"Because even the smallest of words can be the ones to hurt you, or save you." -  Natsuki Takaya, bestselling author of graphic and comic novels

 

Words are very powerful - ask any politician running for office (or wants to stay in office). The wrong ones can wreck a campaign in a matter of minutes; the right ones can sway an undecided voter. Words also matter a great deal if you are looking for a job or want to succeed and advance in your career. No doubt you are aware how important a well-done resume and cover letter are to make yourself stand out in the crowd. 

 

One way to boost your resume and cover letter is to avoid clichés, words that are used so much they have virtually no meaning to employers. Examples of over-used words include:

Many of these were cited by hiring managers surveyed by Career Builder. The good news is that those who were surveyed provided words they would like to see as well, such as:  

If you are in the workplace now or going to interviews, spoken words are also critical.  American writer Napoleon Hill, famous for his book Think and Grow Rich, said: "Think twice before you speak, because your words and influence will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another." So true!

 

So what can you do to be sure to plant the success seed in others' minds?  Consider asking close friends to pay attention to how you talk with them - do you use slang a lot? Do you get to the point fairly quickly or do you go off on tangents? Does the word "like" tend to creep up (e.g., "she was, like, really mad")? Do you avoid interrupting others? The last question is critical in cultivating a positive reputation at work. Just as your words are important to you, it's good to remember that others feel the same way about theirs.

 

For more help with wording your resume and preparing to wow interviewers, check out the Workforce Development Center's programs and services . 

 

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