Using Highly on a Resume
'Highly' serves as an intensifier, amplifying the significance or degree of another quality or skill. For instance, being 'highly skilled' or 'highly regarded' boosts the impact of the subsequent term. On a resume, it adds an extra layer of emphasis, making your abilities or achievements stand out. However, use 'Highly' judiciously. Overuse can dilute its impact, and without concrete examples to back up such claims, it can seem exaggerated. To ensure authenticity, pair it with accomplishments that truly deserve this level of emphasis.
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Start MatchingStrong vs Weak Uses of Highly
Examples of Using Highly on a Resume
Strong
Highly skilled and results-oriented professional with over 10 years of experience in project management. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget, demonstrating a high level of efficiency and productivity. Highly adept at leading cross-functional teams and highly committed to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Weak
I am a highly experienced and highly educated individual with a highly impressive track record in the field of sales. I have highly developed skills in customer service and a highly keen eye for detail. I am highly motivated and highly dedicated to achieving highly successful outcomes in all tasks I undertake.
Strong
Weak
How Highly Is Commonly Misused
Highly skilled in communication
This statement is too generic and lacks specificity. It does not provide any evidence or examples of how the individual is skilled in communication. Instead, it is better to mention specific communication skills or experiences, such as "Proficient in delivering presentations to diverse audiences, resulting in increased client engagement and positive feedback."
Highly motivated and hardworking
While it may seem like a positive attribute, this statement is subjective and lacks concrete evidence. It does not provide any specific examples or achievements to support the claim. Instead, it is better to mention specific instances where motivation and hard work led to successful outcomes, such as "Consistently exceeded sales targets by 20% through proactive prospecting and persistent follow-ups, demonstrating a strong work ethic and motivation."
Highly organized and detail-oriented
Similar to the previous example, this statement is subjective and lacks specific evidence. It is a common phrase used by many job seekers, making it less impactful. Instead, it is better to provide specific examples or accomplishments that showcase organizational skills and attention to detail, such as "Implemented a new filing system that reduced document retrieval time by 50% and improved overall office efficiency."
When to Replace Highly with Another Synonym
Providing exceptional customer service:
Instead of using "Highly skilled in customer service," job seekers can use synonyms like "Exemplary," "Outstanding," or "Exceptional" to highlight their ability to go above and beyond in delivering excellent customer service. These alternatives convey a stronger sense of their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction.
Collaborating with cross-functional teams:
When describing their experience in working with teams from different departments or disciplines, job seekers can opt for synonyms such as "Collaborated," "Cooperated," or "Partnered." These terms emphasize their ability to effectively work together with others, fostering teamwork, communication, and the achievement of shared goals.
Adapting to change:
Rather than using "Highly adaptable," job seekers can use synonyms like "Flexible," "Versatile," or "Resilient" to showcase their ability to thrive in dynamic and ever-changing environments. These alternatives highlight their capacity to quickly adjust to new circumstances, embrace challenges, and maintain productivity and effectiveness.
Best Resume Synonyms for Highly
Elevated
Raised to a higher level or standard.
Extensive
Large in amount or scale; covering a vast area.
Excellent
Of the highest or finest quality.
Expertise
Deep knowledge or skill in a specific field.
Advanced
Moved forward in a position, skill level, or undertaking, showing progress.
Accomplished
Successfully completed tasks or projects showcasing notable skill, expertise, and proficiency.
How to Replace Highly with a Stronger, More Relevant Synonym
When it comes to refining your resume, it's important to understand that while 'highly' is a common adjective used to emphasize a skill or achievement, its usage should be deliberate and meaningful. Not every skill or accomplishment equates to being 'highly' proficient or successful.
Sometimes, the magnitude, proficiency, or significance of your skills or achievements might be better communicated with a different term. The word 'highly' can often be overused, making it less impactful.
As you explore ways to enhance the language on your resume, consider the depth and extent of your expertise or accomplishments. Were you exceptionally skilled in a certain area? Did you achieve outstanding results? Did you surpass expectations? Each of these situations might call for a different, more descriptive term.
Here are a few examples to help you replace 'highly' in a way that is both authentic and compelling, leading into the examples that will immediately follow.
Replacing Highly in Your Resume Summary
Using Highly
Highly skilled software engineer with a strong background in developing award-winning applications for a diverse clientele
Using a Strong Synonym
Exceptionally proficient software engineer with a robust background in creating award-winning applications for a diverse range of clients.
Replacing Highly in Your Work Experience
Using Highly
- Highly skilled in managing cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and within budget.
Using a Strong Synonym
- Proficient in orchestrating cross-functional teams, ensuring timely and cost-effective project delivery.