However, so many people don’t need that service.  They are quite capable of composing their own CV, application form or letter, but struggle with finding the correct words or phrases to:

• avoid constant repetition

• to accurately describe their responsibilities or achievements

• to provide interest to the reader

List of Words and Phrases

I have compiled a list of words and phrases (which is updated and added to on a regular basis) to assist.  

They are not categorised to specific industries or professions

Please use them with common sense – e.g. 

•  If you don’t like the word – find another (use Thesaurus)

•  Don’t put down things you can’t back up at interview

•  Check spellings (don’t just rely on the the “spell check”)

• conscientious

• confident

• methodical

• articulate

• qualified

• enthusiastic

• multi-skilled

• flexible

Key Phrases examples

• pleasant telephone manner

• excellent problem solving skills

• reduced costs

• willing to learn

• ambitious and enthusiastic

• budget management

   

• Just don’t say..... “I  have excellent IT skills" – Instead, expand -   list the packages you are fully experienced with and be ready at interview to talk about how and for what you use these packages in your current or previous jobs.

•  Just don’t say..... “able to produce in depth reports” – Instead, expand  – is it weekly, monthly and for presentation to whom and then be prepared at interview to discuss how you compile and present these reports

• Just don’t say..... “excellent presentation skills” – Instead, expand – is it to large audiences, small groups, customer sales presentations. Make sure you can practise what you preach at an interview.

• Just don’t say..... “responsible for setting budgets” – Instead, expand – to what value – is it for team, department or organisation and be prepared at the interview to answer how you go about compiling a budget and maybe for questions about what you do when budgets are exceeded or not met.

Think positively about your skills and achievements -

Example - Delivering Papers

Even for the person starting out in their career, thinking I have had no experience, you may have the qualities an employer is looking for: 

• I did the round for months – it was cold and wet some mornings, but I stuck with it! 

•  I turned up even on days I wasn’t feeling 100%
  (Both the above show that you were reliable)

• I covered for other people when they didn’t turn up or were off sick
  (Shows that you are helpful and adaptable)

• I was doing the paper round for money to save up for something special
  (Shows that you have intent and ambition)