Cut These Resume Fillers

You don’t want fillers in dog food or lunch meat – so why would you want then in your resume? Resume fillers are empty, generic words and phrases that take up space but don’t really say anything.

Your resume has one mission: to get you a job. So cut these fillers and add more substance:

I am seeking [fill in the blank] – The fact that you’re applying for a particular job speaks to your objective, so no need to be redundant. Use that space at the top of your resume for a skills-packed professional summary or profile, something that highlights why you’re the right person for the job.

Team Player – OK … so demonstrate it with a real-word example.

Experienced – But at what? Use examples.

Strong Work Ethic – Who wouldn’t say that? Everything on your resume should highlight what makes you uniquely suited for the job.

Detail-Oriented -- Again, who wouldn’t say that?

Hit Benchmarks – Show rather than tell. Use examples of benchmarks hit.

Written Communication Skills – Nice! Demonstrate that by drafting a resume free of fillers.

Duties: – A list of duties does not impress. A sampling of real-world accomplishments does.

Results-Driven – how so? Get specific.

References available on request -- This is a given – no need to waste a line to say it. If you have nothing else to add, just leave a little whitespace at the end of your resume.