Effective writing styles
Create a professional resume with your 'personal voice'. Experienced Human Resources professionals, who are likely to receive your application, can usually tell when you've based your application on a template.
Proactive language
Using proactive keywords can help you effectively communicate those of your personal characteristics that an employer seeks. Find keywords in the position description. Describe relevant information from the last five years or so. Action verbs make an impact. Consider the following list:
Accelerated | Collaborated | Edited |
Identified | Researched | Allocated |
Concluded | Encouraged | Organised |
Reviewed | Advised | Co-operated |
Initiated | Persuaded | Revived |
Attained | Expedited | Influenced |
Performed | Strengthened | Delegated |
Facilitated | Interpreted | Produced |
Balanced | Devised | Fashioned |
Launched | Sustained | Budgeted |
Directed | Finalised | Recorded |
Upgraded | Built | Displayed |
Moderated | Reported | Validated |
Coordinated | Generated | Motivated |
Represented | Wrote | Negotiated |
Implemented | Estimated | Developed |
Assessed | Submitted | Recommended |
Marketed |
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Resume employer dislikes
Though each individual employer will have their unique likes and dislikes regarding formatting, style and content, research has shown that there are particular things they do not like:
- Poorly researched and untailored resumes
- Poorly written resumes
- Achievement certificates from high school
- Overuse of glowing adjectives
- Standard resumes templates
Contact
- ANU Careers & Employability
- +61 2 6125 6307
- Send email
- Careers and Employability website