at the top of a resume have the power to make or break a candidate. Our guide on how to craft an impactful summary gives me detail, but it goes without saying that you should save your most impactful and relevant couple of action verbs for this area. The hiring manager might only glance at your resume for a few seconds. What verbs really and truly sum up what you are all about? Give it some serious thought. It really matters.

When you outline a project in your resume or cover letter, it is important to button down the exact nature of your role. 

A descriptive action verb will highlight your project management abilities, check out the list here:

• Brainstormed
• Consolidated

“Executed the software rollout to twelve departments within two months.”

The resume words that you choose when describing how you achieved things with others are hugely revealing. What is your impact on those around you? What was the eact nature of the action to make your difference?

Illustrate your “people skills” with one of the evocative action verbs from this list:

• Facilitated

“Mentored four colleagues, two of whom were promoted within three years.”

Deploy emotive action words in your cover letter.

A cover letter is different from a resume. It gives a candidate far more opportunity to showcase their personality and demonstrate their culture fit, so ensure that your cover letter action words are more oriented towards provoking an emotional response in the hiring manager. If they are too formal, you risk coming across as boring (etc). Words are all you have, so make sure that they make the reader of your cover letter feel something positive about you.

I serve customers. Really? Is that all you have got? How you describe your customer service sheds a light on how you make your customers feel and whether they walk away happy.

Here’s 20 action verbs you can use in your resume to showcase your customer service experience:

• Incorporated

“Resolved a company-record 150 customer complaints a week.”

Why use six words to give more detail about a problem when one action verb will suffice. The details of the problem can come later at interview - just give a hint at the complexity involved.

Matching problem-solving action verbs with the job description is particularly important.

• Centralized
• Experimented
• Synthesized
• Troubleshot

“Rectified a list of outstanding issues that had been dormant for more than a year.”

Don’t overuse the action verbs, much as you might want to.

Having shared a blog with 300+ action verbs, it pains me to say that you should not over use them. Balance is important in job search communication, so don’t let your action verbs dominate while you are maybe not including enough numbers or industry keywords. One is enough at the start of an accomplishment, with two in a sentence at most (on rare occasions).

There are a hundred shades of improvement and each one says something slightly different about how you made the situation better. What did you change and why was your input important?

How did you really make your difference felt? Help the hiring manager understand your qualities by using accurate and vibrant action verbs from this list:

• Constructed
• Differentiated
• Restructured
• Transformed

“Ignited a fire under the management team to deliver an extra $950k sales.”

For the detail-oriented among us, we all have to research information at some point. The research-based resume action verb that you chose to describe this will show just how detail-obsessed you are.

• Scrutinized

“Scrutinized the market and doubled market share by launching a new product.”

Use impressive words, but don’t stray too far from your normal speech.

Authenticity is important in any job search, so while you should write your resume and cover letter to stand out to a hiring manager, you should be careful not to use too many words that you might not use in normal life. If you use certain resume words, but it becomes clear during an interview that your resume language is somehow inauthentic, it can cast a shadow over your application. Be yourself and try to find that happy medium.

If you are anything like me, organized is definitely not my middle name, but a couple of suitably chosen action words could make you seem like a zen master of efficiency.

It is one thing to use the "organized" action word, but make sure that the example backs it up

• Administered
• Implemented

“Implemented a new software solution that shrunk build time by 34%”

Your accomplishments are the only thing that can shine a light on your creativity. “I am a creative person” is possibly the most vomit-inducing line in any job application. Ever.  

Put a bit of effort into an alternative description - use a creativity-related action verb from this table:

• Architected
• Conceptualized
• Illustrated
• Storyboarded

“Drafted a contract that ensured a 45% gain in compliance.”

How can I optimize my use of action verbs in my job search?

• Be thoughtful in which verbs you use
• Pick action verbs that reflect your role
• Replace overused phrases such as “team player”
• Transfer your written language to an interview
• Overuse action verbs
• Be tempted to exaggerate
• Ever describe yourself as a “creative person”
• Struggle to find the right words at interview

We all understand that we go to work to get paid, but what was the nature of your work? What exactly did you do? Is it a fit for what you will be expected to do in your next role?

• Collaborated
• Coordinated
• Investigated

“Initiated a recruitment drive that hired fifteen people within three months.”

For me, this category of action verbs is the most impactful in most job applications. Your future employer wants you to make a difference to their business. But in what way?

• Capitalized
• Intensified
• Revitalized

“Revamped our social marketing strategy, delivering +25% uplift in sales.”

Equally valid is the point that some roles may require you to decrease certain things. Which words best fit your brand of elimination? Streamline your resume with great action verbs.

• Streamlined

“Minimized surgery wait times by 15 mins, increasing patient satisfaction by 25%”

Key Takeaways

Just one word can change the entire outlook on an achievement.

• Pick the right action verbs in conjunction with your accomplishments
• Mix complicated action verbs with normal ones (don't be too flashy)
• Use at the start of a bullet point for the maxmium effect
• Make sure that you use them in your interview

We are sure that you can think up hundreds of different examples for your career. The big question is which ones to use? Good luck making those tough decisions. Have a look at our resume accomplishments blog for more inspiration or read here how you create a job-winning resume . 

Resume Keywords: 80+ Verbs and Power Words to Use

By Biron Clark

Published: November 8, 2023

Biron Clark

Writer & Career Coach

The most powerful words you can put on your resume are verbs. While other job seekers are saying, “Responsible for…” you want to be saying, “Led,” “Managed,” “Grew,” etc.

In this article, we’ll look at more than 80 positive, impressive-sounding verbs and action words to use on your resume or LinkedIn.

Let’s get started…

Positive Verbs & Action Words to Use in a Resume

To start, here are some impressive, action-oriented words you can use in your resume to avoid the over-used phrase, “Responsible for…”

Always try to lead off your bullets with a verb when possible. You can also use verbs in your resume summary , bullets  and work history .

Here’s the full list of verbs to help you write a better resume:

Words for Leading People, Projects, and Tasks

• Orchestrated
• Coordinated
• Facilitated

Words for Boosting Sales/Revenue

Words for improving a process.

• Accelerated
• Re-engineered
• Reorganized
• Transformed
• Re-calibrated
• Restructured
• Strengthened
• Streamlined
• Transitioned

Words for Creating a New Process or Initiative

• Implemented
• Established
• Spearheaded

Words for Research, Analysis, and Business Decision-Making

Words for saving money or resources for the company, words to show achievements, awards, and successes.

• Recognized for
• Succeeded in
• Outperformed

What Are Good Keywords for a Resume?

Next, you’ll need to put some keywords for the specific jobs you’re applying for.

But what are good keywords to include?

The best keywords to put on your resume are words directly from the job posting. This is what the employer wants to see most (and likely what they’re looking for first – whether they’re using a software-based applicant tracking system or having a recruiter or HR person review each resume manually).

So if the job posting talks about wanting someone who has led projects in the past, make sure you’re saying “leadership” in your list of skills, and put a bullet that says “Successfully led…” in your recent work if possible.

This is known as tailoring your resume .

Try to use the same phrasing that the company uses in the job description at least once (e.g. led vs. leading vs. lead).

This isn’t always possible, and you should always write your resume for a real person first and foremost… since that’s who will be making the final decision. But try to mirror the job description when possible.

Don’t use generic buzzwords and adjectives like “hard-working”

The words listed on the job description are the best keywords and key phrases to put on your resume. Avoid buzzwords like, “hard-working” or “excellent interpersonal skills.” Employers don’t care much about this on a resume and prefer to evaluate it in an interview.

Those generic lists of resume keywords that you’ll find online are not helping. I worked for five years as a recruiter and never once decided to interview someone or recommend them for a job because of a generic phrase like that.

Employers are much more concerned about hard skills and job-related experience on a resume. They want proof you can step into the job and succeed… which is what the resume/CV word list above will help you show!

For skill-based keywords with an abbreviation, try to include the long and short version of the keyword at least once on your resume. For example, if you do business-to-business sales, you’d want to say “B2B Sales” once, and you’d want to write it out in the longer form at least once, too.

