When a recruiter is screening resumes, they are likely to scan the resume briefly. You therefore need to make every word count.

To make an impact consider the following tips:

• Use bullet points and lists where appropriate.
• Use plain language. Use as few words as possible. If necessary, invest in a thesaurus to help you find the simplest and least complex phrases.
  
  Instead of this: "engaged in the operation of"
  Use this: "operated"
  

• Use achievement oriented words
  
  Instead of this: "Supervised five person sales team"
  Use this: "generated 25 % sales increase while monitoring performance of five person sales team"

• Avoid the first person. Cut out the use of "I" in your sentences, this will make them sound more powerful.
  
  Instead of this: "I demonstrated professionalism"
  Use this: "demonstrated professionalism in .."

• Don't be passive: use language that shows personal power.
  
  Instead of this: "I was involved with three major deals in China. I was required to research and prepare all materials for the bid as well as to accompany my MD on business trips, to assist in negotiations."
  Use this: "Involved in successful bids for three major China projects. Researched and prepared all bid materials and supported MD in negotiation stages."

However, don't be tempted to fill out your resume with fancy words in order to sound special.

Consider this phrase:

"Gifted sales professional with dynamic client presence. Exceptional track record."

Recruiters see through fancy words and tend to feel annoyed by them. In addition, the words are meaningless without evidence of performance. Overall, the fancy words detract from the main message.

Contributed by: