10 LinkedIn Profile Buzzwords to Stop Using Immediately

Updated on 2/24/2017 at 3:05 PM

If your LinkedIn profile boasts that you're a "highly certified expert" who is "passionate yet focused" with "strategic leadership skills," you are currently putting to sleep the very recruiters you hope to impress. Buzzwords like "excellent," "specialized," and "focused" have become so overused, they've lost their meaning altogether. According to LinkedIn, these are the top 10 most overused words to avoid including in your profile this year:

Specialized
Leadership
Passionate
Strategic
Experienced
Focused
Expert
Certified
Creative
Excellent

Let's face it: most people could claim to be "excellent" and "focused" — they're generic terms that are frequently used when specific descriptors would paint a more accurate and robust picture. It's all about details that are particular to your work history and accomplishments. While giving your profile a refreshing makeover for the new year, spend some time getting imaginative (not "creative!") with your word choice so your vibrant, fascinating self can shine through. After all, as the folks at LinkedIn point out, Cleopatra never whittled herself down to simply a "tenacious leader who remains agile in high-pressure situations." You're more than mere buzzwords, too.

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10 LinkedIn Profile Buzzwords to Stop Using Immediately

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