Are These Common Resume and Interview Words Hurting Your Job Prospects?

Common Words to Avoid in Resumes and Interviews

Most of the details mentioned here might sound positive or attractive. In fact, these words are either too frequently used or very common and do not represent anything special or unique about your personality and character.

A very large percentage of resumes I come across have these words mentioned, which I feel do not truly represent a candidate.

To list a few of these words: Experienced, Extraordinary, Exceptional, Enthusiastic, Efficient, Hardworking, Talented – these are some common words that candidates use in their summary section. This section, being at the top of a resume, is seen at first glance. If these are found, I or any other interviewer will not read the remaining part of the resume or will lose interest while going through the entire document. The simple reason is that they did not find anything unique, or it was just another one of the bunch of resumes received.

This also happens during interviews when you are asked about yourself. The common words that candidates use are Confident, Hardworking, Dedicated, Emotional, Smart, Good Communication Skills, Quick Learner, Adaptable, and so on.

Try to find new words that describe you as a potential employee and are new to any interviewer's ears. They might have the same meaning as above, but will surely sound different.

And of course, while talking to an interviewer, do not say "well," "you know," "the thing is that," "um," "at the end of the day," "actually," "what I mean to say is..."

Though words may have a 7% impact on communication, it still makes sense.

Hi Excelencia,

Very useful tips indeed. It is good to eliminate the so-called "run-of-the-mill stuff." You have focused on the DON'Ts of a list. What about the DOs? If you can provide some examples, it will be useful to the aspiring interviewees.

V. Raghunathan

Thank you for appreciating the post. Remember, an interview is a conversation between two adults. Both the candidate and interviewer must engage at the same pace and energy. It is not advisable to talk too much or answer questions in single words.

The candidate should first thoroughly review the job description and understand what is expected. They should then match their strengths with the profile and what they can best contribute to the position.

Maximum details should be collected about the company, its history, major clients, major projects, details of directors, ongoing processes, and any changes.

Practice for the applied position and consider what value you would bring to the company. Share your achievements with examples and specific numbers. Rather than saying you achieved 100% of the target, specify that you achieved 1,200 units against a target of 1,100.

When answering questions like "Tell me about yourself" or "What are your achievements," focus on "I" rather than "we."

The candidate should demonstrate their passion and desire to join the company. Aim to turn the interview into a conversation rather than a question-and-answer session. Ensure your body language matches your words. Be confident in your responses.

Understand the company's work culture and align yourself with it. Ask the interviewer questions about growth, hierarchy, work culture, responsibilities, and expectations from the role. The interviewer should feel that you are eager to work for the company and passionate about it.

Before leaving the interview, ask about the expected date of a reply or the date for finalizing the position. Inquire about how you performed in the interview and your chances of being selected.

A thank-you email or letter should be sent 2-3 days after the interview. These are some points a candidate should follow while being interviewed.

Thanks

Hi Excelencia,

Thank you for replying with plenty of tips. I am sure this will be helpful to all those who are going to attend an interview.

V. Raghunathan