sample cover letter describing yourself

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How to Show Your Personality in a Cover Letter

Write a Unique Cover Letter

Avoid clichés, try a creative first sentence, make a connection, think of unique examples.

• Show You’ll Fit the Company Culture

Tailor Your Tone to Fit the Industry

• Keep It Professional

Don’t Go Negative

More cover letter examples.

Hiring managers read dozens, if not hundreds, of applications for every job they post. If you want to get the job, you have to stand out. It’s important to show the hiring manager not only that you are qualified, but also that you are the best candidate for the position.

One way to get your application noticed is to write a unique, engaging cover letter that shows not only your qualifications but also your personality. Go beyond some of the clichéd, formulaic language found in many letters.

If you make your personality stand out in your letter, the hiring manager will more likely give your application a second look.

Of course, there is also such a thing as putting too much personality in your letter. You want to remain professional, and focus on what makes you an ideal candidate. Find the right balance between showing your personality and being professional in your cover letter, and you will be on your way to a job interview.

The best way to show who you are to the company is to avoid writing one generic cover letter for every job listing . Instead, tailor your letter to the specific job and company.

You can write a targeted cover letter in a number of ways:

• Include keywords from the job listing in your letter.
• You can also reference the company itself–for example, mention a particular success the company has had, or explain why you are interested in working for the company.
• Perhaps most importantly, send your letter to a specific person , if possible.

If you have to, do some digging to find the name of the hiring manager, and address your letter to them.

Avoid the phrase “ To whom it may concern ” unless you can't find a contact. It's important to do your best to show a hiring manager that you have taken the time to write a unique cover letter for the specific job.

One of the best ways to avoid sounding like everyone else in your cover letter is to leave out some of the most overused phrases in cover letters. For example, don’t say you are a “hard worker” or that you “go above and beyond.” Try to find unique ways to explain who you are. One way to do this is to focus on particular examples —show them who you are, rather than tell them.

So many cover letters start with the sentence, “I am applying for X position.” While this is a fine way to start, the hiring manager has likely seen this sentence hundreds of times. Try starting with a more engaging first sentence (or first sentences) that shows who you are.

You might express why you are passionate about the job or the company. For example, you could start, “I have always been a storyteller. As a child, I would write countless stories about princes and princesses. Now, I have turned my passion for storytelling into a career in marketing.” Or, “When I first researched your company for a project in a business class over five years ago, I became inspired by your mission to provide low-cost tech solutions.”

A great “hook” will keep the hiring manager reading and will show him or her a bit about why you are a good fit for the job and company.

If you know anyone at the company, or if someone at the company referred you to the job , mention this early on in your cover letter (ideally in the first couple of sentences).

This humanizes you, and makes you seem more like you are already a part of the company culture . It also shows that someone in the company already thinks you are qualified for the job.

Remember that a cover letter should not simply restate your resume. While your resume lists your qualifications, your cover letter goes deeper, providing examples of times you demonstrated particular skills and abilities necessary for the job.

One way to show your personality is to include some unique, even surprising, examples that demonstrate your skills. For example, if you are applying for a job that requires organizational skills, you might mention how you accurately manage and process dozens of monthly shipments from your Etsy account. These kinds of examples are particularly useful if you do not have much relevant work experience.

Of course, only include examples that are relevant—they need to connect back to a skill or trait necessary for the job.

Show You’ll Fit in With the Company Culture

Hiring managers want to know not only that you are qualified, but also that you will fit in with the company culture. Before writing your letter, research the organization. Check out the company’s website, and talk to anyone you know who works there. Then you can mention ways that you might fit into the culture.

For example, if you know they do a lot of after-work team sports, you might briefly mention at the end of the letter that you would love to put your pitching skills to good use.

Some job listings also give you a peek into the company culture . For example, if the listing itself is very silly or funny, feel free to add a little humor to your letter, if that feels natural.

Similarly, you can tailor your letter to fit the personality of the industry. If you are applying for a corporate job, for example, you might want to write a more traditional cover letter. You can still include some personal examples, and maybe a catchy first sentence, but you should avoid too much humor or zaniness.

If you are applying for a job in an industry that is a bit more informal—say, a tech startup company—you can get a little bit more creative. Your tone can be more lighthearted, and you can include some creative examples.

