Power word for provide

Every resume accomplishment needs a strong action verb. But what happens when you run out of ideas?

Let’s face it — scanning resumes isn’t the most riveting job to begin with, and no hiring manager wants to spend their day reading the exact same word over and over. After all, whose eyes wouldn’t glaze over after reading “created” seven times in a row?

If you’re trying to avoid this — and who isn’t? — here’s a complete guide to power verbs, including the best ones to use on your resume.

Examples of resume power words with synonyms

Making your resume sound more interesting is easier said than done. The solution? We’ve put together a list of some most overused resume verbs — and what you can replace them with.

Synonyms for Created on your resume

Hiring managers love people who can get creative — and, more importantly, convert that creativity into results. To show off your high-level conceptual skills, try synonyms like:

• Initiated
• Innovated
• Conceptualized
• Drafted
• Established
• Planned
• Set up
• Devised
• Built
• Developed
• Designed
• Pioneered
• Structured
• Produced

For example:

— Designed and launched customer feedback systems for software company, improving net promoter score by 30 points in pilot teams over 6 months.

— Conceptualized and implemented behavioral push notifications based on in-app usage; increased retention by 10%.

We’ve compiled some more examples and synonyms for Created, and the present tense version of the verb, Create.

Synonyms for Collaborated on your resume

Teamwork and communication are key skills hiring managers are looking for. To demonstrate your ability to contribute to a collegial working environment, try synonyms like:

• Communicated
• Corresponded
• Facilitated
• Negotiated
• Proposed
• Liaised
• Enlisted
• Instructed

For example:

— Liaised with influencers and key bloggers to extend public relations initiatives; yielding 22% ROI improvements.

We’ve compiled more synonyms to the action verb, collaborate.

Synonyms for Managed on your resume

If you’ll be supervising other employees, recruiters will want to see evidence of your management skills. Show that you have what it takes to lead with synonyms like:

• Coordinated
• Administered
• Supervised
• Mentored
• Trained
• Coached
• Guided
• Organized
• Ran
• Led
• Facilitated
• Arranged
• Allocated
• Delegated

For example:

— Led a 15-person department responsible for all consumer acquisition and retention marketing, branding, corporate communications, B2B marketing and sales support, and product development.

— Coached 30 summer interns and launched a mentorship program for new joiners in the Berlin office.

Want more synonyms to Managed? See this list of Managed synonyms compiled by our resident resume expert.

Synonyms for Assisted on your resume

If you’re applying for entry level or assistant roles, highlight your past contributions and willingness to help with synonyms like:

• Co-authored
• Contributed
• Liaised
• Facilitated
• Administered
• Scheduled
• Collaborated
• Organized
• Compiled

For example:

— Organized attorney case files, enabling them to bill 20% more hours.

— Communicated with 20 staff members to schedule meetings and assist them as needed.

For more examples, see other words you can use instead of Assisted.

Synonyms for Learned on your resume

A commitment to learning isn’t just an important aspect of professional development — it’s also a key skill for jobs involving research and analysis. Try using synonyms like:

• Attained
• Mastered
• Discovered
• Identified
• Studied
• Trained
• Enrolled
• Acquired
• Undertook
• Researched

For example:

— Researched and negotiated a new payroll vendor, saving $2,000 annually in payroll fees.

— Identified fraudulent transactions by analyzing customer’s spending behavior, increasing the accuracy rate by over 97%.

Synonyms for Developed on your resume

Whether it’s initiating a project or seeing it through to completion, demonstrate your ability to shape initiatives and guide outcomes with synonyms like:

• Implemented
• Expanded
• Founded
• Invented
• Launched
• Established
• Generated
• Initiated
• Started

For example:

— Founded a tech startup for online education; partnered with 50 education companies in the first year of business.

— Developed web scraping program in Python to help the firm download public data, including over 10,000 company descriptions and stock quotes, enriching internal data and increasing research efficiency by over 50%

We’re prepared more action verbs you can use instead of Developed. If you’re describing your current job, here are synonyms to the present tense version, Develop.

Synonyms for Oversaw on your resume

If you’re applying for roles where you’ll be in charge of something — whether that’s a single product, a small team, or a whole department — highlight your capability with synonyms like:

• Directed
• Led
• Spearheaded
• Orchestrated
• Executed
• Headed

For example:

— Directed agency fundraising revenue generation, daily program business operations, community outreach membership recruitment, and human resources in 30 suburbs in the city for organizations with assets of $8M.

— Executed all global marketing strategies and activities for the $2B company including a 3-5 year strategic plan.

Our in-house resume expert prepared an additional set of synonyms to Oversaw that you can use.

Synonyms for Worked With on your resume

Hiring managers want to hire people who work well with others. Whether you’re in a customer-facing role or simply working within a team, show that you’re a people person with synonyms like:

• Communicated
• Mediated
• Teamed
• Collaborated
• Participated
• Cooperated
• Partnered
• Contributed
• Negotiated
• Networked
• Engaged

For example:

Collaborated with the assistant director of creative services and 15+ other designers to maintain graphic quality.

Devised a pricing and branding strategy with the Strategy team to launch a new three-tier pricing model; achieved a 27% increase in profit

Here are more alternatives you can use to Worked With.

Synonyms for Helped on your resume

Recruiters often look for applicants who are willing to help out, whether in a formal capacity or simply someone who’s willing to go above and beyond in a pinch. Illustrate your can-do attitude with synonyms like:

• Supported
• Enabled
• Improved
• Resolved
• Upgraded
• Advised
• Expedited
• Guided
• Assisted
• Recommended
• Counselled
• Enhanced

For example:

— Enhanced team performance through coaching, feedback and effective communication, increasing team efficacy rate by 15% with higher job satisfaction reported amongst staff.

— Supported CEO and executive team of 5 with Six Sigma training and process implementation, saving over 10 hours per week on office functions.

If you need more action verbs for Helped, check out this list of Helped synonyms. If you’re describing a job you’re currently doing, you can consider using the present tense of the word. In that case, see this list of synonyms for Help.

Synonyms for Conducted on your resume

The most valuable skills on any resume are the ones that show that you can actually do the job you’re applying for. Demonstrate hands-on experience with synonyms like:

• Performed
• Achieved
• Prepared
• Catalogued
• Generated
• Collected
• Operated
• Processed
• Recorded
• Classified
• Investigated
• Screened
• Analyzed

For example:

— Collected data on user experience; made improvements to software and increased usage by 70%.

— Investigated major security breaches in network; set up new firewall with 99% efficacy in blocking future breaches.

For more, see this curated list of synonyms for Conducted.