That’s just one more tip to help you beat applicant tracking systems.

Write What You Accomplished, Not What You Were Responsible For

When writing your resume and choosing what keywords and verbs to use, keep in mind that your goal should be to highlight what you accomplished… not just what you were responsible for.

Hiring managers aren’t going to be very impressed by a long list of what you were assigned to do. That’s essentially what you’re sharing if you start a bullet with “Responsible for.”

Also, try to include specific data and results when possible, especially in your bullets.

I’ll share a few examples below… by taking some of the words I recommended above and completing the sentence.

The verbs from the list above will be in bold to help you spot them below. Note that you shouldn’t write them in bold on your actual resume most likely.

Examples of How to Write Accomplishment-Driven Resume Bullets

Completed an average of 19 projects per month, bringing in $2.4MM in revenue for the company in 2019″

Audited 4 internal processes and systems related to order management, identifying an opportunity to save 1.2% on payment processing costs.

Overhauled the training program for new sales associates, resulting in 2 fewer weeks of training necessary and a 7% increase in first-month revenue generated by new sales associates in Q1 2020.

Oversaw and mentored 10 new team members per quarter, instructing them on the day-to-day work, company policies, and best practices

Conclusion: The Best Keywords and Verbs to Use in a Resume

You now have a list of powerful, effective words for writing your resume, which you should use to lead off bullet points and other sentences. This will show employers how you performed and what you accomplished in past work.

Try to avoid saying, “Responsible for,” and use the verbs from the word list above instead!

You also know how to find the best keywords for your resume – by using the job description. This is the best way to ensure that you’re not forgetting any essential skills that the employer wants.

Finally, you know NOT to put generic buzzwords like “hard working” or “fast learner”.

If you skipped to the bottom and aren’t sure about any of this, I recommend going back through the article.

Once you implement everything above, you’re going to have a much better resume that gets you more job interviews.

About the Author

Read more articles by Biron Clark

More Resume Tips & Guides

Crafting the perfect resume for teens (template & expert advice), are resume writers worth it, don’t say you’re a quick learner on your resume, what do recruiters look for in a resume, chronological resume: the best format (and how to write it), the 3 best colors for a resume, career change resume: examples and tips from experts, what makes a good resume 9 ways to know, how long should a resume be, walk me through your resume: answer examples.

500 Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume Today

Add these vibrant action verbs to your resume to stand out from the competition and increase your chances of getting more job interviews.

Customers Interviewed by:

Action verbs convey doing . You need them on your resume to describe your accomplishments. In fact, studies show that using strong action verbs on your resume can increase your chances of getting an interview by 140%!

Some action verbs are more exciting than others. Here are some examples of boring vs. exciting action verbs:

• Boring : “ Managed a team of five sales associates.”
• Exciting : “ Orchestrated a team of five sales associates to exceed monthly targets.”
• Boring : “ Handled customer inquiries and complaints.”
• Exciting : “ Navigated customer inquiries and complaints to ensure swift resolution and satisfaction.”
• Boring : “ Performed market research for product development.”
• Exciting : “ Executed comprehensive market research to drive strategic product development initiatives.”

Exciting action verbs give your resume power and direction. They make your achievements come alive and show potential employers what you can bring to the table.

To help you find the perfect action verbs when writing your resume , we’ve compiled a list of 500 action verbs that will make employers sit up and take notice.

Remember, using these words on your resume will increase your chances of getting a job interview!

PRO TIP : Try not to use the same action verb twice on your resume. This can make your document feel monotonous and diminish the impact of your accomplishments.

Action verbs for when you managed a project

• Coordinated
• Disseminated
• Established
• Facilitated
• Orchestrated
• Prioritized
• Recommended
• Reorganized
• Represented
• Revitalized
• Spearheaded
• Streamlined
• Strengthened

For additional synonyms, see The Best Synonyms for Manage and The Best Synonyms for Managed .

Action verbs for when you were creative

• Conceptualized
• Constructed
• Corresponded
• Demonstrated
• Illustrated
• Interpreted
• Interviewed
• Photographed
• Storyboarded

For additional synonyms, see The Best Synonyms for Created .

Action words for when you did office work

• Administered
• Contributed
• Distributed
• Followed up
• Implemented

Action words for when you researched

• Articulated
• Concentrated
• Experimented
• Investigated
• Systematized

Action verbs for when you helped with a project

• Co-authored
• Collaborated
• Participated
• Rehabilitated

For additional synonyms, see The Best Synonyms for Assist and The Best Synonyms for Assisted .

Action verbs for when you used technical skills

• Communicated
• Reconstructed
• Supplemented

Action words for when you used numbers

Action words for when you were the teacher.

• Individualized

How to use action verbs on your resume

Action verbs are one of the most important elements of a strong resume, but they can sometimes be tricky to use. Here are five tips for using action verbs on your resume effectively:

1. Avoid commonly used action verbs

While some action verbs pack a punch, others are so familiar to recruiters that their eyes may skim right over them. The top 10 most overused action verbs are: 

Use Jobscan’s resume optimization tool to help you replace generic, overused words with more relevant, targeted keywords.

2. Use numbers to be specific

Action verbs are a prelude to words that describe your accomplishments . You analyzed what ? You researched what ?

When describing the what of an accomplishment, always try to use numbers. Don’t just list your job duties. Numbers are a great way to be specific. They paint a clear picture of how well you did something. Here are three examples:

• Increased sales revenue by 30% through strategic marketing campaigns.
• Reduced customer wait time by 50% by implementing a new customer service queuing system.
• Streamlined inventory management processes, resulting in a 20% decrease in overhead costs.

Wondering if your resume has enough relevant numbers? Jobscan’s resume optimization tool checks and helps you measure your achievements, making sure you stand out to employers.

3. Be active, not passive

Always try to use active voice on your resume. For example, “The batter hit the ball.” Avoid writing in passive voice . For example, “The ball was hit by the batter.”

One simple way to tell if you are using active voice or passive voice on your resume is to see if your verbs contain one word or two. For example, the verb “was grown” comprises two words, meaning that it is in the passive voice. If it were in the active voice, it would have only one word, “grew.”

You can also easily check to see if your resume is using the passive voice with a free online tool called HemingwayApp . Just paste your resume into the app and it will highlight where you used passive voice. 

4. Try to use industry-specific verbs

It’s important to use language that is specific to your areas of expertise . For example, if you’re applying for a job in the financial industry, using power verbs like “invested,” “audited,” or “calculated” will impress hiring managers and show that you have the relevant skills, experience, and knowledge they are looking for.

5. Tailor your resume to get more job interviews

You must tailor each resume to the job you’re applying to if you want to get interviews. That’s because most companies today used computer software to help them in the hiring process.

This software is called an ATS, or Applicant Tracking System . It’s a database that contains all the resumes a company receives. Hiring managers search through the database by typing in keywords. These keywords are usually hard and soft skills (also known as transferable skills ).

Just like websites need to be optimized for Google, your resume needs to be optimized for the ATS.

The way you optimize your resume is by adding specific job-related keywords to it. Where do you find these resume keywords ? In the description of the job you’re applying to.

To speed up the process use an online tool like Jobscan’s resume scanner . Paste your resume and the job description into the scanner. You’ll then receive a resume score that tells you how closely your resume matches the job description. The higher the score the more likely you are to get an interview.

Here’s an example of a match report:

In the above example, the keyword “answering phones” is an important requirement for the job but is missing from the applicant’s resume. By adding this keyword, the match score will increase.

Try Jobscan’s resume scanner for free below…

Action verbs describe doing . Examples of action verbs include “run,” “jump,” “think,” and “read.” A variety of action verbs can really spice up your resume and make it more interesting to read. The best place to use action verbs when you build your resume is in your work experience section . Start off your resume bullet points with action verbs. You can also use action verbs on your resume summary . Try not to use the same action verb twice on your resume. Check out our library of resume examples to see the best way to use action verbs.

Action verbs grab and hold the reader’s attention. They paint a clear and convincing picture of your accomplishments. They also convey a sense of enthusiasm and energy. Studies show that using action words on your resume increases the chance of getting an interview by 140%.

