Action verbs for your résumé
Start each bullet with what you did, then put a number in it. Verbs grouped by the kind of work, and a checker for the bullets you already have.
Check your bullets
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Verbs by what you did
Built or made something
Built · Designed · Developed · Created · Wrote · Launched · Set up · Drew · Produced
Made something better
Cut · Reduced · Improved · Automated · Simplified · Fixed · Rebuilt · Sped up · Streamlined
Led or organised
Led · Ran · Organised · Coordinated · Planned · Owned · Started · Scheduled · Trained
Worked with data
Analysed · Measured · Tracked · Tested · Modelled · Forecast · Reconciled · Audited · Found
Worked with people
Presented · Explained · Taught · Mentored · Negotiated · Persuaded · Interviewed · Wrote to · Resolved
Sold or grew something
Sold · Grew · Won · Raised · Signed · Opened · Renewed · Booked · Converted
Questions people ask
Do action verbs help with ATS?
Not directly: applicant systems match skills and job titles, not verbs. Verbs help the person who reads it next, because a bullet that starts with what you did is read in a second.
Can I use the same verb twice?
Yes, if it is the right word. Variety for its own sake leads to odd verbs like “spearheaded” for small tasks. Pick the plainest verb that is true.
Past or present tense?
Past tense for finished work and past jobs; present tense for your current job’s ongoing work. Keep each job consistent.
Check the whole résumé
The free ATS checker measures verbs and numbers across every bullet, plus contact details, headings and length.