Synonyms for Maintained on your resume

Whether it’s single-handedly keeping an aspect of the business running or simply contributing to its smooth operation, impress hiring managers with synonyms like:

• Operated
• Refined
• Reviewed
• Streamlined
• Saved
• Allocated
• Balanced
• Automated
• Strengthened
• Engineered

For example:

— Streamlined assembly line process, leading to a 60% increase in worker efficiency.

— Engineered database infrastructures for high-profile clients; increased revenue by 60%.

Here are some more synonyms to the action verb, Maintain.

Synonyms for Responsible For on your resume

Don’t let your resume read like a job description. Keep the focus on what you actually did with synonyms like:

• Demonstrated
• Exceeded
• Navigated
• Performed
• Accomplished
• Achieved
• Completed
• Attained
• Awarded

For example:

Demonstrated exceptional product knowledge of over 300 clinical nutrition formulas and medical foods.

Our resident career coach compiled this list of alternatives you can use to Responsible For.

Synonyms for Led on your resume

If you’re applying for a leadership position, it’s time to highlight accomplishments where you took a leading role. Try synonyms like:

• Planned
• Oversaw
• Programmed
• Chaired
• Cultivated
• Executed
• Hosted
• Guided
• Drove

For example:

Executed self-insured health plan including wellness benefits which saved the business in excess of $70K or 20% and influenced over 200 staff members to become healthier.

Drove the development of an improved mobile app, driving record downloads +250% YOY.

Synonyms for Volunteered on your resume

Hiring managers love candidates who are willing to go above and beyond. Emphasize your philanthropic side with synonyms like:

• Enrolled
• Entered
• Joined
• Registered
• Inducted
• Tendered
• Engaged
• Initiated
• Enlisted

For example:

Engaged volunteers, prepared position descriptions, and led frontline communication for ABC Foundation’s annual signature event held in February.

Synonyms for Ensured on your resume

Keeping everything running smoothly is no small task. Demonstrate your attention to detail with synonyms like:

• Confirmed
• Guaranteed
• Verified
• Monitored
• Screened
• Inspected
• Authorized
• Certified
• Enforced
• Delegated
• Established

For example:

Monitored the performance of each team member by conducting a monthly touch base, coaching in the moment, and implementing disciplinary actions in a write up.

Want more synonyms? See this list of synonyms to Ensure, compiled by our resident hiring manager.

Synonyms for Provided on your resume

The most important thing to hiring managers is the company’s bottom line. Show that you have what it takes to deliver results with synonyms like:

• Generated
• Boosted
• Delivered
• Expanded
• Maximized
• Produced
• Acquired
• Forged
• Negotiated
• Partnered
• Gained
• Capitalized
• Secured
• Grew

For example:

Generated 50+ donors through cold call sales and systematic email outreach; qualified leads based on industry and location.

Maximized revenue by 45% by providing direct supervision and training to 10 managers to problem areas of the company.

If you need them, check out more synonyms to the action verb Provide?

Synonyms for Prepared on your resume

Preparation is sometimes invisible — but that doesn’t mean it has to be! Show off your work behind the scenes with synonyms like:

• Converted
• Deployed
• Integrated
• Merged
• Redesigned
• Strengthened
• Updated
• Adapted
• Employed
• Mobilized
• Restored

For example:

Integrated the developed email campaigns to the new system with the company’s 900+ email list; increased open rates by 10%.

Synonyms for Worked On on your resume

Don’t fill your resume with meaningless fluff like «worked on …» Instead, get straight to the point with synonyms like:

• Targeted
• Compiled
• Contributed
• Formulated
• Pursued
• Undertook
• Operated
• Applied
• Handled
• Adopted

For example:

Led team of 5 to build 7 mobile applications which helped the company retain upwards of $70k per month.

If you need additional synonyms, check out this list of synonyms to Worked, and this set of synonyms to Worked With.

Synonyms for Improved on your resume

If you’ve made things better for your company in a measurable way — improving a process, generating sales, or fixing a problem — those accomplishments should be front and center on your resume. Spotlight your achievements with synonyms like:

• Centralized
• Converted
• Enhanced
• Merged
• Integrated
• Refined
• Revamped
• Streamlined
• Standardized
• Upgraded
• Customized
• Transformed
• Remodeled
• Overhauled
• Rehabilitated

For example:

Enhanced implementing writing standards for the web; reduced 46% of complaints received by the server.

Overhauled existing employee onboarding processes resulting in an increase in performance of 30% in the average employee’s first three months.

Synonyms for Researched on your resume

Research is a crucial skill for many jobs — and not just roles where formal research is a key responsibility. Show off your critical thinking and analytical skills with synonyms like:

• Analyzed
• Examined
• Measured
• Quantified
• Investigated
• Evaluated
• Assessed
• Forecasted
• Surveyed
• Tested
• Tracked
• Identified
• Studied

For example:

Identified manually intensive data collection tasks for the sales team and worked with engineering to launch tools that reduced manual work by 100 hours each month.

Analyzed data to identify potential upsell opportunities for new clients leading to $600K in sales.

Synonyms for Communicated on your resume

Communication is one of those soft skills that nearly job needs — and any applicant can claim to have. Show, don’t tell, with synonyms like:

• Authored
• Briefed
• Corresponded
• Documented
• Presented
• Wrote
• Reviewed
• Edited
• Campaigned
• Composed
• Lobbied
• Explained
• Consulted
• Informed
• Advised

For example:

Guided and advised 10+ business partners through annual talent assessments, discussions, and proactively pipelining for future openings.

Wrote 12 articles on consumer psychology and entrepreneurship, generating 25,000 page views, 4,000 re-tweets, and 3,500 newsletter subscribers.

If you need more resume synonyms, check out this list of action verbs of Communicate synonyms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of our FAQs — or, in other words, everything you need to know about resume power verbs.

What are resume power verbs?

You’ve probably heard of power words, but what are they exactly? Power words, power verbs, and action verbs are all the same thing — the verbs you use to start your work experience bullet points. These are the words that specify what you did, like “managed,” “developed,” or “assisted.”

Why should I use power words on my resume?

You might be wondering why you even need synonyms for common resume power verbs — after all, what’s wrong with sticking to a few common verbs? Simply put, it’s because reading the same thing over and over is boring.

If a recruiter reads half a dozen bullet points starting with the same word, they’ll start to lose focus, have trouble differentiating your accomplishments, and will likely conclude that you’re repeatedly demonstrating a limited number of skills.

On the other hand, using interesting, unique verbs can help your accomplishments stand out and allow you to be more precise about exactly what it is you achieved.