A list of action verbs for students includes organized, coordinated, led, collaborated, contributed, participated, volunteered, initiated, assisted, conducted, presented, created, designed, developed, implemented, researched, analyzed, evaluated, communicated, adapted, demonstrated, managed, facilitated, supported, mentored.

Here are 50 popular action verbs: achieved, adapted, analyzed, assisted, built, collaborated, communicated, completed, conducted, created, designed, developed, directed, earned, established, executed, facilitated, generated, implemented, improved, innovated, led, maintained, managed, mentored, negotiated, organized, oversaw, participated, performed, presented, prioritized, produced, promoted, provided, resolved, reviewed, solved, streamlined, supported, supervised, taught, trained, updated, utilized, verified, volunteered, wrote, adapted, served.

Avoid overused action verbs like managed, led, created, implemented, improved, achieved, developed, resolved, planned, and assisted on your resume and cover letter.

Robert Henderson, CPRW, is a career advice writer and a resume expert at Jobscan.

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Dive Into Expert Guides to Enhance your Resume

Top 360 Resume Action Words: Power Words for Your Resume

One of the best ways to ensure your resume stands head and shoulders above the rest is through the  strategic use of action words . These aren’t just fancy adjectives or buzzwords, but dynamic, action-oriented terms that can truly highlight your skills and experiences.

In this article, you’ll  learn about :

• How to use power words in your resume
• Which words to avoid on your resume
• A whopping selection of 360 power words!

Turn your application into a compelling narrative by using resume action words.

Let’s start!

What Are Action Words?

Action words, also  known as action verbs, power words, or power adjectives , are the superheroes of your resume. If you’re wondering how to turn your experiences into a compelling professional narrative, this is where action words swoop in to save the day.

These adjectives and verbs are used to  describe an action, result, or accomplishment . They illustrate your  proactive attitude  and potential, helping you move beyond the standard buzzwords that are all too common in resumes, and ultimately helping you catch a recruiter’s eye.

Now, let’s delve into how you can add these power-packed action words to your resume and make a stellar first impression with recruiters.

Why Choosing the Right Words Makes a Difference

The words you use on your resume can make a significant difference in how you are perceived by potential employers. By using power words in your resume, you can present your achievements more compellingly.

Take a close  look at these examples :

Managed a team of sales representatives.

The verb manage is often considered an overused word in resumes because it is a generic and vague term that lacks specificity and impact.

Many candidates use manage as a catch-all phrase to describe their responsibilities without elaborating on the details or displaying their achievements.

Orchestrated and led a top-performing sales team in exceeding targets by 150% in Q2.

This example demonstrates  leadership , initiative, and success by providing  concrete details about the achievements . It features the candidate’s ability to drive results and emphasizes their competence, making them a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

By simply using more descriptive language, you can bring life to seemingly mundane tasks and paint a picture of your capabilities, qualifications, and achievements.

Not only do power words make your resume more interesting to read, but they also  leave a lasting impression  and demonstrate a level of sophistication and professionalism.

Your ability to communicate effectively through your language choices showcases your writing skills and overall attention to detail.

How to Use Action Words

When it comes to crafting a standout resume, the words you choose are paramount. However, not all words are created equal. It’s essential to use power words that are  specific to the position you’re applying for , and that demonstrate your capabilities and experience.

One way to determine which power words to use is by carefully examining the job posting and identifying key responsibilities and requirements. Once you’ve done that, you can select power words from our comprehensive list that align with your achievements and expertise.

It’s best to choose  words that can be measured by tangible achievements , such as “ optimized  sales revenue by 40%.” Avoid using subjective language like “I’m outstanding” or “I’m exceptional,” as this can make you come across as self-involved.

Instead, use precise and actionable language that features your skills and accomplishments.

In a revealing study by  Gitnux , it was found that  75% of resumes are rejected by Applicant Tracking Systems  (ATS) because they lack the right format, content, or action words. Ensure you review the job ad before crafting your resume and include the power words you find there.

Active vs. Passive Voice

Another vital aspect to bear in mind is the  preference for active voice over passive voice . But what exactly does this mean? It primarily involves the way you use verbs.

In an  active voice  sentence, the subject – you – performs the action. Conversely, in a passive-voice sentence, the subject is on the receiving end of the action.

Not only can passive sentences be more confusing but they also tend to be longer. Let’s illustrate this with an example:

• Active voice: I submitted the resume.
• Passive voice: The resume was submitted by me.

The difference is clear – active sentences get right to the point and put you right at the center of the action.

Words to Avoid in Your Resume

Avoiding clichés and overused phrases on your resume can help make it more convincing and unique.

Here are some  commonly overused words  and phrases that you’ll want to avoid and replace with more specific and illustrative language:

• Detail Oriented
• Hard worker
• In charge of
• Problem-Solver
• Outside the box
• Responsible for
• Results-driven
• Self-Starter
• Specialized in
• Strategic thinker
• Team Player

Power Up Your Resume: 360 Action Words to Use

Looking for a job involves crafting a resume that not only recounts your achievements but does so in a vibrant and compelling manner. To assist you with this, we’ve compiled a resume  action word list of 360 items .

When adding them to your resume, you can typically omit the “I” at the beginning of each statement, leading to punchier, more concise sentences like:

“Acquired 37 new clients within a six-month timeframe” or “Administered medication to a ward of 20 patients.”

This approach not only saves space but also makes your resume more scan-friendly.

To simplify your word selection process, you’ll find them  grouped in thematic categories , such as leadership,  teamwork , and numeric-based accomplishments, to name a few.

Note that some words could be relevant to more than one category.

Does this mean you should use all 360 words in your resume? Certainly not!

However, this extensive selection ensures that you have a diverse array of choices to best illustrate your unique achievements and talents.

If any of the following power verbs are unfamiliar, look them up in a  dictionary  before using them in your resume. Misusing a word will hurt your credibility. In fact, using a word in the wrong context could do more harm than simply supplying one of the overused words listed above.

Lastly, don’t forget to  look at the job ad  and include the keywords you find there in your resume and cover letter. By doing this, you’ll avoid being automatically disqualified by  Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) .

Resume Power Words for Leadership

Companies want to hire good leaders, especially for management positions. Instead of listing leadership as a skill or simply saying you’re an experienced leader, show them with resume power words!

You’ll notice that each of the words below requires a bit more information than does listing leadership as a skill. For example, what goals did you reach as a leader? What exactly did you manage?

Don’t just tell,  show how  with specific examples. Now, take a look at the following list of resume action words to effectively highlight your skills and experiences.

• Administered

Example: Advised  clients on investment opportunities and market trends, resulting in a 25% increase in portfolio returns and a 20% increase in client satisfaction ratings.

• Coordinated
• Facilitated

Example: Influenced  company decision-making through data analysis and presentation, resulting in a 10% decrease in expenses.

• Orchestrated

Example: Resolved  customer complaints in a timely and professional manner, resulting in a 95% satisfaction rate.

Resume Power Words for Teamwork

Being able to work as part of a group, getting along well with your coworkers, is important in a professional context. This is especially true in industries where collaborative projects are the norm.

Rather than just stating that you’re a team player, show it!  Provide specific examples  of how you rallied your group to success or played well with others despite challenges.

Look at the action verbs list below and pick the ones that best apply to your experience and the position you want to apply for:

• Acknowledged
• Assimilated
• Collaborated

Example: Collaborated  with colleagues to streamline internal processes and enhance productivity, leading to a 20% reduction in project turnaround time.

• Contributed
• Diversified
• Participated
• Volunteered

Resume Power Words for Communication

Written and verbal communication skills are  vital to many industries . You’ll notice that some of the words, such as “authored” and “corresponded” are more specific to written communication, while others imply active interaction with colleagues, vendors, and clients.

Review the following action verbs to use on your resume:

• Co-authored

Example: Convinced  a key client to renew their contract by demonstrating the value and ROI of our services, resulting in a revenue increase of $500,000.

• Corresponded
• Demonstrated
• Illustrated

Example: Promoted  company products and services through effective marketing campaigns, resulting in a 30% increase in customer acquisition and a 20% boost in revenue.

