The best descriptive words to use in your CV

Your CV is your chance to sell yourself. But writing a standout CV is not a quick task. And hiring managers only look at your CV for around 6 seconds before moving on. Writing your key skills is one way to grab their attention. But you also need to put some thought into the words you use to describe yourself in your CV. And adjectives are the way to do that. When chosen carefully, adjectives can really help to sell yourself.

Let’s take a look at some good descriptive words for your CV.

Best adjectives for your CV

Adjectives for sales CVs

A sales CV should show you’re highly motivated and a self-starter. But sales isn’t for everyone. So employers want to know you have the drive and focus it takes to succeed in a tough industry.

• Self-starter
• Motivated
• Tenacious
• Resilient
• Target-driven
• Independent
• Thick-skinned
• Bold
• Disciplined
• Charismatic
• Persuasive

Adjectives for care worker CVs

Carers work with the most vulnerable people in society. And it’s a job that comes with a lot of demands and pressures. So it’s important to show you’re not afraid of hard work. And that you have a compassionate heart.

• Compassionate
• Caring
• Friendly
• Reliable
• Genuine
• Calm
• Amiable
• Supportive

Adjectives for IT CVs

IT is a highly logical and analytical field. IT professionals need to be able to work with technical information. And they  musn’t be afraid of solving a problem or two!

• Problem solving
• Analytical
• Logical
• Outside the box thinker
• Lateral thinker

Adjectives for customer service CVs

Customer service reps are the face of the business. You’re the first port of call for customers. So you need to show you enjoy working with people. And your communication skills need to be top notch!

• Strong communicator
• Sociable
• Patient
• Helpful
• Clear
• Organised

Adjectives for hospitality CVs

Hospitality is all about creating unforgettable experiences for people. The best hospitality workers are able to work under pressure and still keep their calm.

• Composed
• Energetic
• Flexible
• Adaptable
• Quick-paced
• Accommodating
• Vibrant
• Cooperative

Adjectives for warehouse CVs

Warehouse workers spend a lot of time working on their feet. They have strict processes to follow and must work as part of a team. 

• Focused
• Methodical
• Logical
• Practical
• Hands-on
• Pragmatic
• Thorough
• Dexterous

Adjectives for marketing CVs

Marketing professionals have a huge role to play in helping companies to grow. In a fast-moving world, the best marketing professionals are always one step ahead of the game.

• Creative
• Imaginative
• Forward-thinking
• Innovative
• Analytical
• Experimental
• Bold
• Resourceful
• Perceptive
• Quick-witted
• Inquisitive

Adjectives for leadership

Not everyone is born to be a leader. So employers look for certain leadership qualities. Leadership is about inspiring a team of people and getting everyone to work towards a common aim.

• Innovative
• Dynamic
• Accountable
• Influential
• Decisive
• Accomplished
• Inclusive
• Strategic
• Strong-willed
• Relentless
• Authentic
• Inclusive

Adjectives for communication 

Everyone should include communication skills in their CV. Whether you work with customers or work as part of a team, great communication is key.

• Direct
• Articulate
• Assertive
• Honest
• Polite
• Respectful
• Personable

Adjectives for work ethic

Always describe your work ethic in your CV. Employers want to know you’re committed to the job and will be reliable!

• Committed
• Diligent
• Passionate
• Determined
• Unrelenting
• Focused
• Dependable
• Reliable

Does your CV need an ‘About me’ section?

Every CV should have an ‘About Me’ section or a personal statement. This is 3-5 sentences at the top of your CV that describe 3 things:

1. Who you are
2. Your experience
3. What you’re looking for

Include key adjectives in your ‘About Me’ section. This is the first thing hiring managers will see, so keywords will help to catch their eye.

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