Hiring managers scan resumes in under 10 seconds. Strong action verbs make your resume pop — weak, generic phrases do the opposite. This guide helps you identify power words that showcase impact and leadership.
Achieved Boosted Created Delivered Designed Developed Drove Enhanced Executed Generated Improved Increased Launched Led Managed Negotiated Optimized Orchestrated Oversaw Planned Reduced Spearheaded Streamlined Trained Upgraded
Responsible for Hard-working Go-getter Results-oriented Team player Detail-oriented Fast learner Excellent communication skills Self-starter Motivated
They show ownership and outcome. Instead of saying you “were responsible for” something, power verbs clarify what you did and what result you achieved.
❌ "Responsible for social media"
✅ "Led and executed a social media strategy, increasing engagement by 35% in 3 months"
Match verbs to the skills in the job description. For example, if a posting emphasizes project leadership, use verbs like “managed,” “orchestrated,” or “directed.” If it's an analytical role, try “analyzed,” “evaluated,” or “synthesized.”