• Transcribed

Resume Power Words for Achievement

Have you ever worked on a project from its inception to its completion? That’s quite an accomplishment. Were you the mastermind behind it?

If so, you should let the hiring manager in on all the details. Use the words below to explain.

Remember, though, that one action word per sentence is usually enough.

• Constructed

Example: Created  a new company-wide training program, resulting in a 25% increase in employee productivity.

• Established
• Implemented

Example: Implemented  a new inventory tracking system, resulting in a 20% decrease in product waste.

• Incorporated

Example: Launched  a successful social media campaign, resulting in a 30% increase in brand awareness.

• Put together
• Spearheaded

Resume Power Words to Replace “Responsible For”

Your job has no doubt involved a lot of diverse responsibilities. But if you write “responsible for” under every position you’ve held, your resume will sound redundant and boring.

Try including some of the words listed below. Be sure to include the details.For example, what techniques did you employ? What goals did you achieve?

Pick the action words to use on your resume from this list:

• Accomplished

Example: Achieved  a 25% increase in sales within the first quarter of employment.

Resume Power Words for Research

Knowing how to find reliable information is almost as important as knowing how to do your job. Research is a highly  sought-after skill  in the workplace.

However, there are multiple ways to do research. Did your research involve scientific experimentation? Reading reference books? Conducting surveys? Interviewing famous people?

Using the powerful descriptive words below will help recruiters understand the exact details of your experience.

Example: Analyzed market trends and made recommendations for product development, resulting in a 30% increase in market share.

• Cross-examined
• Experimented
• Fact-checked
• Interpreted
• Investigated

Example: Developed  and implemented key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of marketing campaigns, resulting in a 20% increase in conversion rates and a 15% reduction in customer acquisition costs.

• Scrutinized

Resume Power Words to Replace “Helped”

Hiring managers know  good workplace environments  are made of individuals who are willing to assist each other.

Let them know you’re that kind of person with one of the following power words.

Don’t forget to briefly explain how you helped and the good results that followed.

• Accompanied

Example: Consulted  with cross-functional teams, leveraging expertise in data analytics and market trends to develop strategic initiatives that resulted in a 20% increase in customer retention.

Resume Power Words for Improvement and Efficiency

Make sure that the words you choose  highlight your accomplishments  and do not refer to negative consequences.

• Accelerated

Example: Boosted website traffic by 50% through the implementation of a new content marketing strategy that focused on SEO optimization and targeted audience engagement.

• Capitalized
• Centralized
• Consolidated

Example: Improved  customer retention rates by 15% through implementation of new policies and procedures.

• Intensified
• Outperformed
• Rehabilitated
• Reorganized
• Restructured

Example: Revamped  the company’s social media strategy by creating engaging content, resulting in a 75% increase in social media engagement and a 50% increase in lead generation.

• Revitalized
• Standardized
• Streamlined
• Strengthened
• Transformed

Resume Power Words to Use With Exact Numbers

Be specific by mentioning numbers and percentages to describe your experience.

Look at the following right-wrong examples to understand the difference:

Utilized advertising techniques to attract many new clients.

This is the example content

Notice the difference? While the wrong example leaves many questions open and lacks punch, the right example tells recruiters the complete story by providing specifics.

Below, you’ll find keywords to describe numerical figures.

• Dollars saved
• Revenue increased by…
• Raised revenue by…

Example: Raised revenue by 25% by implementing a new pricing strategy and conducting a comprehensive market analysis to identify new opportunities.

• Time reduced
• Cut costs by…
• Reduced expenses by…

Only provide statistics and figures if you are authorized to do so. Most employers won’t mind if you say you increased their sales or reduced their expenses by a certain amount. But they may not want to reveal their annual gross income or specifics about prices and costs. Never include confidential or proprietary information in your resume.

Adjectives to Replace “Hard Worker”

You work hard at what you do, and you want to let the hiring manager know about it.

But instead of describing yourself as a “hard worker,”  try   the following adjectives  for added effect.

• Disciplined
• Enthusiastic

Example: Created and implemented a meticulous quality control process that significantly reduced product defects by 50% within the first six months of implementation.

More Resume Power Words

Consider these additional action adjectives related to innovative thinking and integrity to make a positive impact on employers.

• Cutting edge

Example: Devoted significant time and effort to building and nurturing strong client relationships, resulting in a client retention rate of 95% and increased referrals.

• Professional

Making a strong impression through your resume requires the tactical deployment of power words. Here is a  quick recap  of how to do it:

• Start by closely examining the job description.
• Pinpoint the main skills and responsibilities the potential employer is looking for.
• Select action words that are related to your experience and attributes.
• Remember to only use one power word per sentence.
• Place more emphasis on using power verbs instead of power adjectives, as actions speak louder than words!
• Avoid passive voice.

Ready to update your resume to include action words? Try our  resume builder  to speed up the process. It is full of expert advice and on-the-go tips designed to get you the job you’re looking for.

Struggling with Resume Writing?

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Related Blog

125 Easy Resume Action Verbs to Make Your Resume Better

In This Guide:

What are resume action verbs, why is it important to know which words to use in a resume, how to use action verbs on your resume, where to include action verbs on a resume, worst buzzwords and their best action word alternatives for a resume, action verbs on your resume with enhancv, conclusion: resume action verbs.

Quick Answer: "Resume action verbs strengthen your resume by emphasizing skills and achievements. Avoid buzzwords like ""detail-oriented"" and ""team player."" Use impactful action verbs like ""amplified,"" ""collaborated,"" and ""analyzed."" Incorporate them in the resume summary, work experience, skills, and achievements. Enhancv's examples can help you create a unique resume."

Let’s be honest – you probably didn’t think much about your resume wording when writing it. The whole thought of adding action verbs for resumes might’ve just slipped out your mind.

That’s normal, it happens quite often.

But, now that you’re aware of it you need to change your approach.

You might be surprised with what just a few resume action verbs and resume power words can do for your entire application.

Now, when I say power words , the ones that pop up in your head are probably phrases like:

• “Detail-oriented”
• “Team player”
• “Hard worker”

Please stop.

First of all, these are called buzzwords . They don’t have their place in this article.

Second, we’re here to talk about resume action verbs. These are active words you can use to boost your resume and make it that much more powerful.

Action verbs and buzzwords are a slippery slope.

If you overuse or misuse them, you risk making the recruiter’s eyes roll all the way back into their head.

That’s where we come in. In this guide, we’ll be going through all you need to know about action verbs for resumes.

Sit back and let’s get you on the right track because you’re about to learn:

• What action verbs are and why they matter;
• How to use action words on your resume;
• Which buzzwords to avoid and which words to use instead

If you want to skip ahead and see proven resume templates that got a fellow candidate like Akshay hired at Tesla, we’ve got you covered. You can see how other candidates choose their wording by clicking below so you can take inspiration for your own resume!

BROWSE RESUME EXAMPLES

“In today’s competitive world, you have to present yourself in a unique way to stand out. Try Enhancv – I am glad to have discovered it, it has helped me get to Tesla!” – Akshay Rao

Now back to the matter at hand – action words for resumes. I’m excited, aren’t you? Let’s get right to it!

Resume action verbs are also referred to as action words or power words. These are verbs you can use throughout your resume to describe and strengthen your skills, achievements, and experience.

For the record, they don’t just blatantly describe your work.

They emphasize everything that makes you the best candidate for the job by showcasing your skills. Overall, it makes your resume stronger and more compelling.

The big reward of using the right action verbs (and avoiding the wrong and overused ones) can mean instantly catching the recruiter’s eye. On top of that, it makes you look even more impressive, potentially landing you the job.

So, you might want to start thinking about your resume wording and adding some strong resume action verbs to boost your chances.

Keep in mind that hiring managers go through a mountain of resumes when deciding who to bring on board.

To be precise, they spend exactly 7.4 seconds on each resume on average.

We understand it’s not a lot of time to grab someone’s attention.

And, that’s why it’s important to be using the best, most unique, and most powerful resume words. This makes your resume stand apart from the crowd immediately and increases the probability of you getting your dream job.

