{ “@context”: “https://schema.org”, “@type”: “FAQPage”, “mainEntity”: [ { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “What are action words for a resume?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Action words (also called power verbs or action verbs) are strong, descriptive verbs that begin resume bullet points and describe your professional accomplishments. Examples include ‘spearheaded,’ ‘accelerated,’ ‘transformed,’ and ‘orchestrated.’ They replace weak phrases like ‘responsible for’ and help your resume stand out to recruiters and pass through ATS systems.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “How many action verbs should I use on my resume?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “You should start every bullet point with an action verb, meaning you’ll use 15-25+ action verbs on a typical resume. However, avoid using the same verb more than once in the same section. Variety demonstrates a range of skills and keeps recruiters engaged.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “Do action words help with ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems)?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Yes, action words significantly help with ATS optimization. Many job descriptions include specific action verbs as keywords. By matching these verbs in your resume, you increase your ATS score and the likelihood of passing the initial automated screening.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “Should I use past or present tense action verbs?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Use past tense action verbs (e.g., ‘Led,’ ‘Managed,’ ‘Achieved’) for previous positions. For your current role, you can use present tense (e.g., ‘Lead,’ ‘Manage,’ ‘Achieve’). The key is consistency within each job entry.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “What are the strongest action words for a resume?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “The strongest action words are specific, achievement-oriented, and matched to your industry. Top choices include: Spearheaded, Orchestrated, Transformed, Accelerated, Pioneered, Maximized, Exceeded, and Delivered. These words convey leadership, impact, and measurable results.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “Can I use the same action words for every job application?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “No, you should customize your action verbs for each job application. Scan the job description for specific verbs and skills, then incorporate those into your resume. This tailoring improves your ATS match rate and shows recruiters that you understand the role.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “What action words should I avoid on my resume?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Avoid weak, passive, or overused phrases like ‘Responsible for,’ ‘Worked on,’ ‘Helped with,’ ‘Tasked with,’ and ‘Duties included.’ Also avoid generic words like ‘Did’ or ‘Was.’ These phrases don’t convey impact and make your resume blend in with others.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “How do I pair action words with achievements?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Follow this formula: Action Verb + Task/Project + Quantifiable Result. For example: ‘Spearheaded digital marketing campaign that increased web traffic by 150% and generated $500K in new revenue.’ This structure shows what you did, how you did it, and the measurable impact of your work.” } } ] }