I’d recommend uploading your resume to the tool below — it’ll let you know if you have used strong action verbs and synonyms to showcase your accomplishments.

Related: Improve Your Resume by Eliminating Adverbs

What words should I avoid using on my resume?

Here are a few things to steer clear of when writing a resume:

Buzzwords

Power words are not the same thing as buzzwords. Meaningless phrases like “results driven,” “above and beyond,” “hard worker,” and “team player” are overused and too subjective to belong on your resume.

Boring words and phrases

Phrases like “responsible for” or “in charge of” are boring, but even worse, they say very little about what it is you actually did. Avoid anything that sounds like it came straight from a job description — always focus on your accomplishments, not on your responsibilities.

Repetition

If you find yourself using the same verb more than once or twice on your resume — especially in quick succession — it’s time to change it up. Scroll up for a list of synonyms for common resume power verbs, or check out some alternative action verbs.

Eliminate buzzwords and boring phrases from your resume and replace them with keywords and hard skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Use the tool below to find some relevant ones.

How do I know if I’ve used resume power verbs?

Try uploading your resume to a free resume checker. Score My Resume can give you instant feedback about the strength of your resume and a few easy suggestions for improvement.

Oleksii Kovalenko

Oleksii Kovalenko is a digital marketing specialist and a writer with a degree in international marketing. He has six years of experience helping ecommerce store owners to promote their businesses.

We have a growing problem on our hands. Pages are being exited. Ads are getting skipped. Eyes are glazing over—some even seen rolling—as uninteresting and overused words take over the web.

The number of homepages with “innovative solutions” is at an all-time high and “ultimate” guides are taking over the SERP.

Something. must. be. done.

Now, these words aren’t completely off-limits, but when you really want something to pop—like in a headline, subject line, blog introduction, or landing page—you’ve gotta do better than “important” or “success.”  And as such, I present to you a list of 350+ more interesting words to use in your content to capture clicks and interest and to actually be innovative.

Power words table of contents

This word list is broken up by part of speech. You’ll see the overused and/or uninteresting word followed by a boatload of alternatives, plus some visual examples to show you their impact. Enjoy!

• Power adjectives
  • More interesting words for: best in class | daunting | easy | effective | fast | great | important | innovative | ultimate | unique
• Power verbs
  • More interesting words for: boost | check out | engage | improve | provide | stop | succeed
• Empowering verbs
• Adverbs
• Nouns
  • More interesting words for: guide | sale | strategies
• Pain point power words
• Ideal state words
• Hook words

How to use these power words

• Think interesting, not impressive: Don’t replace a word you have to sound smarter or to speak louder. This is a big copywriting mistake. Trying to write “wow” copy will have the opposite effect. Aim for subtle adjustments that are just different enough to be memorable.
• Think specificity: Oftentimes, the better word choice is not a fancier or hyperbolic version of that word, but something more specific. Instead of “seasoned experts,” for example, you might say “GRC-certified experts.”
• Don’t force it: Good copy reads easily. Plain language should be your base with interesting words sprinkled in like accents.

Adjectives: Power words for…

Best in class

As in, providing best-in-class solutions. This is an empty buzzword that says you’re trying to market your business, rather than share what you’re proud of and passionate about. You can throw “cutting-edge” out the window too. Here are some actual power words to use instead:

Daunting

This word is a hard no. If I had a dollar for every time I’ve seen the word “daunting” in an introduction to a how-to blog post, I’d be rich. It’s the right idea to express compassion around the pain point your business or piece of content solves, but there are so many be alternatives to try:

Easy

Let’s be clear: “easy” is a marketing power word, so I encourage you to use it. But if you’re looking for some other ways to say it or how to be a bit more specific, this list has you covered.

Effective

Effective is not a bad word, but if you’re trying to write compelling marketing copy, it’s weak. Effective at what? Compared to what? Be more specific or try something more interesting to stand out.

Fast

Instant gratitude is the name of the game these days. This is another strong word to use, especially when you need to be concise. For more creative copywriting, try out these words:

Great

Unless you’re going from good to great, there are lots of better words to use than this one in your blog posts, emails, and ad copy. Try more interesting synonyms to “great” or get more specific about what “great” achieves:

Important

The mistake with this word is not overusing it, but rather in underusing it. Most things you’re writing about are just plain important. Not crucial. Not extremely important. Not imperative. Just, important. Unnecessarily overemphasizing something often weakens your message.

BUT that doesn’t mean there isn’t a place for stronger synonyms. Save these for when they make sense, like maybe in your elevator pitch:

Side note: If you want to write better introductions, stop starting your blog posts with “X is an important part of Y.” Try a personal story, fun fact, joke, stat, quote, funny warning, or an analogy. Lots of options here.

Innovative

This word is in the same camp as “best in class” and “cutting edge.” That’s not to say that you’re not actually an innovative company. But if you’re truly innovative, you’ll break away from every other business using this word in their ads and about pages and come up with something different…am I right?

Ultimate

What’s wrong with this word, you ask? Nothing. It’s interesting, rolls of the tongue, and compels the reader…until every guide and checklist you put out there is the ultimate one. Remember, a great headline delivers on its promise and doesn’t over-sensationalize. This word—and the synonyms below—are okay to use sparingly, just save them for when you really have something comprehensive.

Unique

If you’re looking to use this word to describe your business, abort that mission and instead just use unique words, images, and designs in your content. But if you’re sharing unique tips or strategies, and want something different to use in your ad headlines, try any of these:

More power adjectives

Here is a miscellaneous list of interesting description words that just bubbled to the surface in my brain while writing this post.

Verbs: Power words for…

Boost

Now this word is definitely more interesting than “increase” but I see this one everywhere, too. And while some of the words on this list aren’t necessarily as exciting, you can sometimes have a greater impact by downgrading to a less exciting but less-common (and therefore more interesting) word.

Check out

I use this one wayyyyy too much so I’m always looking for alternatives. It’s a harmless word that works in any scenario, but if you’re ever looking to spice things up, here are a few seasonings to try:

Engage

Marketing is basically one big effort to engage your audience. So as a person who markets marketing, you can bet that I find myself overusing this word. Here are some alternatives:

Improve

Here is another word that isn’t really overused, it’s just plain bagel. Cheese pizza. Vanilla ice cream. If you’re more of a rocky roader, these words might suit you:

Provide

You’ll notice that in our blog posts, the introduction always tells the reader what the piece of content is about.  As in, “In this post, we’re going to provide …” which means that I’m always trying to come up with alternative way of saying this. Here are some!

Stop

“Stop” is actually a great word for marketing with emotion. It can convey urgency and panic (as in, “stop paying your landlord’s mortgage) while at the same time empowering the reader. Use these stop words in your Facebook ad copy, landing page headlines, email subject lines, and more.

Succeed

This one is another easy fallback, especially with B2B marketing. After all, every business wants to succeed, right?

More empowering verbs

More power verbs

Power adverbs

Nouns: Power words for…..

Guide

Sale

Strategies

More interesting nouns

• Breath of fresh air
• Bridge
• Catalyst
• Guesswork
• Inside track
• Music to their ears
• Secret sauce
• Secret weapon

Pain point power words

Here’s how your customers don’t want to feel

Ideal state power words

Hook words

• Didn’t know you needed
• Or so you thought
• That might change your mind
• Think again
• Until now
• You thought you knew
• You didn’t know about
• Wish you knew about sooner

Want more power words?

If you’re looking for more creative ways to communicate with your audience, you’re in luck because here at WordStream, we happen to love words…

• 120 of the Best Words & Phrases for Marketing 
• 273 Words & Phrases for Emotional Copywriting
• 7 Power Words to Test in Your Facebook Ads

What do people mean when they say “resume power words?” Does it have something to do with Power Rangers? Why use resume action words anyway?

Imagine that resumes are bottles of shampoo. And the poor recruiter goes through hundreds of lather, rinse, repeat every day. You need to stand out to get their attention! And this is where those resume words step in.

We’ve prepared a list of over 300 resume action words—now all you have to do is choose.

This list of resume action words provides:

• 310 resume action words grouped by keyword synonym.
• Easy-to-use lists of resume power words, organized to save you time.
• Separate lists of resume adjectives to make your work stand out.
• Expert tips to use the best resume verbs and other good resume words like a pro.

Want to save time and have your resume ready in 5 minutes? Try our resume builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click. See 20+ resume templates and create your resume here.

Sample resume made with our builder—See more resume samples here.

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Resume Action Words to Use Instead of Boring Words

Why use powerful resume words?

Well, pretend you’re hungry.

In front of you are 300 American cheese sandwiches on white bread.

Ho hum.

But then you see a turkey-bacon panini with thin-sliced avocado and a side of homemade curly fries.

Beside it sits a frosty mug of ice cold beer.

Resume power words make your resume stand out like that.

Bear in mind this isn’t a “how to fluff a resume” piece. It’s not a checklist of magic NLP phrases that will hypnotize the recruiter.

Use it to improve your writing, highlight strengths on your resume, and to help the employer understand why you should be the chosen one.

But you don’t want a phone-book-style list of 310 resume verbs, power words, and adjectives. So—here are 10 individual lists.

After that are lists of resume adjectives, and how to find the best keywords for your resume.

Click to see each action verbs list below and jump to the right section:

Resume Action Words Lists

• “Team Player” Action Words
• “Leadership” Words for Resume
• “Responsible For” Synonyms
• “Communication” Power Words
• “Achiever” Action Words
• “Worked On” Action Words
• “Improved” Power Words
• “Researched” Synonyms
• “Creativity and Problem Solving” Words
• “Managed” Resume Verbs
• “Assist” Resume Verbs
• “Utilize” Resume Verbs

Want adjectives or resume keywords to give your job search a fighting chance? Click any of the resume words lists below, or just scroll down.

Resume Adjectives & Resume Keywords

• List of Resume Adjectives
• The Best Resume Keywords

Pro Tip: Picking power verbs for resume writing? Change it up. Use each one only once if you can help it.

Use powerful words and action verbs on your LinkedIn profile too. Want yours to really sing? See our guide: A LinkedIn Summary & Profile That Gets Jobs

Everybody knows how to use resume action words. Right?

The answer may surprise you.

The best resume words don’t describe you.

They describe the things you’ve done.

What are Resume Action Words?

Resume action words, also called resume power words, are words you should use in your resume to describe your professional skills, tasks, and achievements at work in a short and powerful way. Typically, they are action verbs but adjectives and some buzzwords are also considered good words for resumes. 

With action words:

• Responsible for becomes Improved…
• Worked with becomes Collaborated on a team that…
• In Charge Of becomes Directed 20 employees to…

Rather than describe your job, resume action verbs paint a vivid picture of your expertise and professional wins.

Why Do Good Resume Verbs Make Writing Stronger?

Resume action verbs make writing stronger for two reasons.

First, they zap the boring phrases hiring managers see hundreds of times daily.

Second, they guide you toward job-winning specifics. With action words, you didn’t just handle a responsibility. You slashed costs X% or drove time savings of X hours/week.

What Action Words to Use in a Resume

Avoid like the plague words that say, “I’m awesome, great, experienced, an expert, a hard worker.”

Those are “toot your own horn” words.

Instead, use resume words that say, “I’m about to show you how I’m awesome.”

The 310 resume words in this article do just that.

Use Exact Numbers with Your Resume Power Words

With any of the resume words below, add numbers.

Calculate the dollars saved, the revenue increased, the time reduced.

Then use good resume action verbs to introduce those numbers.

Example:

Implemented a new inventory system and slashed costs 20%.

Pro Tip: What’s even more powerful than great action words for a resume? Great referrals. Reach out to employees at the company and listen to them talk about their job.

Need achievements to pair with all those great resume action words? See our guide: Achievements to Put on a Resume — Complete Guide (+30 Examples)

Employers hate seeing “team player” on a resume.

Yet, they want to hire team players.

See the problem?

You’ve got to show you’re a team player without saying it.

So, in your resume bullet points, display achievements. Show times you worked with others and got great results.

You cut costs, raised revenue, or found efficiencies. Give specific dollar amounts, hours per week, and percentages.

Lead off with the resume action verbs for collaborate below.

20 of the Best Resume Action Words for Team Player:

1. Acknowledged
2. Assimilated
3. Blended
4. Coalesced
5. Collaborated
6. Contributed
7. Diversified
8. Embraced
9. Encouraged
10. Energized
11. Gathered
12. Harmonized
13. Ignited
14. Joined
15. Melded
16. Merged
17. Participated
18. Partnered
19. United
20. Volunteered

Pro Tip: Use great action verbs for resume writing, but use them sparingly. One active power verb per bullet point sentence is plenty.

Want to fit your resume words to the job offer like a pair of yoga pants? See our guide: How to Personalize Your Resume to Match a Job Description (Examples)

Hiring managers love leaders.

They can’t stand candidates who merely say they’re leaders.

How many team members were you in charge of? How many hours of training did you give? What projects did you spearhead?