All because of a few action verbs.

Those resume action verbs can amplify the impact behind your skills and qualifications.

While things like your GPA are important, the hiring manager cares more about the results you may have been responsible for. If more job seekers were to use unique action verbs in a section of a resume, you’re more likely to leave a strong impression.

If done correctly, a single keyword or power word used to describe your capability (e.g. your soft skills and hard skills) can change the whole game. Whether you’re a high school teen or a war veteran, using resume power words will improve your overall application.

Now, it’s true that power verbs and resume words can make you seem more impressive.

However, that doesn’t mean you should lie . Don’t make it look like you’ve moved mountains unless you’ve actually, you know, moved mountains .

At the same time, don’t undermine your achievements either. Now is the time to impress and show off your skills, so don’t be too modest.

That’s why knowing which action verbs for resumes to use is crucial. Not understanding their effect is the difference between looking incredible and plain or mediocre.

Or worse, cocky and dishonest .

The moment some of you have been waiting for.

It’s time to learn how to use resume action verbs properly, including what not to do when using them.

You can probably already guess it with everything discussed so far:

Not all resume action words are equal.

We’ve prepared a list of the best words to use on a resume, as well as the ones you need to avoid like a plague. But, we’ll get onto that more later.

First, here are a few tips on using action verbs:

• Don’t trust overused action words.
• Be specific about your achievements and results.
• Steer clear of passive voice.

Let’s go into a little more detail.

Avoid overused action verbs altogether

You wouldn’t want your resume to look and read like everyone else. So, why would you use the same generic words that everyone is using?

Some action verbs are as cookie-cutter and boring as you can get.

Recruiters have seen them so much that they’re basically white noise to them now. And, that’s no good.

Take a note of these words below and be sure to run away from them as far as possible.

Some of the most overused action words for resumes are:

• Took part in;
• Participated;

Don’t bore the hiring managers . Instead, try to wow them. Keep them engaged, keep them wanting more.

Use numbers and results that go alongside your resume power words

You need to be as specific as possible to really show what you can do and how you can help the company.

Recruiters don’t like it when you’re vague.

They do, however, love specifics and quantifiable data. So, choose your words wisely and reinforce them by including exact numbers and results.

Let’s compare and take a look at the examples below:

• “Increased monthly blog visits”.
• “Magnified monthly blog visits from 100,000 to 2 million in a year”.

While it’s easy to say “increased” and it gets the message across, everyone does. Look for a stronger action verb. And be specific about your results.

Numbers and results are especially important when it comes to your work experience section .

Use active voice in your bullet points

You might already be aware of this but, your resume format plays a big part in your application.

If you’re using passive voice when listing your accomplishments, it diminishes all the work you’ve put in to achieve a result.

Instead, you’re focusing on something other than the fact that you made it happen.

In other words, you’re not showing the employers how you’ve used your skills to make an impact. This puts a blind eye on your potential and prevents them from seeing what you’re capable of.

The solution?

Start using the active voice and always start with an action verb. That way, you’ll make the most impact.

There are a few key sections where you should include resume power words. This includes:

Resume summary

Under your work experience.

• In a separate skill section
• Using Enhancv’s staple sections

Let’s look at this in more detail.

Looking to make a strong first impression the moment the hiring manager picks up your resume?

Then, starting every sentence of your resume summary by using an action verb. It’s a great way to make an impact right from the start. Alternatively, if you’re using this space to talk about your resume objective , action verbs work just as effectively.

This is your professional experience section, the part where you talk about your professional background and achievements.

When going into detail about the job description here, you must absolutely include action words.

Action verbs on resumes are important, but it needs to be included especially under the work experience and certification section. When you do this, it amplifies how you’ve made an impact and shows how you were responsible for a positive outcome.

Use bullet lists to list down your accomplishments at each job you’ve had too. After applying this on your resume, employers will see how you stand out from the sea of candidates.

Under your work experience or certifications section as you’re describing how you’ve made an impact and how you were responsible for a positive outcome, you need to be using action verbs

Separate skill section

The hiring manager wants to see how beneficial your capabilities are for the company.

So, when you’re listing your skills separately, it’s a good time to include some powerful resume action verbs to show recruiters how much of an asset you are.

However, don’t just limit the use of resume action verbs for these specific sections of your resume. If you have additional experiences, e.g. volunteer experience, be sure to talk about the types of skills you’ve developed. When you do this, don’t forget about integrating those power words mentioned.

Enhancv’s staple sections

If you’re looking to create a compelling resume that stands out, Enhancv uses custom resume sections to ensure you’re unique from everyone else. Custom resume sections such as:

• Most proud of

(We’ll look at this in more detail when looking at how Enhancv can help you use the right action verbs for your resume!)

It’s time to talk about what we mentioned at the start of this article – buzzwords .

Knowing how to use resume buzzwords is just as important as using the right action verbs. While there are some words you should definitely try and use such as:

The only problem with this is that they’re quite generic.

There are a plethora of buzzwords that will do you more harm than good. So, to make sure you don’t run into the same problem, here is a list of resume power words you should be using and ones to remove from your dictionary.

Resume Action Verbs for Leadership and Management

Worst offender: Strategic thinker

If you’re not thinking strategically, then you’re not really contributing, are you?

Strategic thinking is a given. It’s obvious, there’s absolutely no point in adding that word to your resume.

What to use instead:

Action verbs:

• Implemented
• Revitalized

Resume Action Verbs for Teamwork

Worst offenders: Team player; Go-To Person

Oh boy, the number of times I’ve put “team player” on my resume! As I’m sure hundreds of thousands have done, too.

Why would you need to say that you’re a team player?

Of course you are! Without teamwork, nothing would ever get done.

Think about the poor recruiters when writing your resume. Don’t use unnecessary buzzwords like these – think of a better way to describe yourself and your skills. Most importantly, you need to be showing them !

And, don’t get me started on being the “go-to person”. If you weren’t the go-to person for the job posting to begin with, then why would you get hired in the first place?

• Collaborative
• Cooperative
• Relied upon
• Co-authored
• Collaborated
• Contributed
• Participated

Resume Action Verbs for Achievements

Worst offenders: Go-Getter; Bottom line; Result-Driven

“Go-getter” might be a term you’ve heard around, but it means absolutely nothing on your resume. The same goes for “bottom line” and “result-driven”.

Why waste valuable space on your resume telling the recruiters something that they’ve heard thousands of times before and, even worse, not backing it up in any way?

Instead of boring the hiring managers out of their minds and telling them nothing, try to prove to them the value you’ll bring. There are way too many words to describe achievements out there, depending on the achievement itself. I’ll list some of the best below.

• Accelerated
• Consolidated
• Established
• Outperformed
• Streamlined

Resume Action Verbs for Research, Analysis, and Planning

Worst offender: Detail-Oriented; Hard Worker

Let’s be real – if you’re not detail-oriented, you probably won’t do a great job. The same goes for “hard worker”.

Both of these qualities should be obvious from your accomplishments and skills, not the fact that you’ve written some words on your resume.

• Comprehensive
• Investigated

Resume Action Words to Showcase your Creativity

Worst offender: Think outside of the box

If you choose to describe your creativity by saying you “think outside the box”, then… that’s not very creative of you.

If you genuinely are as creative as you’re trying to say, then you’ll surely be able to come up with a more, well, creative way to demonstrate it, right?

• Unconventional
• Imaginative
• Resourceful
• Brainstormed
• Conceptualized
• Constructed
• Illustrated
• Storyboarded
• Transformed

Let’s go into a bit more detail with the staple resume sections mentioned earlier.

First, click here for proven resume examples and type in the job position you’re looking to apply for:

In our example, we’ll use an entry-level resume. So, simply click on your link and it’ll take you to a page that looks like this:

This page also has a full guide below for how to create a resume for your specific job position.

Once you’ve made it here, simply click on the “use this example” button and you’ll be taken inside the Enhancv app. At this stage, it’s where the fun begins:

When you can use a proven example for your specific job resume like this, the entire resume-building process becomes much easier. You won’t get stuck with writer’s block either because you can get ideas with what’s already written.

