Using Make on a Resume
The term 'Make' is a versatile and commonly used word in the English language. It's a simple, yet powerful verb that signifies the act of creating, producing, or causing something to happen. In the context of a resume, 'Make' is often used to describe an individual's accomplishments or responsibilities in their previous roles. It's a word that communicates action and initiative, suggesting that the individual has been proactive and productive in their work.
However, while 'Make' is a useful word, it's also somewhat generic and overused in the realm of resumes. It's a word that many job seekers resort to, and as a result, it can lack the impact and specificity that recruiters and hiring managers are looking for. The word 'Make' can sometimes fail to adequately convey the depth and breadth of an individual's skills, experiences, and accomplishments.
For these reasons, it's often beneficial for job seekers to consider using synonyms for 'Make' on their resumes. By doing so, they can more effectively highlight their unique abilities and achievements, and make their resumes stand out from the crowd. Using different words can also help to create a more engaging and compelling narrative about an individual's career journey, which can ultimately increase their chances of landing their desired job.
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Start MatchingStrong vs Weak Uses of Make
Examples of Using Make on a Resume
Strong
"Accomplished project manager with over 10 years of experience in the tech industry. Proven ability to make strategic decisions that drive team productivity and project success. Known for making innovative solutions that streamline processes and increase efficiency. Seeking to leverage these skills to make a significant impact at a forward-thinking company."
Weak
"Worked as a project manager for 10 years. I make decisions for the team and make things work better. I want to make a difference at a new company. I like to make things happen and make sure everything is done right."
Strong
- Made strategic decisions that led to a 20% increase in company revenue.
- Implemented changes that made our production process 15% more efficient.
- Made significant contributions to team projects, leading to successful outcomes and client satisfaction.
Weak
- Made coffee for office staff every morning.
- Made copies of documents for team meetings.
- Made sure the office was clean at the end of the day.
How Make Is Commonly Misused
"Made sales calls to potential clients"
This statement is too generic and does not provide any specific information about the sales calls made or the outcomes achieved. It is better to provide details about the number of calls made, the conversion rate, or any specific achievements resulting from these calls. For example, "Initiated and successfully closed 50+ sales calls per week, resulting in a 30% increase in new client acquisitions."
"Made improvements to the company's website"
This statement lacks specificity and does not highlight the nature of the improvements made. It is better to provide specific details about the changes implemented and the impact they had. For instance, "Revamped the company's website by redesigning the user interface, optimizing loading speed, and implementing SEO strategies, resulting in a 50% increase in organic website traffic."
"Made decisions regarding project timelines"
This statement does not provide any context or specific details about the decisions made or their impact. It is better to provide more information about the decision-making process, the factors considered, and the positive outcomes achieved. For example, "Led a cross-functional team in analyzing project requirements, determining realistic timelines, and successfully delivering projects ahead of schedule, resulting in a 15% increase in overall project efficiency."
When to Replace Make with Another Synonym
Creating something new
Instead of using "Make," job seekers can use synonyms like "Innovate," "Develop," or "Design" to highlight their ability to create something new. These alternatives convey their creativity, problem-solving skills, and ability to think outside the box.
Generating revenue
When describing sales or business development experience, job seekers can opt for synonyms such as "Generate," "Increase," or "Drive" to emphasize their ability to bring in revenue. These terms showcase their sales skills, ability to identify opportunities, and drive for results.
Improving processes
Instead of using "Make," job seekers can use synonyms like "Enhance," "Optimize," or "Streamline" to showcase their ability to improve processes. These alternatives highlight their problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and commitment to efficiency.
Best Resume Synonyms for Make
Created
Brought a new concept, item, or project into existence.
Developed
Enhanced or refined a skill, idea, or product over time.
Produced
Created, generated, or brought forth tangible or intangible outcomes.
Built
Constructed, developed, or established a particular structure or concept.
Generated
Produced or created something, typically as a result of a process.
Established
Successfully set up or founded an initiative, system, or organization.
How to Replace Make with a Stronger, More Relevant Synonym
Delving further into resume enhancement, it's crucial to understand that while 'make' is a versatile term, its usage should be precise and meaningful. Not every creation or production-driven task equates to "making". Sometimes, the complexity, significance, or essence of your contribution might be better articulated with a different term.
As you explore ways to refine the language on your resume, consider the context and impact of your 'making'. Did you construct a project? Develop a strategy? Formulate a plan? Each of these scenarios might call for a different, more descriptive term.
When you're looking to replace 'make' on your resume, think about the specific nature of your role. Were you the architect of a new system? The author of a successful proposal? The originator of a groundbreaking idea? Each of these roles involves 'making' but in a much more specific and impactful way.
Here are a few examples to help you replace 'make' in a way that is both authentic and influential.
Replacing Make in Your Resume Summary
Using Make
Experienced sales manager with a 10-year track record who consistently makes significant contributions to the team, resulting in a 30% increase in sales in the last quarter
Using a Strong Synonym
Experienced sales manager with a 10-year track record who consistently delivers substantial contributions, driving a 30% surge in sales in the last quarter.
Replacing Make in Your Work Experience
Using Make
- Make daily reports to summarize sales and inventory status.
Using a Strong Synonym
- Compile comprehensive daily reports, providing critical insights into sales trends and inventory status.
