When it comes to crafting a resume or CV, the way you phrase your achievements and responsibilities can greatly impact your chances of landing an interview. It is essential to strike the right balance between professionalism and uniqueness to make your resume stand out. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive exploration of the formal and informal ways to express your skills, qualifications, and experience on your resume, along with numerous tips and examples to help you create a compelling document.
Table of Contents
1. Choose Concise and Impactful Language
Regardless of whether you opt for a formal or informal approach, using concise and impactful language is crucial. Be clear and direct in describing your achievements and responsibilities, using powerful action verbs to convey a sense of accomplishment. Avoid excessive jargon or buzzwords that may confuse or alienate readers.
2. Formal Language for Resumes
When aiming for a professional and formal tone on your resume, consider the following guidelines:
2.1 Utilize Strong Action Verbs
Begin each bullet point or statement with a strong action verb to convey your accomplishments and responsibilities. Here are some examples:
- Managed a team of 15 employees and successfully increased productivity by 20% within six months.
- Developed a new marketing strategy resulting in a 30% increase in sales revenue.
- Coordinated international conferences with over 100 attendees, ensuring seamless execution of events.
2.2 Use Formal Phrases and Terminology
Employers often appreciate the use of formal phrases and terminology that align with their industry or field. Here are a few examples:
“Implemented cost-saving measures that reduced operational expenses by 15%.”
“Utilized cutting-edge technology to streamline production processes.”
2.3 Quantify Achievements with Numbers and Metrics
Whenever possible, include specific numbers and metrics to quantify your achievements. This helps provide concrete evidence of your capabilities. Consider the following examples:
“Increased website traffic by 50% through the implementation of an SEO strategy.”
“Managed a budget of $500,000, optimizing resource allocation and achieving 10% cost savings.”
2.4 Highlight Professional Certifications and Degrees
Emphasize your professional certifications and degrees by listing them under the education section of your resume. This indicates your commitment to professional development and showcases your qualifications.
3. Informal Language for Resumes
If you want to infuse a touch of informality into your resume while maintaining professionalism, follow these guidelines:
3.1 Incorporate Authentic Language
Use words and phrases that reflect your personality and style, while still being appropriate for the specific industry or role. Ensure your language remains professional and focused on your skills and achievements. Here are some examples:
“Contributed creative ideas during brainstorming sessions, resulting in new marketing campaigns that resonated with the target audience.”
“Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to deliver outstanding results on high-priority projects.”
3.2 Include Relevant Soft Skills
Integrate soft skills that are relevant to the role you are applying for. These skills help hiring managers perceive your fit with the company culture. Consider incorporating skills like:
- Excellent communication skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Leadership qualities
3.3 Showcase Personal Projects or Side Hustles
If applicable, include personal projects or side hustles that demonstrate your passion and skills beyond your professional experience. These examples can help you stand out and pique the interest of potential employers.
Conclusion
When creating a resume, the way you phrase your achievements and responsibilities can greatly impact your chances of success. It’s crucial to find a balance between a formal and informal tone to make your resume unique yet professional. Utilize concise and impactful language, strong action verbs, formal phrases, and quantifiable achievements. Tailor your approach to the specific industry and role you are applying for. Remember, your resume is an opportunity to showcase your skills and qualifications, so take the time to craft it thoughtfully.
