Resume Keywords to Use and Avoid in 2015

As we welcome the new year, it is time to take a long look at the words we use on resumes. There are a host of keywords that should be used and should be avoided the next time you submit a resume in 2015. Even though you might think the words to avoid are important, they are way too common and do not tell the best story about you as an employee.

Keywords to Avoid in 2015

The top 15 keywords to avoid using on your resume in 2015 are as follows:

1. Results-driven
2. Hardworking
3. Innovative
4. Exceptional
5. Good communication skills
6. Effective
7. Outstanding
8. Highly motivated
9. Effectual leader
10. Has talent for
11. Go-to person
12. Team player
13. Strategic thinker
14. Think outside of the box
15. Track record

We have come up with some effective phrases that can replace the top eight keywords listed above.

1. Acquired five new clients
2. Started a new procedure to cut costs
3. Created a new orientation program for employees
4. Ranked number-one in sales in my department
5. Negotiated new contract for department successfully
6. Increased sales productivity by 15 percent
7. Was named employee of the year
8. Created a new incentive program for employees

Keywords to Use in 2015

The top 15 keywords to use on your resume in 2015 are as follows:

1. Improved
2. Achieved
3. Managed
4. Trained/mentored
5. Resolved
6. Created
7. Increased/decreased
8. Volunteered
9. Influenced
10. Under budget
11. Won
12. Ideas
13. Launched
14. Negotiated
15. Revenue/profits

Incorporating these keywords into your resume will help you stand out and exemplify why you are a strong candidate for the opportunity.  The words on this list become even more effective when you put them into a phrase that explains your situation or work experience. Some examples of winning phrases to use with words on this list include the following:

1. Improved workplace culture with addition of events
2. Achieved best results in yearly corporate review
3. Managed team of winning professionals
4. Trained/mentored all new hires in my department this year
5. Resolved office disputes between co-workers
6. Created new rewards program for referrals
7. Increased sales numbers of entire department
8. Led group of company volunteers working at local charities
9. Influenced management when making multiple decisions
10. Brought our department in under budget for three consecutive years

If you are sitting down to write a resume in 2015 and do not know where to begin, make sure you consult the staffing professionals at SmartTalent today to discuss which keywords you should and should not use on your resume.