35 Words You Can Cut From Your Resume Right Now

When The New York Times was in its earliest years, the publication charged by the letter to print anything submitted, coining the term “$10 word.” It’s rumored the verbose Charles Dickens was paid by the word, though that’s more likely because he committed to his novels’ length in advance.

Today, brevity may mean more money for you, if you cut unnecessary words and clichés from your resume. These words are overused, vague, passive and/or outdated, and will make an employer or recruiter think several words of his or her own: “Next,” “ho-hum” or “sigh.”

To stand out among your competitors, get out your red pen and note the phrases and words you can cut from your resume right now:

Utilize, strategize, optimize, maximize or any other “ize” words
Proficient in Microsoft Office or the Internet
Passionate or any form of the word “love”
Hard-working, driven, dedicated or determined
Results-oriented
Team player
Self-starter
Helped or assisted
Handled or worked
Impactful or effective
Experienced or seasoned
Rock star
Quick learner or “thinks on my feet”
Responsible
Innovative or creative
Dynamic
Cutting-edge or think outside the box
References available upon request
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About the Author

Jaime Grimes is the Content Editor for Healthcare IT Leaders. Jaime is an award-winning former journalist who has developed blogs for real estate, insurance and staffing companies.

Zoe Schiffer