Six words you should never put on your CV which could be destroying your chances

10 February 2024 , 15:00

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The buzzwords are overused on the hundreds of CVs potential employers look at (stock image) (Image: Getty Images)

People spend hours building what they think is the perfect CV - without realising they're making a huge mistake.

Remember, employers will sift through hundreds, if not thousands, of applications for a new job posting, so standing out is a must. It's essential your CV lists your experience, education, skills, and strengths in a clear, concise, way - and doesn't waffle on. Make sure you use loads of specific examples to back them up too, rather than just relying on words like 'team player'.

But, career coach and recruitment consultant Simon Bennett has warned that relying on common buzzwords in your application could see you fall at the first hurdle.

Back in 2020, he said many words are frequently overused and rarely backed up with concrete examples, and although many employers may be looking for positive traits, anyone can say they possess them. "Candidates often include the words thinking they are enough to make them sound competent," he told Seek. "But employers want to see how you embody these traits."

Six words you should cut from your CV

• Loyal

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• Energetic

• Punctual

• Motivated

• Hardworking

• Team player

Simon recommends giving examples of the traits instead, so rather than simply stating you are a loyal employee, demonstrate it by saying how long you stayed at one company and why. You should replace these buzzwords with 'powerful action verbs', such as 'achieved' and 'managed', giving examples which can be proved. You could say 'I achieved all my sales targets' or 'I managed a team of three'.

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"These types of action verbs capture attention and excite the reader," said Simon. "These words help to highlight your skills and abilities and demonstrate the success you have achieved in previous jobs."

Julian Williamson, director and founder of The Jobseeker Agency, added it's far better to use facts and figures where possible, and to provide evidence of your achievements rather than simply claiming them. He said it will help the reader quickly get a grasp of your previous roles and responsibilities, adding: "This will add far more value than sprinkling overused buzzwords in your resume."

Liam Gilliver