On this entry-level resume example, the staple resume section of “strengths” would stand out because it’s so different from what employers are used to seeing.

Looking at the achievements sections, you’ll also notice the resume action verb “anchored”.

It’s unique, and the resume is designed to make an impact on your hiring manager by highlighting the results you were responsible for.

When you have a cheat code like this, creating a resume won’t be difficult anymore.

Best of all, Enhancv’s resume builder is free. So, you can test how good it is yourself at no cost.

The hiring managers won’t be ready for what you’ve got in store for them. What are you waiting for? Start building your resume now by clicking below!

BUILD A RESUME NOW

“Enhancv has made modern professional resume writing a breeze! Beautiful templates, that has helped visualize years of work experience into a single page.” – Victoria Odonnell

I hope this detailed look at action verbs for resumes inspired you to go and write the best resume the world has ever seen!

Here’s a summary of everything we’ve been through:

• Action verbs can make your resume stand out and emphasize your skills and achievements.
• Steer clear of overused action verbs and buzzwords to avoid blending into the crowd and boring the recruiters.
• Always write your resume in the active voice.
• Support your action verbs with quantifiable data.
• Use action words in key sections of your resume, such as the summary, the job description, and the skills section.

If you found this article useful or you have any questions, be sure to give it a share, and feel free to leave a comment below!

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Are you looking for impactful resume action words and power verbs?

Correctly using relevant action words and power verbs can put you light years ahead in your job search.

If you write your experiences in the resume like the following, you need to read this guide:

• 'I am an excellent team player...'
• 'I was responsible for managing...'

Instead of these generic words, you must use resume power verbs to make your resume all the more compelling.

Resume power verbs are words that help grab the reader's attention by clearly communicating your skills and experience. It also improves the wattage of your bullet points and improves readability.

Our 2023 Guide to Resume Words, focusing on Action Verbs Examples, will provide a detailed roadmap to shift your resume from 'oh well' to 'wow.'

You will get clarity on the following FAQs related to resume action words and power verbs:

• What are power verbs or resume action words?
• Why action verbs are important for a resume?
• How to use action verbs on a resume?
• What are some resume power adjectives?
• 250+ example of power verbs in resume

What are Power Verbs or Resume Action Words?

Power verbs are action-based verbs with strong meaning in the English language compared to other verbs. If you use action words in a sentence, you become strong and confident.

In contrast, most resume bullet points start with the same words:

• "Responsible"
• "Managed"
• "Held," etc.

These words are used so much that it has lost their meaning for the recruiters. So, to grab the recruiter's attention, it's important to use resume power verbs in the bullet points.

Also Read: How many bullet points should you add to your resume in 2023?

Why are Action Verbs Important for a Resume?

Action verbs are important because they help you communicate your strengths and experiences to the recruiter in a strong voice.

Let's see two examples:

Which one do you think is the most effective?

Both the bullet points mean the same thing, but the first one is more impactful to the recruiters,

Given below are two examples of how to use action words on a resume:

Also Read: How to create a compelling work experience section in your resume?

How to Use Action Verbs on a Resume?

A good resume is much more than a list of jobs with corresponding dates – it's a marketing document to show off your strengths and get you the job.

One of the most important elements of your resume is the action verbs (words that describe actions) you use. Action verbs make up your experience description; each should be relevant, concise, and targeted to a specific job.

1. Which Power Words Should You Use?

When using power verbs in your resume, it is important to choose measurable and relevant words for the job. This way, you can pair the power verb with a tangible achievement, for example, enhanced marketing ROI by 35%.

Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Read the job description carefully, and identify the key responsibilities for the job
• Determine which skills of yours match the job description
• Look at power verbs to highlight these achievements in the resume

Also Read: What are some good resume synonyms for the word "teach"?

2. How Often Should You Use Power Words?

If you overdo the action verbs, then they will lose their value. The hiring manager might also think that you're trying too hard.

A general rule of thumb is to not use the same power verb in one "Work Experience" section twice.

3. Avoid Generic Resume Words

Generic action verbs are common on resumes. They don't make much of an impact. Instead, choose resume words representing a quantifiable achievement that is powerful, and dynamic, and show the employer how much of an impact you had on your previous company.

Also Read: How to say "innovative" in different ways on your professional documents?

4. Use Fresh Resume Action Verbs

Resumes are boring. You're not going to hook an employer with your vanilla resume and piles of text. That's why it's important to include the right words in your resume to make yourself stand out from the pack.

36 Fresh Resume Action Verbs Example

5. Avoid Passive Voice in Resume

We often unconsciously use the passive voice in resume writing, which can be difficult to detect. One simple way to tell the difference is to look at your verbs in the active voice. For example: If the verb in your sentence comprises two words ("was developed") or contains "to be" verbs such as "is," "are," and "were" (e.g., "were developed"), then you know the passive voice is at work.

By changing the passive voices to active voices, you will improve the readability of your resume.

Also Read: What skills should you include in your resume in 2023?

Kickass Resume Action Verbs to Replace Commonly Used Words

Strong resume words for 'planning' or 'strategic planning.'.

Additionally, check out this great resource for more action verbs around 'Strategic Planning'

Also Read: 10+ Strategic synonyms that will elevate your reusme

Good Resume Words for 'Managing.'

Also Read: 10+ Synthesize synonyms

Strong Resume Words for 'Organizing.'

Also Read: Synonyms for the word "build" that you can use in resumes and cover letters

Good Resume Words for 'Supervising' or 'Leadership.'

Also Read: 10 unique ways to say "teamwork" on a resume

Strong Resume Words for 'Executing' or 'Worked on' or 'Handled.'

Also Read: "Contribute" synonyms

Good Resume Words for 'Communication.'

Also Read: 10+ Synonyms for "motivate"

Strong Resume Words for 'Helping.'

Good Resume Words for 'Creativity' or 'Problem Solving.'

Strong Resume Words for 'Responsible for' or 'Getting Results'

Good Resume Words for 'Team Player'

Also Read: Which keywords should you use in your resume in 2023?

Resume Buzzwords: 2023 List of Resume Verbs to Include and Avoid

Also Read: How to write a stellar resume in 2023?

What are Some Resume Power Adjectives?

Power adjectives are a more sophisticated way of listing your achievements and skills when compared with power verbs because, unlike power verbs, you can use power adjectives beyond describing Professional Experience.

This section will show you how to use power adjectives effectively in different resume sections.

Use Power Adjectives in Resume Summary

A resume summary is the first paragraph the recruiter sees in your resume. It’s used to grab the recruiter’s attention to read the whole resume.

And power adjectives can help you do that if you effectively add them to the resume summary.

• Certified Cybersecurity professional with 4+ years of extensive experience adept at providing meticulous leadership and network infrastructure support by ensuring all systems and databases are up-to-date.
• Certified Cybersecurity professional with 4+ years of experience adept at providing network infrastructure support by ensuring all systems and databases are up-to-date.

Power Adjective in Professional Experience Section

The professional experience section is the heart of the resume. And using power adjectives in a resume can help you hold the recruiter’s attention.

Also Read: What are some great examples of resume summaries for various job profiles?

Best Power Adjective for Resume

Given below are some power verbs which are categorized based on different soft skills:

Power Adjective for Creativity

Power Adjective for Productivity

Power Adjective for Dedication

Power Adjective for Hard Work

Power Adjective for Organization Skills

Also Read: How to use resume buzzwords the right way?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 20 resume power words.

What are Some Resume Buzz Words 2023 to Leave Off Your Resume?

You need to ensure that you’re not using popular Resume Buzz Words 2023 on your resume.

The resume already has limited space. So choose your words carefully to maximize the impact on recruiters.

Here are some Buzz Words 2023 to Leave Off Your Resume:

• Hard-working
• Responsible
• Team Player
• Result-driven
• Specialized
• Problem-solving

Why Do We Need to Add Power Verbs in a Resume?

When applying for a job, a candidate needs to appear confident and competent, so using power verbs helps you communicate your message more powerfully, confidently, and convincingly.

How to choose power verbs? Choose a power verb that describes your work most accurately. The aim is to convey what you’ve done in your previous jobs that led to measurable results.