If you’re applying for a job in a visual, creative field, consider showing your personality through the form of your letter. You might include bullet points , or even a visual (such as an infographic). You can include some of these nontraditional elements in your resume too.

Keep It Professional 

No matter how much of your personality you decide to put into your cover letter, keep the letter professional. It needs to be well written and error-free. It also needs to stay focused on the main topic: why you are a terrific fit for the job.

Some people try to add personality by using phrases like “I know you hate reading cover letters, but…” or “I know I am one of many candidates, but…” Avoid any phrases that sound negative.

Also, avoid phrases that imply you know how the hiring manager feels. You don’t actually know whether he or she hates reading cover letters, and you don’t know how many candidates applied for the job. Focus on the positive, and don’t make assumptions about the hiring manager, the job, or the company.

Sample Cover Letter Showing Personality

Sara Jones 7 Chestnut Street Anytown, Anystate Zip Code 555-555-5555 email@email.com

January 5, 2019

John Wilson Editorial Director XYZ Magazine 5 Main Street, Suite 1 Anytown, Anystate Zip Code

Dear Mr. Wilson,

I’m writing this cover letter to you at 11 pm. Why? Because I just finished speaking with my former coworker, Jane Smith, who tells me that you’re hiring for the position of editorial assistant, and I wanted to apply immediately.

Jane will tell you that I’ve been eager to apply for a role at XYZ Magazine since we worked together, first at our student magazine, where I was managing editor and she was editor in chief, and then at ABCmag.com as assistants. I’ve always valued XYZ’s showcase for diverse and emerging voices, as well as its commitment to fact-checking and copyediting.

In fact, my desire to work for your magazine informed my studies at Large Public University. I took several copyediting and multimedia graphic design courses in my last year and have continued taking classes after graduation.

In addition to my background in multimedia design and copyediting – and my passion for XYZ – I have:

• Three years of experience brainstorming, pitching, and assigning stories
• Excellent research and reporting skills
• Extensive experience analyzing traffic trends with Google Analytics
• Expert-level social media management skills
• An intense love affair with the Oxford Comma (which I know you share)

I’ve also had a few bylines on XYZ over the years:

I’d love to speak with you about the role. Please feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or email@email.com to discuss it or to arrange an interview.

Thanks, and best regards,

Sara Jones [signature for hard copy]

Review cover letter examples for many different types of jobs and get templates you can use to write your own letters.

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Best Words To Describe Yourself (For Resumes, Cover Letters, and Interviews)

• How To Write A Resume
• Free Resume Templates
• How To Build A Resume
• Specific Resume Words
• Action Verbs On A resume
• Words To Describe Yourself
• Resume Outline
• How To Make A Resume
• How To Make A Resume On Word
• How To Write A Resume Profile

Using the right words can make a huge difference in a resume, cover letter , or interview. You only get a show time to sell yourself as a candidate, meaning that picking the right descriptors can make a huge difference. Make sure to use strong adjectives, action words, power words, and language specific to your industry when describing yourself.

Word choice in a resume and cover letter are extremely important, as they’re both short documents that need to impress a hiring manager in a hurry. If you’re writing a resume, cover letter, or going to an interview and want to know the right adjectives to use, then keep reading.

Key Takeaways

You can use action verbs, industry-specific skill words, and powerful adjectives to describe yourself in resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

Stay away from buzzwords, slang terms, and hyperbolic descriptors.

Incorporate keywords from the job description into your resume and cover letter in order to get past ATS filters and to a real person.

Power words are words that evoke an emotional reaction. They’re often used in marketing techniques, but can also be useful for resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

The best words to use to describe yourself

Tips for using power words in your resume, tips for incorporate power words into your cover letter, how to answer “how would you describe yourself” at a job interview, example answers to “how would you describe yourself”, resume-killing phrases to avoid, best words to describe yourself faqs, ask the experts.

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It’s important to use evocative words when describing your personality, skills, or accomplishments. You have to make sure you don’t go overboard, but be sure to use active voice and powerful adjectives. You want to sound proactive and results-oriented.

Emphasize using these types of words:

Strong verbs. On your resume, you want to make sure that you start your sentence with a verb, and the stronger the better.