There’s your proof. Showcase it in style with the resume power words for leadership below.

20 of the Best Resume Words for Leadership:

1. Authorized
2. Chaired
3. Cultivated
4. Delegated
5. Directed
6. Enabled
7. Executed
8. Facilitated
9. Fostered
10. Guided
11. Headed
12. Hosted
13. Inspired
14. Mentored
15. Mobilized
16. Operated
17. Orchestrated
18. Oversaw
19. Spear­headed
20. Trained

Pro Tip: Action verbs for resume use can backfire if you use them wrong. Make sure you fully understand the power words you use.

If adding resume words can help your chances, what other great tips are just around the corner? See our guide: 42 Amazing Resume Tips That You Can Use in 30 Minutes [Examples]

Trying to stand out with power words for your resume?

Make sure they’re the right ones.

This is a list of the most popular ones:

Overused Resume Words

• In Charge Of
• Excellent
• Go Getter
• Hard Worker
• Strategic Thinker
• Outside the Box
• Responsible For
• Expert
• Innovative
• Specialized In
• Creative
• Synergized
• Go To
• Results-driven
• Team Player
• Detail Oriented
• Focused
• Ninja
• Super
• Great

A CareerBuilder study of 2200 hiring managers found the common resume buzzwords hiring managers hate most.

What do they have in common? Most say you’re great, but don’t convey any actual information.

Use resume words you can hook achievements to instead.

 

Tired Resume Words	Use Instead
In Charge Of	Directed…
Excellent	Improved…
Go Getter	Accomplished…
Hard Worker	Achieved…
Strategic Thinker	Designed…
Outside the Box	Created…
Responsible For	Managed…
Expert	Delivered…
Innovative	Developed…
Specialized In	Handled…
Creative	Created…
Synergized	Collaborated With…
Go To	Trusted By…
Results-driven	Raised…
Team Player	Participated In…
Detail Oriented	Spotted…
Focused	Refined…
Ninja	Installed…
Super	Slashed…
Great	Increased…

Pro Tip: What if you land the interview, then they ask you to very common interview questions, such as asking to describe yourself? Use resume action words to show how well you’ll fit the job.

Looking for resume power words to use in a student resume? Want help making it 10x more effective? See our guide on the subject: Student Resume Sample & Complete Writing Guide [with 20+ Examples]

“Responsible for” is the sneakers-in-a-dryer of resume words.

Instead, say how you improved what you were responsible for.

Use these resume words to do it right:

20 of the Best Resume Action Words for Responsible For:

1. Accomplished
2. Acquired
3. Achieved
4. Acted As
5. Completed
6. Created
7. Executed
8. Finished
9. Forged
10. Made
11. Navigated
12. Negotiated
13. Operated
14. Partnered
15. Performed
16. Prepared
17. Produced
18. Secured
19. Succeeded In
20. Undertook

Pro Tip: It’s okay to use more common resume action verbs once in a while. Just avoid the most common power words whenever possible.

How many words should a resume be? Check our resources: Should a Resume Be One Page? How to Make It a Single Page [+Tips]

What hiring manager doesn’t love a good communicator?

Here’s a tip:

An applicant with good communication skills would never say, “I’m a good communicator.”

She’d show it.

So—tout achievements your communication caused.

Did you negotiate deals 10% more effectively than others? Author the company newsletter?

Show it with the powerful resume words below.

20 of the Best Resume Words for Communication:

1. Advocated
2. Authored
3. Clarified
4. Composed
5. Consulted
6. Conveyed
7. Convinced
8. Corresponded
9. Defined
10. Explained
11. Fielded
12. Illustrated
13. Influenced
14. Informed
15. Mediated
16. Moderated
17. Negotiated
18. Promoted
19. Persuaded
20. Publicized

Pro Tip: Can’t find the right action verbs for resumes to describe your great achievement? Sometimes it’s best to let the accomplishment speak for itself.

Are you listing work experience the best way on your resume? Try this link: How to List Work Experience on Your Resume [+20 Examples]

Want to look incompetent?

Just put “Achiever” on your resume.

Want to look like Tony Stark with MS Office skills?

Use the strong resume words below to show exactly what you have achieved.

20 of the Best Resume Action Words for Achiever:

1. Accelerated
2. Accomplished
3. Advanced
4. Amplified
5. Boosted
6. Completed
7. Created
8. Delivered
9. Enacted
10. Enhanced
11. Expanded
12. Expedited
13. Generated
14. Improved
15. Lifted
16. Managed
17. Maximized
18. Outpaced
19. Produced
20. Stimulated

Pro Tip: Avoid over-flashy resume action verbs like “destroyed,” “smashed,” or “annihilated.” Use them only if you’re applying to the WWE.

Poor use of resume action words is a big mistake. The same is true for choosing tenses. See how to fix this: Resume Tense: Past or Present? What Voice?

Use those self-descriptive words on a resume:

• Insightful.
• Professional.
• Astute.
• Diligent.
• Reliable.
• A Self-starter.
• Motivated.
• Dynamic.
• Organized.
• Passionate.
• Meticulous.
• Thoughtful.
• Intelligent.
• Cutting Edge.
• Ingenious.
• Unique.
• Skilled.
• Competent.
• Devoted.
• Genuine.
• Attentive
• Dedicated.
• Determined.
• Sincere.
• Knowledgeable.
• Persistent.
• Disciplined.
• Honest.

Let’s not tiptoe.

Most people think the right adjectives for resume will impress the employer.

They won’t.

Have you ever seen It’s a Wonderful Life?

There’s a scene where a pipsqueak tells Donna Reed, “Nobody’d say anything to me about it because they all know what kind of guy I am.”

That’s exactly how “powerful” resume adjectives make you look.

They’re a bluff. A strutting rooster. A little guy beating his chest.

Theodore Roosevelt said, “Speak softly and carry a big stick.”

Your big stick is achievements. Ditch the flowery resume adjectives and cite jaw-dropping accomplishments. Use the resume words below.

 

Resume Adjectives	Use Instead
Self-Starter	Initiated…
Insightful	Noticed…
Intelligent	Solved…
Astute	Sighted…
Meticulous	Caught…
Thoughtful	Cared for…
Cutting Edge	Devised
Ingenious	Invented…
Unique	Commended for…
Skilled	Achieved…
Competent	Constructed…
Devoted	Worked to…
Genuine	Rated by customers as…
Dedicated	Formed…
Determined	Discovered…
Sincere	Received kudos for…
Knowledgeable	Trained…
Persistent	Accomplished…
Disciplined	Forged
Honest	Trusted with…

Pro Tip: We’re not saying to use zero resume power words as adjectives. One or two in a resume can help paint your picture. But stick to a couple. They’re the wave crest, not the ocean.