Also Read: What are some of the best jobs for retired people?

Key Takeaways

To recap everything that we discussed till now:

• Action verbs for resume are different from resume keywords. The latter pertains to professional job skills which the recruiter is looking for. The former helps to realign your resume from responsibility-based to achievement-based.
• Simply stuffing your resume with action verbs will do you no good. It's always better to validate everything you say with quantifiable instances and achievements.
• If everyone's special, no one's special. Resume buzzwords come and go with each passing season, and it's critical to be aware of the trend. Our section on the 2023 Guide to Resume Keywords will give you an idea of which ones to use and which ones to avoid.
• Use our extensive compendium of action verbs for resume grouped by resume skills to revamp your resume!

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200 Resumé Words That Make Your Resumé Stand Out

4 Min Read | May 17, 2024

Just 7.4 seconds: That’s how much time you have to grab a recruiter’s attention when they read your resumé for the first time. 1 That’s it! So, if you’re looking for a new job, I have a helpful hint: To grab a hiring manager’s attention, make your resumé stand out using powerful resumé words. Hear me out on this—the chances of landing your dream job get a whole lot higher when you communicate your work experience with descriptive and confident resumé words because they help you stand out from the competition.

Resumé power words are strong, actionable and confident verbs and adjectives that describe your abilities and accomplishments. And they can make you stand out in a pool of other job seekers (without any changes to your actual work experience).

Words to Use in a Resumé

Words matter! And with the right word choice, you can give your resumé a big boost of style and confidence. Here are the top 200 resumé power words that will communicate your skills, abilities and talents and help you stand out to a hiring manager.

Resumé Power Words for Leadership

•  Enforced
•  Executed
•  Facilitated
•  Fostered
•  Founded
•  Guided
•  Headed
•  Instructed
•  Mentored
•  Moderated
•  Motivated
•  Orchestrated
•  Overhauled
•  Presided
•  Spearheaded
•  Steered
•  Supervised
•  Trained

Resumé Power Words for Collaborate

•  Aligned
•  Associated
•  Combined
•  Contributed
•  Cooperated
•  Joined
•  Integrated
•  Linked
•  Merged
•  Pooled
•  Synchronized
•  United

Resumé Power Words for Responsible For

•  Achieved
•  Accomplished
•  Assembled
•  Concluded
•  Coordinated
•  Devised
•  Effected
•  Fulfilled
•  Gathered
•  Handled
•  Produced
•  Prompted
•  Solved

Resumé Power Words for Communication

•  Advertised
•  Authored
•  Broadcast
•  Circulated
•  Distributed
•  Championed
•  Clarified
•  Consulted
•  Conveyed
•  Defined
•  Diagramed
•  Documented
•  Drafted
•  Endorsed
•  Illustrated
•  Influenced
•  Informed
•  Liaison
•  Negotiated
•  Networked
•  Notated
•  Persuaded
•  Presented
•  Promoted
•  Publicized
•  Published
•  Recommended
•  Recorded
•  Storyboarded
•  Translated

Resumé Power Words for Achieved

•  Administered
•  Arranged
•  Attained
•  Captured
•  Completed
•  Converted
•  Delivered
•  Earned
•  Enacted
•  Established
•  Lifted
•  Performed
•  Predicted
•  Procured
•  Proved
•  Secured
•  Strategized
•  Trailblazed
•  Yielded

Resumé Power Words for Worked On

•  Applied
•  Attended
•  Dedicated
•  Endeavored
•  Forecasted
•  Formulated
•  Implemented
•  Masterminded
•  Operated
•  Pursued
•  Processed
•  Rendered
•  Strove
•  Troubleshot
•  Undertook
•  Visualized
•  Volunteered

Resumé Power Words for Improved

•  Accelerated
•  Advanced
•  Boosted
•  Discerned
•  Enhanced
•  Expanded
•  Familiarized
•  Increased
•  Maximized
•  Outpaced
•  Perfected
•  Redesigned
•  Refined
•  Reformed
•  Renovated
•  Resolved
•  Restructured
•  Revamped
•  Revitalized
•  Simplified
•  Skyrocketed
•  Streamlined
•  Strengthened
•  Transformed
•  Upgraded

Resumé Power Words for Researched

• Investigated

Resumé Power Words for Created

• Constructed
• Established
• Kick-started

Resumé Power Words for Managed

•  Controlled
•  Designated
•  Directed
•  Employed
•  Governed
•  Mastered
•  Organized
•  Oversaw
•  Planned
•  Programmed
•  Ruled

What Words NOT to Use in a Resumé

When you’re updating your resumé (or creating a brand-new one), it’s best to stay away from general office buzzwords and confusing phrases. These are words that you might hear people say all the time, but nobody really knows what they mean. Here are a few examples of words to avoid using on your resumé:

• Hard worker
• Moving parts
• Move the needle
• Team player
• Think outside the box

Instead, you’ll want to focus on using specific power words that show (not tell) your skills, experiences and successes on the job.

Here’s an example: Let’s say one of your job responsibilities is to provide customer service over the phone. Look at the difference between an average answer and one using resumé power words:

• Answered customer questions on the phone in a timely manner
• Established trust with customers over the phone by researching and implementing advanced listening skills and reducing call wait times

Do you see the difference? The job responsibility is the same , but the impact of using resumé power words makes this job seeker stand out from the competition.

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Ken Coleman

Ken Coleman is the author of the national bestselling book From Paycheck to Purpose and the #1 national bestseller The Proximity Principle. He hosts The Ken Coleman Show, a caller-driven show that helps listeners find the work they’re wired to do. Ken also co-hosts The Ramsey Show, the second-largest talk radio show in America, and makes regular appearances on Fox News and Fox Business. Through his speaking, broadcasting and syndicated columns, Ken gives people expert advice, providing strategic steps to get clear on their unique purpose and grow professionally. Learn More.

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If you want to set yourself up for success in your job hunt, making a good resumé is the first step. Here are six things to keep in mind when you’re learning how to write a resumé.

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200+ Action Verbs to Spice Up Your Resume

Use varied, strong action verbs to grab the reader’s attention and make your resume stand out to potential employers. This resource includes over 200 action verbs you can use as a starting point. Consider what skills you want to highlight, and check out the verbs in those categories below.

Administrative

Achievement

Collaboration

Communication, creativity & innovation.

Financial & Quantitative Skills

Improvement

Mechanical & Technical Skills

Organization, problem-solving, research & analysis, related resources.

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• Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume

Recruiters often see the same action words on a resume - led, responsible for, managed. And quite frankly, they have lost their meaning when it comes to properly communicating your accomplishments. So, let's spruce up your resume with a few action verbs and phrases that will catch the recruiters eye. 

When you created or wrote something...

Acted, Adapted, Combined, Composed, Conceptualized, Condensed, Created, Customized, Designed, Developed, Devised, Directed, Displayed, Entertained, Established, Fashioned, Formulated, Founded, Illustrated, Initiated, Instituted, Integrated, Introduced, Invented, Modeled, Modified, Originated, Performed, Photographed, Planned, Revised, Revitalized, Shaped, Solve.

When you were a research machine...

Analyzed, Clarified, Collected, Compared, Conducted, Critiqued, Detected, Determined, Diagnosed, Evaluated, Examined, Experimented, Explored, Extracted, Formulated, Gathered, Identified, Inspected, Interpreted, Interviewed, Invented, Investigated, Located, Measured, Organized, Researched, Reviewed, Searched, Solved, Summarized, Surveyed, Systematized.

When you managed a project or group...

Accomplished, Administered, Advanced, Analyzed, Appointed, Approved, Assigned, Attained, Authorized, Chaired, Considered, Consolidated, Contracted, Controlled, Converted, Coordinated, Decided, Delegated, Developed, Directed, Eliminated, Emphasized, Enforced, Enhanced, Established, Executed, Generated, Handled, Headed, Hired, Hosted, Improved, Incorporated, Increased, Initiated, Inspected, Instituted, Led, Managed, Merged, Motivated, Navigated, Organized, Originated, Overhauled, Oversaw, Planned, Presided, Prioritized, Produced, Recommended, Reorganized, Replaced, Restored, Reviewed, Scheduled, Secured, Selected, Streamlined, Strengthened, Supervised, Terminated.

