The networking website LinkedIn has shared the country's most overused words when it comes to professional self-promotion.
The list shows the 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.
"Specialised" takes first place, followed by "leadership" and "experienced". LinkedIn has consequently partnered with the biographer Christopher Sandford – who is 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 said 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, steer clear of the following:
1. Specialised
2. Leadership
3. Experienced
4. Passionate
5. Strategic
6. Excellent
7. Focused
8. Creative
9. Enthusiastic
10. Successful
*Rethinks entire CV*
