Job application advice : Power words

Recruiters see numerous unremarkable applications. You can stand out from the crowd by using direct, positive and appropriate language.


Subheadings and bullets
A good way to highlight key information in a CV or personal statement is to use subheadings and bullet points. Subheadings should be linked to the organisation’s specific requirements. The first word in a bullet point should be an active verb such as ‘organised’ or ‘delivered’.

Be positive
Always describe your attributes and experiences in positive terms and avoid putting yourself down. The below lists show how some negative statements can be improved.

Negative statements
•I feel I am a good communicator.
•I believe in diversity and equal opportunities.
•During this experience I had to manage seven people.
•Even though I failed to achieve my target, I learned a great deal about managing projects.
•Some people have told me that I have good communication skills.
•I have had a few relevant experiences.
Expressing things more positively
•I am a good communicator.
•I am committed to diversity and equal opportunities.
•During this experience I successfully managed seven people.
•Through this experience I learned a great deal about project management.
•I have excellent communication skills.
•I have substantial relevant experience.
Themed paragraphs
Each paragraph in your cover letter, CV and application form should be short and focused on one message. In personal statements, link each paragraph to a specific job criterion.

Revise and edit
Review your text and make any necessary changes so it is clear, precise and convincing, and get someone else to look at it. That way, the employer is more likely to understand the message you want to put across.

Words to use
Think about the types of words and phrases you use to describe and explain your skills:

Experience
•Demonstrated skills in…
•Extensive academic/practical background in…
•Experienced in all aspects of…
•Knowledge of/experienced as/proficient in…
•Provided technical assistance to…
Ability
•Trained in…
•Proficient in/competent at…
•Expert at…
•Working knowledge of…
•Coordinated…
•Organised…
Success
•Promoted to…
•Succeeded in…
•Proven track record in…
•Experience involved/included…
•Achieved…
•Instrumental in…
•Delivered…
Responsibilities
•In charge of…
•Supervised/coordinated...
•Familiar with…
•Employed to/handle…
•Assigned to…
•Project managed…
Roles
•Analysed/evaluated…
•Established/created/designed…
•Formulated…
•Initiated…
•Managed…
•Presented…
Personal attributes
•Committed to…
•Confident…
•Enthusiastic user of…
•Thorough...
•Actively sought…


Source www.prospects.ac.uk