Resume Clichés You Should Avoid

In order to stand out from the crowd of other job candidates, a job seeker's resume must avoid certain "resume killers" that could close doors instead of open them.  Below are some words and phrases that job seekers should avoid when creating their resume:

"I have a strong work ethic." - This is a horrible clichéd phrase that was exhausted during the 1990's. If you want your resume to appear fresh avoid using the phrase "strong work ethic."  Instead, highlight accomplishments at your former employers that demonstrate that you have a strong work ethic.

"I assisted with _____."  When job seekers use the word "assisted" it sounds like they were the "water boy" for the football team.  Instead talk about what you did exactly on the project.

"I have a proven track record." This is one phrase that will cause recruiters and employers to roll their eyes.  Anyone can declare that they have a proven track record; but most people fail to actually prove it.  Do yourself a favor and avoid declaring anything about yourself, instead actually prove it with concrete examples of how you brought value to former employers.

"I'm a team player." The phrase "team player" has become an annoying buzzword, much like "think outside the box" and it rings hollow to those who read resumes hundreds checkered with this phrase everyday. Instead of declaring that you're a team player, give specific examples of how you worked successfully with a team.