Dated, clichd, or generic expressions in job application documents detract from a candidate’s qualifications and can signal a lack of originality or understanding of the target role. Examples include terms like “hard worker,” “team player,” or “results-oriented,” which offer little concrete evidence of skills or accomplishments.
Strong resumes utilize action verbs and quantifiable achievements to demonstrate a candidate’s value proposition effectively. Avoiding weak and overused language allows applicants to present a more compelling and differentiated narrative, increasing the likelihood of securing an interview. This shift towards impactful language reflects a growing emphasis on data-driven evidence of professional success in contemporary hiring practices.