When it comes to CV buzzwords to avoid, be cautious with terms like “hard-working,” “passionate,” and “go-getter,” which are often overused and fail to differentiate you from other candidates. These buzzwords are generic and provide little insight into your actual skills or achievements. Instead, focus on showcasing your abilities with specific examples or measurable accomplishments to present a clearer, more compelling picture of your qualifications and contributions.

Here’s a longer list of common CV buzzwords that are better avoided:

  • Communicative
  • Creative
  • Detail-oriented
  • Driven
  • Dynamic
  • Experienced
  • Motivated
  • Results-oriented
  • Team player
  • Think outside the box

If you’re struggling to describe your skills and accomplishments, consider using a dedicated CV builder like LiveCareer. It provides pre-written content and examples to help you craft a stronger CV.

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Our editorial team has reviewed this article for compliance with LiveCareer’s editorial guidelines. It’s to ensure that our expert advice and recommendations are consistent across all our career guides and align with current CV and cover letter writing standards and trends. We’re trusted by over 10 million job seekers, supporting them on their way to finding their dream job. Each article is preceded by research and scrutiny to ensure our content responds to current market trends and demand.