As we know, words have a lot of power. If you want to communicate well with others, you must be able to speak and express yourself clearly. And when it comes to a resume, carefully chosen words can make the difference between getting the interview or getting passed over.
- Go beyond typical “action” verbs. When it comes to putting together the resume and the cover letter, skip the tried and true and overused. “Managed,” “established,” “performed” and “defined” have become resume staples that have lost their punch. Instead, use verbs that demonstrate success, such as “improved,” “increased/decreased” or “reduced.” These say you’ve accomplished something and made a difference. They show you’ve somehow added to the company’s progression.
- Know your purpose. Before writing anything — a cover letter, an email, a blog post — think about your audience. You also need to think about your role: Are you writing as a prospective employee? A potential customer? Finally, consider what you’re writing, so you can strike the proper tone. An email to find out information from a colleague may sound quite different from a formal proposal for new business. You can find samples on the internet if you’re unsure of how writing should look and sound. And it never hurts to have a trusted fellow writer look it over.
- Make your message clear. While you may want to sound “smart,” if your writing gets bogged down by long, complex sentences, you’ll lose your reader quickly. So, if you’re writing a cover letter, use those action verbs and get to the point of why you want the job and why you deserve it. Before sending an email, double check for potential misunderstandings. If someone asks for a specific response, answer the question(s) asked. Practice making your writing concise yet clear.
Improved writing skills will improve your communication. Next time you need communication tips, talk to the experts at Medical Professionals.
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