What else can make your resume stand out aside from strong resume phrases and words? Using the best fonts. For more info see: Best Font for a Resume: What Size & Typeface to Use? [15+ Pro Tips]

It’s not enough to tell employers what you worked on.

Thomas Andrews worked on designing the Titanic.

What exactly did you accomplish?

Don’t just say you worked on something. Say how many, how much, how often. Find the success. Give numbers. Show value.

To share those numbers, include these powerful resume words for “worked on” below.

20 of the Best Resume Action Words for Worked On:

1. Arranged
2. Compiled
3. Composed
4. Constructed
5. Created
6. Developed
7. Engaged In
8. Fashioned
9. Forged
10. Formulated
11. Made
12. Made Progress On
13. Operated
14. Organized
15. Perfected
16. Prepared
17. Pursued
18. Put Together
19. Set Up
20. Undertook

Pro Tip: Avoid passive verbs for resumes like “is,” “were,” and “was” when possible. Use active verbs instead.

Should you send a PDF or MS Word Doc resume? See our guide: Resume in PDF or Word: What is the Best Resume File Type?

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check. Start building a professional resume template here for free.

When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.

Did you make something skyrocket?

Showing it on a resume can get you hired.

But you can’t keep saying “I improved” over and over.

Mix it up with the resume words below.

20 of the Best Resume Action Words for Improved:

1. Boosted
2. Converted
3. Customized
4. Grew
5. Integrated
6. Lifted
7. Merged
8. Overhauled
9. Raised
10. Redesigned
11. Refined
12. Remodeled
13. Reorganized
14. Restructured
15. Revamped
16. Saved
17. Slashed
18. Streamlined
19. Strengthened
20. Updated

Pro Tip: Using action verbs for resumes to describe accomplishments? Try to match them to what the hiring manager needs. That’s easy to find—it’s in the job ad.

Besides resume verbs, what else should you put on your resume? See our guide: What to Put on a Resume to Make it Perfect [Tips & Examples]

Does the job description call for research skills?

Steer clear of generic resume phrases like, “Handled research duties and responsibilities.”

Focus instead on the effect your research had.

Did your analytical skills save money? Time? Earn commendations from management?

Use the resume verbs below to say that.

20 of the Best Resume Action Words for Researched:

1. Analyzed
2. Assessed
3. Audited
4. Calculated
5. Checked
6. Discovered
7. Examined
8. Explored
9. Identified
10. Inspected
11. Investigated
12. Mapped
13. Measured
14. Probed
15. Proved
16. Quantified
17. Studied
18. Surveyed
19. Tested
20. Tracked

Pro Tip

Not sure how to present your current position? Explore ideas for professional titles here: 450 Job Titles that Work on a Resume & Job Hunt [Current & Desired!]

Lots of jobs need creativity skills.

Saying, “I’m creative” on a resume proves you aren’t.

Use resume power words to show what you created.

Exactly what did you design? Did your creations win awards and commendations?

Did you go faster than your coworkers? Do it cheaper? Get higher customer reviews?

Use the resume words below to show that with a little zest.

20 of the Best Resume Action Words for Creativity and Problem-Solving:

1. Altered
2. Built
3. Corrected
4. Crafted
5. Designed
6. Determined
7. Devised
8. Drafted
9. Enhanced
10. Established
11. Fashioned
12. Fixed
13. Initiated
14. Invented
15. Overhauled
16. Patched
17. Piloted
18. Pioneered
19. Rebuilt
20. Resolved

Pro Tip: “Why should we hire you?” Have the right resume verbs ready. Back them up with numbers, and you’ll ace that common interview question with flying colors.

Can formatting help as much as action verbs for a resume? See our guide: Resume Format: How to Format a Professional Resume (Examples & Templates)

You could just say your last job was in management.

That alone will show you’ve got experience.

But hiring managers love metrics.

So, think about what you achieved through managing employees.

The good resume words below will help.

20 of the Best Resume Action Words for Managing:

1. Aligned
2. Cultivated
3. Directed
4. Enabled
5. Facilitated
6. Fostered
7. Guided
8. Hired
9. Inspired
10. Mentored
11. Mobilized
12. Motivated
13. Recruited
14. Regulated
15. Shaped
16. Supervised
17. Taught
18. Trained
19. Unified
20. United

Pro Tip: Action words are a great addition to a CV too. A CV vs a resume may be two different documents, but both benefit from kicking the content up a notch.

Need some great resume keywords that look good on any resume? Want resume skills words that boost your interview odds? See our guide: 30+ Best Examples of What Skills to Put on a Resume (Proven Tips)

Not only assistant jobs require assisting.

Still, the word seems not strong enough to convey competence and trustworthiness.

Use the following synonyms instead to show your impact:

Top 15+ Resume Synonyms for Assist

1. Abet
2. Aid
3. Advance
4. Boost
5. Help
6. Counsel
7. Coach
8. Cooperate
9. Collaborate
10. Dispatch
11. Expedite
12. Endorse
13. Facilitate
14. Maintain
15. Promote
16. Reinforce
17. Support

You can also use these phrases when writing your cover letter. Find out how to format your cover letter the right way. Check our guide: Cover Letter Format: Templates & 20+ Samples

This three-syllable word means the same thing as the word “use”.

Both have more powerful substitutes to use in a resume.

Take a look at the list below.

Best 10+ Resume Synonyms for Utilize

1. Apply
2. Adopt
3. Deploy
4. Employ
5. Exert
6. Handle
7. Mobilize
8. Operate
9. Promote
10. Put to Use
11. Restore
12. Revive
13. Specialize in

Is this your first time writing a resume? We have a tailor-made guide for you. Check: First Resume with No Work Experience: Samples and Expert Tips

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here’s what it may look like:

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Resume keywords aren’t the same as action words.

Action words begin your bullet points.

They introduce achievements that convince the hiring manager to hire you.

You saved, slashed, raised, or developed something.

Resume keywords showcase your specific skills.

Need a list of good skills to put on a resume? The best ones are in the job offer.

Use the ones the employer is hungry for, and the Applicant Tracking Software will reward you.

• Use 25-30 resume keywords.
• Read the job offer carefully. Highlight any skills keywords the job requires.
• Don’t just use those keywords in your bullet points. Add resume action verbs to show how those skills helped the company.