When numbers and figures are your thing...

Administered, Adjusted, Allocated, Analyzed, Appraised, Assessed, Audited, Balanced, Budgeted, Calculated, Computed, Conserved, Controlled, Corrected, Decreased, Determined, Developed, Estimated, Forecasted, Managed, Marketed, Measured, Netted, Planned, Prepared, Programmed, Projected, Qualified, Reconciled, Reduced, Researched, Retrieved. 

When you creatively brought an idea to life... 

Acted, Adapted, Combined, Composed, Conceptualized, Condensed, Created, Customized, Designed, Developed, Devised, Directed, Displayed, Entertained, Established, Fashioned, Formulated, Founded, Illustrated, Initiated, Invented, Modeled, Modified, Originated, Performed, Photographed, Planned, Revised, Revitalized, Shaped, Solved. 

When you helped with a project...

Adapted, Advocated, Aided, Answered, Arranged, Assessed, Assisted, Clarified, Coached, Collaborated, Contributed, Cooperated, Counseled, Demonstrated, Diagnosed, Educated, Encouraged, Ensured, Expedited, Facilitated, Familiarized, Furthered, Guided, Helped, Insured, Intervened, Motivated, Prevented, Provided, Referred, Rehabilitated, Represented, Resolved, Simplified, Supplied, Supported, Volunteered. 

When you needed to explain technical expertise... 

Adapted, Applied, Assembled, Built, Calculated, Computed, Conserved, Constructed, Converted, Debugged, Designed, Determined, Developed, Engineered, Fabricated, Fortified, Installed, Maintained, Operated, Overhauled, Printed, Programmed, Rectified, Regulated, Remodeled, Repaired, Replaced, Restored, Solved, Specialized, Standardized, Studied, Upgraded, Utilized. 

When you were the teacher...

Adapted, Advised, Clarified, Coached, Communicated, Conducted, Coordinated, Critiqued, Developed, Enabled, Encouraged, Evaluated, Explained, Facilitated, Focused, Guided, Individualized, Informed, Installed, Instructed, Motivated, Persuaded, Simulated, Stimulated, Taught, Tested, Trained, Transmitted, Tutored. 

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Resume action verbs

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Action verbs help bring your resume to life by painting a picture for the reviewer, and affirming your skills. Begin each bullet point statement or phrase with an action verb that points the reader to the skill you are trying to highlight.

Management Skills

Financial skills, communication skills, research skills, technical skills, teaching skills, creative skills, helping skills, clerical or detail skills, stronger verbs for accomplishments.

You can also take your resume to the next level by inserting action-packed power verbs into your work history and branding statement.

How to use Action Words to make your resume stand out?

Do you want to show off your accomplishments in your resume? Action Words are a proven way to make a striking first impression in the minds of your recruiters. They convey the things that you ‘accomplished’ instead of just the things that you ‘did’.  

Using action words (also known as power verbs or action verbs) effectively in your resume can indeed make it stand out by emphasizing your achievements & demonstrating your proactive contributions.  

This blog will take you through the steps that can help you to select the suitable action words that you can add in your resume . But before we get into that, here is an action words list that can come to your aid.  

Steps to select the right Action words in your resume: 

Step 1: Choose strong Action words 

Select verbs that are dynamic & specific. Avoid overused words like "led" or "managed" unless they accurately describe your role.  

Instead, consider verbs like "orchestrated," "implemented," "delivered," "streamlined," "spearheaded," etc. This will leave a strong impression & add weight to your resume. 

Step 2: Use Action words suitable for your industry  

Industry-specific action verbs demonstrate that you understand the specific skills & qualifications required in that field. This can make a great first impression on your recruiters looking for those skills & qualifications.  

Using appropriate industry-specific action verbs demonstrates professionalism & attention to detail. It shows that you have taken the time to tailor your resume to match the expectations & requirements of the industry, which can differentiate you from other candidates. 

Step 3: Use Action words to describe your Soft Skills 

Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership & adaptability, are often challenging to illustrate. With the help of Action words, you can easily demonstrate how you have applied these skills in previous roles or projects. 

This will show the recruiters that you understand the importance of these soft skills & are determined to use them to add value to the organization.  

Step 4: Action words that are effective  

Highlight action words that demonstrate your skills & abilities clearly & precisely. Use words used in the job description so that it is easier for Applicant Tracking Systems to navigate through. This alignment shows you understand the job requirements & have the skills needed. 

Whenever possible, pair action verbs with quantifiable results to showcase your impact. For example, instead of saying "Improved sales," say "Increased sales by 30%." 

Step 5: Do not repeat 

Avoid repetition of Action words instead, diversify your language to keep your resume engaging & varied.  

Using a wide variety of action words shows that you have great knowledge & skills making you stand apart from your peers. This also gives off a look that you are detail oriented & reflects your professional strengths. 

Conclusion 

Action words make your resume appear dynamic & engaging. They transform passive descriptions into active statements that showcase your abilities & achievements, capturing the attention of hiring managers & making a stronger impression. 

Ready to elevate your career & leave your mark in your industry? With the help of experts & career coaches from PaintMinds , craft a compelling resume that highlights your interpersonal skills, analytical skills, leadership skills & much more to the utmost level. Visit the website right now to contact our career experts! 

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How to Write a Resume Summary That Stands Out

Published: Jun 18, 2024

In the competitive job market, making a strong first impression is crucial. One of the most effective ways to do this is through a compelling personal summary at the top of your resume. A personal summary, also known as a resume summary, is a brief statement that highlights your key skills, experiences, and career goals. It serves as a snapshot of your professional identity, giving employers a quick overview of who you are and what you bring to the table.

A well-crafted summary not only grabs recruiters’ attention but also sets the tone for the rest of your resume. Here are six actionable tips for making your summary stand out.

1. Tailor your summary to each job

Customize your resume summary for each job application. Carefully read the job description and identify the key skills and experiences the employer is looking for. Then, highlight these in your summary. This shows that you’ve taken the time to understand the role and align your qualifications with the employer’s needs. For example, if a job posting emphasizes teamwork and project management, ensure these qualities are prominent in your summary.

2. Showcase specific achievements

Rather than just listing your skills, provide specific examples of your achievements. Quantify these achievements wherever possible. For example, instead of writing, “Experienced in social media marketing,” you could write, “Increased social media engagement by 50% through strategic content creation and audience targeting.” This helps demonstrate your impact and value to potential employers.

3. Highlight transferable skills

Include skills that are important to target employers, even if they come from different experiences. Many skills are transferable across various roles and industries. Identify these skills in your summary to show your versatility. For example, communication, leadership, and problem-solving are valuable in many fields. Highlighting these can make you a more attractive candidate.

4. Use dynamic and specific language

Action verbs and strong adjectives can make your summary more dynamic and engaging. Words like “led,” “developed,” “managed,” and “innovative” help convey your proactive and results-oriented nature. Avoid generic phrases and be specific about what you’ve accomplished. For example, “Developed a new project management system that improved team efficiency by 30%” is more impactful than simply stating, “Project management skills.”

5. Show the benefits you bring to employers

Your personal summary should not only highlight your skills and achievements but also explain how they benefit potential employers. Think about what makes you unique and how your experiences can add value to the company. For example, “Passionate about using data analysis to drive business decisions, leading to more informed and strategic company growth.” This approach helps employers see the direct benefits of hiring you.

6. Be specific

Avoid generic statements that could apply to anyone. Be specific about your skills and experiences to stand out. While it’s important to use industry-relevant terms, avoid overloading your summary with jargon that might confuse the reader. Employers are more interested in what you’ve achieved rather than just what you were responsible for. Highlight the impact of your specific actions to show your genuine interest and fit for the position.

Andrew Fennell is the founder and director of StandOut CV , a leading CV builder and careers advice website. He is a former recruitment consultant and contributes careers advice to publications like Business Insider, The Guardian, and The Independent.

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