"Using 'Specified' On Your Resume" The term 'Specified' is a word that carries a certain level of precision and clarity in its meaning. Essentially, it refers to the act of identifying something in a clear and exact manner. It's a word that suggests meticulousness, attention to detail, and the ability to clearly define and articulate requirements or tasks. In the context of a resume, 'Specified' is often used to demonstrate one's ability to clearly define and execute tasks or projects. It's a term that recruiters often look for as it indicates that the candidate has experience in setting clear goals, defining requirements, and ensuring that tasks are completed as per the defined specifications. It communicates that you have been entrusted with tasks or projects where precision and clarity were paramount, and you have successfully delivered on those expectations. However, while 'Specified' is a precise term, it isn't always the most effective language to use on your resume. The word, while accurate, may not fully capture the breadth and depth of your skills and experiences. It may also be perceived as too technical or lacking in creativity. Therefore, it's beneficial to consider using other synonyms or more descriptive terms that can better articulate your abilities and achievements. By doing so, you can make your resume stand out, and give potential employers a more comprehensive understanding of your capabilities. For example, instead of saying you 'specified' project requirements, you might say you 'defined and implemented' them, which adds a layer of action and initiative to your role.
Tailor Your Resume Content to the Job Description
Specified tasks as per job requirements
This statement is too generic and does not provide any insight into the nature of the tasks or how they were executed. It would be more effective to describe the tasks in detail, such as "Managed and executed marketing campaigns as per job requirements, resulting in a 30% increase in brand awareness."Worked on specified projects
This phrase does not give any information about the projects or your role in them. Instead, it would be better to specify the projects and your contributions, such as "Led the development and implementation of a new customer relationship management system, improving customer retention by 15%."Met specified targets
While this statement shows that you met your targets, it doesn't provide any context or scale. A more impactful statement would be "Exceeded sales targets by 25%, generating an additional $500,000 in revenue."Followed specified procedures
This phrase is passive and doesn't highlight your skills or achievements. Instead, you could say "Implemented and improved operational procedures, increasing efficiency by 20%."Handled specified responsibilities
This statement is vague and doesn't give any specifics about your role or accomplishments. A better way to phrase this could be "Managed a team of 10 sales representatives, increasing team sales by 30%."Detailing technical skills:
When job seekers are detailing their technical skills, instead of using "Specified," they could use "Mastered," "Proficient in," or "Skilled in." These synonyms highlight their expertise and competence in a particular skill or tool, demonstrating their readiness to apply these skills in the job role.Describing responsibilities:
When outlining their responsibilities in a previous role, instead of "Specified," job seekers can use "Outlined," "Identified," or "Determined." These terms emphasize their ability to define and set their tasks, showing their initiative and ability to understand and meet job requirements.Presenting achievements:
When presenting their achievements, instead of using "Specified," job seekers can use "Achieved," "Accomplished," or "Realized." These alternatives underscore their success in reaching goals or completing tasks, highlighting their effectiveness and productivity.Find the Right Synonyms for Any Job
Frequently Asked Questions
The best replacement for 'Specified' on a resume could be 'Detailed'. For example, instead of saying "Specified project requirements", you could say "Detailed project requirements". This suggests a more thorough and meticulous approach to your tasks.
It's appropriate to use 'Specified' on your resume when you're detailing a role or responsibility that required you to define, identify, or set particular parameters or requirements. For example, "Specified technical requirements for software development projects" or "Specified design elements for marketing materials". This word demonstrates your ability to make precise decisions and provide clear instructions.
You can gauge if 'Specified' is relevant for your resume by considering if you've had roles where you were required to define, detail, or set particular standards or requirements. For instance, if you were a project manager who specified project objectives and deliverables, or a designer who specified materials and dimensions for a product, then 'Specified' would be a relevant and impactful word to use. Remember, the goal is to use precise language that clearly communicates your responsibilities and achievements.
