action verbs for resume harvard

Malaps

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04-10-2024

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Power Up Your Resume: Action Verbs for Harvard-Level Impact

Landing a job at Harvard or any top-tier institution requires a resume that not only showcases your skills but also demonstrates your impact. Action verbs are the key to unlocking this level of persuasive communication.

What are Action Verbs?

Action verbs are dynamic words that describe what you accomplished. Instead of passively stating "I worked on a project," use a powerful verb like "led" or "managed" to communicate your leadership role.

Why are Action Verbs Important?

Harvard recruiters scan resumes for candidates who show initiative, results, and a clear understanding of their contributions. Using strong action verbs:

• Highlights your accomplishments: Instead of listing duties, you showcase tangible results.
• Impresses recruiters: Powerful verbs demonstrate your proactivity and effectiveness.
• Differentiates you from the competition: Standing out among highly qualified applicants is crucial.

Harvard-Approved Action Verbs:

To help you choose the right words, let's explore specific action verbs categorized by common resume sections.

Experience:

• Leadership: Led, Managed, Directed, Supervised, Orchestrated, Spearheaded, Motivated, Empowered.
• Project Management: Developed, Implemented, Designed, Launched, Streamlined, Organized, Executed, Prioritized, Coordinated.
• Communication & Collaboration: Collaborated, Communicated, Presented, Negotiated, Advocated, Facilitated, Trained, Mentored.
• Results & Impact: Increased, Improved, Reduced, Generated, Streamlined, Optimized, Achieved, Exceeded, Surpassed, Enhanced.

Example:

Instead of:

Assisted with research project on sustainable energy

Use:

Led a research project investigating sustainable energy solutions, resulting in a 15% increase in efficiency within the lab.

Tips for Using Action Verbs:

• Specificity is key: Don't just say "managed a team." Specify how you managed, what results you achieved, and what impact your management had.
• Vary your verbs: Avoid repeating the same verbs throughout your resume. Choose a variety of options from each category.
• Consider your audience: Tailor your verb choices to the specific job you're applying for. Research the company and position to ensure your verbs align with their values and priorities.
• Don't over-claim: Be honest about your contributions and avoid exaggeration.

Resources:

• Academia.edu: A platform for sharing research and academic papers. Search for articles using keywords like "resume writing," "action verbs," and "Harvard."
• Career Services: Many universities and colleges offer career services that can provide personalized resume feedback and guidance on choosing effective action verbs.

Conclusion:

Crafting a strong resume is crucial for a successful career. By utilizing impactful action verbs, you can communicate your abilities and achievements effectively, leaving a lasting impression on Harvard recruiters and securing the opportunity you deserve. Remember, it's not just about what you did, but how you did it and what impact you made.