What’s the most important resume keyword every application should contain? Find that and other key tips in our guide: Best Resume Keywords to Use: Step-by-Step Guide

Key Takeaway

 

Here’s a recap of resume action words and how to use them:

• Resume action verbs are words that introduce accomplishments. They describe job duties, but leave room for all-important metrics.
• Don’t ever simply say you’re skilled, a go-getter, or hardworking. Back it up with resume power words and concrete figures.
• Avoid tired phrases and words like “outside the box” or “innovative.” They’re the worst resume words because they come off like empty bragging.
• Use the 310 resume action verbs in this guide to make your resume more readable. They’ll also help you prove your worth and get a lot more interviews.

Do you have questions resume action words? Not sure how to use resume power words to get the best effect? Give us a shout in the comments! Let’s talk about phrases you love to hate and hate to love!

Frequently Asked Questions about Action Verbs and Resume Words

What are power words in a resume?

Power words are words and phrases that catch the reader’s attention. Power words in a resume are used to make the candidate’s job application stand out from others. Most powerful resume words are verbs. They can be used to describe actions, duties, and tasks from the candidate’s most relevant experience. For example, instead of writing “responsible for running internal projects”, the candidate can use a power word and write “coordinated internal projects” and make a better impression on the recruiter. This way, it’s easier for applicants to showcase the qualities that employers value.

What are good verbs for a resume?

The best resume verbs are action verbs. They describe activities that involved physical or mental actions and provided a significant result. Good verbs for resumes suggest that the action was successful, which automatically boosts the candidate’s qualifications. They are perfect for describing accomplishments and worth researching when you’re learning to write a good resume.

Here’s a sample action verb list:

• Accomplished
• Applied
• Audited
• Clarified
• Collaborated
• Conducted
• Constructed
• Coordinated
• Created
• Customized
• Decreased
• Delegated
• Demonstrated
• Developed
• Directed
• Eliminated
• Enhanced
• Established
• Evaluated
• Facilitated
• Forecasted
• Formulated
• Guided
• Helped
• Illustrated
• Implemented
• Initiated
• Maintained
• Managed
• Marketed
• Motivated
• Operated
• Performed
• Programmed
• Projected
• Represented
• Resolved
• Revitalized
• Simulated
• Supplied
• Supported
• Trained
• Upgraded
• Utilized
• Visualized
• Volunteered

What are good action words for a resume?

Action words in resumes are synonymous with action verbs. These words or phrases are best for describing achievements, work experience, as well as skills in a functional resume. Using resume action verbs helps to catch the recruiter’s attention and to stand out from other applicants.

Some examples of good action words for a resume include: administered, advocated, created, completed, demonstrated,  designed, enabled, estimated, facilitated, fixed, implemented, investigated, merged, managed, operated, overhauled, tested, transformed, utilized, updated.

You can find different categories of resume action words in this article:

• “Team Player” Action Words
• “Leadership” Words for Resume
• “Responsible For” Synonyms
• “Communication” Power Words
• “Achiever” Action Words
• “Worked On” Action Words
• “Improved” Power Words
• “Researched” Synonyms
• “Creativity and Problem Solving” Words
• “Managed” Resume Verbs
• “Assist” Resume Verbs
• “Utilize” Resume Verbs

What are resume buzzwords?

Resume buzzwords are verbs, nouns, and adjectives that can help the candidate to stand out from other applicants. They include action verbs for describing work experience, nouns that describe tasks and responsibilities, and personality adjectives that describe the candidate’s personal qualities and can be used during job interviews to talk about yourself.

While using buzzwords is encouraged, the candidates must do it right. Many resume buzzwords, such as “team player” or “passionate” are so overused that they became cliché, and can make a resume look bad. When writing a resume, it’s best to have a look at lists of useful resume buzzwords, as well as use a thesaurus to find synonyms whenever necessary. You can also easily improve your old resume by editing it and adding a few buzzwords here and there.

Click on the links below to find more resume words:

• List of Resume Buzzwords
• List of Resume Adjectives

Should a resume start with verbs?

It’s good practice to start some sentences in a resume with action verbs. While the candidate’s personal profile usually starts with a strong personality adjective, job title, or a strong resume headline, the description of work experience should start with action verbs. For example, instead of writing “I was responsible for designing the app user interface”, they might say: “Designed the app user interface”. It not only saves space. Such descriptions of candidates’ duties make a better impression on the recruiter.

It’s important to use power words in your resume and cover letters when applying for jobs. Using these words helps demonstrate your strengths and highlights why you are right for the job. Power words also jazz up your job descriptions and make them seem alive, as opposed to flat. 

Let’s begin by looking at the types of power words, why they are important, and how to effectively use them.

What Power Words Accomplish

Power words are used for several reasons. First, many hiring managers quickly skim through resumes and cover letters due to the high volume they receive. These power words jump off the page, quickly showing the hiring manager you have the skills and qualifications to get the job done.

Also, most resume language is repetitive and boring. If your language is the same as everyone else’s, it will be hard for you to stand out.

Finally, power words (especially keywords) are useful when a company uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). These tracking systems help screen applications so that employers only need to focus on the top candidates. One way an ATS works is to eliminate resumes that are missing certain keywords.

By including these words, you increase your chances of making it through the ATS and having your application read.

Types of Power Words

Action verbs: One type of power word is an action verb. This kind of verb shows your ability to succeed. These words demonstrate the skills you have used in previous jobs to achieve success.

Examples of action verbs include «accomplished,» «designed,» «initiated,» and «supervised.»

Company values: To demonstrate that you are a good fit for the company, use key terms that the company uses to describe itself. You might find this language on the company’s “About Us” web page, or in the job listing. For example, if the company identifies itself as “innovative,” one power word you might incorporate into your resume is “innovate” or “innovative.” 

Popular skill words: There are certain skills and qualities that almost every employer is looking for in a job candidate. For example, employers always want an employee who is responsible, passionate, and a strong leader. Try to use this kind of language to demonstrate you have these essential skills.

Keywords: Keywords are words from the job listing that relate to particular skills or other requirements for the job. By embedding them in your resume or cover letter, you will demonstrate, at a glance, that you fit the requirements of the position. Keywords might be “analyzed,” “quantified,” “planned,” “programmed,” “designed,” “taught,” or “trained.”

Industry buzzwords and jargon: Each industry has certain keywords that are important. Knowing and accurately using those words demonstrates you have the necessary hard skills.

Resume buzzwords: You can decode the buzzwords that employers use in job postings, and use them to highlight your relevant skills in your resume.

Sprinkle the appropriate buzzwords into your resume and cover letter to demonstrate that you are a part of the industry. Some common buzzwords are experienced,» «expert,» «skilled,» «facilitated,» «launched,» and «demonstrated.»

