Networking website LinkedIn has shared the country’s most overused words when it comes to professional self-promotion. The site has also shared 10 worst offenders over the past 12 months, terms that should be avoided if you want to stand out among the site’s 21 million UK members.
LinkedIn partnered with the biographer Christopher Sandford, a well versed in articulating the achievements of others to offer advice on how to best sell yourself.
“The language we use says a lot about us, so it’s important to choose your words carefully, especially in a professional context,” Says Sandford. “Too often we hide behind buzzwords which don’t mean anything, whether out of a desire to keep things simple, or because we don’t feel confident talking about our work accomplishments.”
He added that if you are going to use a certain word, then make sure you back it up with an example that compounds your point. He also advised starting with a punchy opener to ensure you stand out.
If you’re in the process of updating your LinkedIn profile or CV, try not to use the following worsds:
1. Specialised
2. Leadership
3. Experienced
4. Passionate
5. Strategic
6. Excellent
7. Focused
8. Creative
9. Enthusiastic
10. Successful