How to Use Power Words

You can include power words throughout your resume, including in your job descriptions, resume summary statement, and your cover letter. 

Finally, it’s very important that you only use terms you are familiar with.

Power Words for Resumes and Cover Letters

A–D

• Absorb
• Accelerate
• Access
• Accomplish
• Accrue
• Acquire
• Achieve
• Act
• Activate
• Adapt
• Address
• Adjust
• Administer
• Advertise
• Advise
• Advocate
• Affirm
• Aid
• Alert
• Align
• Allocate
• Analyze
• Apply
• Appraise
• Approve
• Arbitrate
• Arranged
• Assemble
• Assess
• Assign
• Assist
• Attain
• Authorize
• Award
• Begin
• Brief
• Bring
• Broadcast
• Budget
• Build
• Business
• Calculate
• Campaign
• Certify
• Chaired
• Change
• Chart
• Check
• Choose
• Clarify
• Classify
• Coach
• Collaborate
• Collate
• Collect
• Combine
• Communicate
• Compare
• Compile
• Complete
• Comply
• Compose
• Compute
• Conceptualize
• Conclude
• Condense
• Conduct
• Confer
• Configure
• Connect
• Conserve
• Consolidate
• Construct
• Consult
• Contact
• Continue
• Contribute
• Control
• Convert
• Convey
• Convince
• Coordinate
• Correspond
• Counsel
• Critique
• Cultivate
• Customize
• Decide
• Declare
• Decline
• Decorate
• Dedicate
• Define
• Delegate
• Deliver
• Demonstrate
• Depreciate
• Describe
• Design
• Detail Oriented
• Determine
• Develop
• Development
• Devise
• Diagnose
• Direct
• Dispatch
• Dispense
• Distribute
• Document
• Draft

E–H

• Edit
• Educate
• Effective
• Efficient
• Emphasize
• Encourage
• Energized
• Enforce
• Engineer
• Enhance
• Ensure
• Enthusiastic
• Establish
• Estimate
• Evaluate
• Examine
• Execute
• Expand
• Expedite
• Experience
• Explain
• Fabricate
• Facilitate
• Finance
• Focus
• Forecast
• Formulate
• Foster
• Fund
• Furnish
• Gain
• Generate
• Graduate
• Greet
• Guide
• Handle
• Help
• Hire
• Host

I–M

• Identify
• Illustrate
• Implement
• Improve
• Improvise
• Increase
• Index
• Influence
• Inform
• Initiate
• Initiative
• Innovate
• Inspire
• Install
• Institute
• Integrate
• Interact
• Interested
• Interview
• Introduce
• Investigate
• Itemize
• Join
• Justify
• Knowledge
• Launch
• Leadership
• Learn
• Lecture
• Lessen
• Lift
• Link
• Listen
• Maintain
• Manage
• Management
• Manipulate
• Map
• Market
• Measure
• Mediate
• Merge
• Mobilize
• Modify
• Monitor
• Motivate

N–S

• Negotiate
• Observe
• Obtain
• Open
• Operate
• Order
• Organize
• Originate
• Outpace
• Outperform
• Participate
• Passion
• Perform
• Persuade
• Plan
• Practical
• Prepare
• Present
• Prevent
• Printed
• Prioritize
• Priority
• Process
• Produce
• Professional
• Program
• Project
• Promote
• Propose
• Prospect
• Prove
• Provide
• Publicize
• Purchase
• Pursue
• Qualify
• Run
• Rate
• Reach
• Receive
• Recommend
• Reconcile
• Record
• Recruit
• Reduce
• Refer
• Refocus
• Regulate
• Reorganize
• Repair
• Replace
• Report
• Represent
• Research
• Reserve
• Resolve
• Respond
• Responsibility
• Restore
• Restructure
• Results
• Results-Oriented
• Retrieve
• Review
• Revise
• Revitalize
• Schedule
• Screen
• Search
• Secure
• Seize
• Select
• Send
• Serve
• Share
• Showcase
• Simplify
• Skill
• Solution
• Solve
• Sort
• Specialize
• Specify
• Sponsor
• Staff
• Standardize
• Start
• Succeed
• Suggest
• Summarize
• Supervise
• Supply
• Support
• Surpass
• Survey
• Sustain

T–Z

• Target
• Teach
• Team
• Team Player
• Test
• Timely
• Track
• Trade
• Train
• Transact
• Transcribe
• Transform
• Translate
• Transmit
• Transport
• Tutor
• Unite
• Update
• Upgrade
• Use
• Utilize
• Validate
• Value
• Verify
• View
• Volunteer
• Watch
• Weigh
• Witness
• Win
• Write
• Yield 

Related: Best Resume Writing Services

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 

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”
• Resume Power Adjectives

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

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. 

340+ Resume Action Verbs And Power Words [w/ Examples]

Resume Power Words for Teamwork and Communication

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

• 1. Advised
• 2. Advocated
• 3. Clarified
• 4. Corresponded
• 5. Defined
• 6. Gathered
• 7. Ignited
• 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:

• 12. Aided
• 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: 

• 20. Guided
• 21. Evaluated
• 22. Instructed
• 23. Mentored
• 24. Motivated
• 25. Regulated
• 26. Taught

• 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
• 58. Built
• 59. Condensed
• 60. Customized
• 61. Fashioned
• 62. Integrated
• 63. Modified
• 64. Patched
• 65. Piloted
• 66. Shaped
• 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. 

Resume Power Words for Problem Solving Accomplishments

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
• 88. Fixed
• 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. 

Resume Action Verbs for Research, Analysis, and Planning

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: 

• 144. Aided
• 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
• 159. Grew
• 160. Integrated
• 161. Lifted
• 162. Merged
• 163. Overhauled
• 164. Raised
• 165. Redesigned
• 166. Refined
• 167. Remodeled
• 168. Reorganized
• 169. Restructured
• 170. Revamped
• 171. Saved
• 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
• 186. Made
• 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. 

Resume Action Words to Use Instead of “Worked On”

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
• 207. Made
• 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:

• 217. Apply
• 218. Adopt
• 219. Deploy
• 220. Employ
• 221. Exert
• 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 
• 294. Keen 
• 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 
• 335. Calm 
• 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:

• Excellent 
• Go-Getter 
• Hard worker
• Strategic thinker
• Outside the box
• Responsible for
• Expert
• Innovative
• Specialized in
• Creative
• Synergized
• Go To
• Results-driven
• Team Player
• Detail Oriented
• Focused
• Ninja
• Super 
• Great
• 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 2023]