For instance: Arranged and organized weekly team meetings.

Rather than: Responsible for arranging and holding weekly meetings.

The first once sounds much more proactive and punchier, emphasizing the active part of your duties. A well-written cover letter will prioritize stronger verbs as well, as will an interviewer . For instance, replace commonly used verbs with stronger one, such as:

Change cut costs to decreased, streamlined, economized, reduced expenses, or controlled costs

Replace led with: orchestrated, conducted, directed, or spearheaded

Created with designed, crafted, developed, formulated, or conceptualized

Boosted with increased, accelerated, drove, improved, or optimized

Improved with advanced, enhanced, increased, or strengthened

Trained with facilitated, educated, instructed, taught, guided, or coached

Industry skill words

If you want to catch a recruiter ’s attention, consider what industry you’re in. There are certain skills or keywords that show your expertise in a particular industry and are likely to be skills that hiring managers are looking for. It also shows that you’re familiar with the skills and expertise required in the job you’re applying for.

Here are a few examples:

Sales: relationship building, negotiation, persuasive communication, prospecting, closing, territory development

Management: leadership, supervisory skills, coaching, mentoring

Marketing: SEO, conversion optimization, email marketing, content marketing

Accounting: taxation compliance, automatic data processing (ADP), reconciliation, accounts payable, accounts receivable , return on assets

Project management: budget management, proposal writing, compliance, vendor management, risk mitigation

Administration: attention to detail, creating macros, confidentiality, Microsoft Office suite, scheduling

Engineering: quality control , troubleshooting, materials management, research and development, systems integration

Web development: graphic design, user experience, e-commerce, web design, front end/back end, Java, HTML/CSS

Finding these industry-related keywords is easier than you think. Just do a quick Google search for the job openings in that industry. Read the job descriptions and look for any keywords that stand out. Jot down any that describe the qualifications and skills that you have.

Or, even better, identify keywords from a specific job description. Then include these keywords in your resume. When you know what your potential employers are looking for , it’s easy to reverse engineer your resume to show you are a perfect match for their needs.

Powerful Adjectives

When you are writing your resume you want to come across as a rock star, but not sound like a commercial. You need to strike that perfect balance between strong and enticing and blatantly promotional. Choosing the right adjectives for your resume summary statement and the body of your resume will help you find that sweet spot.

Employers are looking to attract and retain top talent. Leadership shows that you have initiative and can drive results for their organization.

You don’t want to use the word leadership over and over. You want to vary it a bit. Here are some words to describe your leadership qualities. Below are a couple of examples. Leadership Adjectives:

Authoritative

Goal-Oriented

Teamwork Adjectives:

Deadline Driven

Detail Oriented

Communication Skills

Collaborative

Cross-functional

Team-player

Using power words, strong verbs, and powerful adjectives are a great way to catch a recruiter’s attention — so long as you don’t overdo it. There are ways that you can incorporate strong language into a resume more effectively, and here are tips to writing up an excellent resume.

Be concise. Short pithy sentences beat longer sentences. Simple direct sentences have more power.

Keep bullet points to one line. Try not to have bullet points wrap around. Shorten them to one line if possible.

Eliminate any widows. A widow is a single word that is wrapped around and is alone on the next line. Don’t do this:

Spearheaded initiative to go green and eliminate delivery truck gas emissions by August 2021

Include ATS friendly words. You may have the best resume in the world, but if your resume is not ATS-friendly , it may never be seen by the potential employer. ATS stands for applicant tracking system and is the robot filter that companies use to handle large amounts of resumes — you need to make it past the filter to be seen.

If you want to get your resume seen, you’ll want to include the right ATS keywords. You write resumes both for people and for the applicant tracking system. Many bigger companies scan and search through resumes pulling top applicants to the top. If your resume doesn’t make it through the ATS system, it may never be seen by a recruiter or hiring manager.

The keywords that the ATS system checks for are determined by the future employer. That’s why it’s important to closely read a job description, look for keywords, and include these keywords in your resume.

Cover letters are where you showcase both your writing skills and other interests and skills that don’t fit well into your resume. That means that it’s your employer’s first introduction to you as more than just a list of skills. Here are some ways to use power words to ensure you have an engaging cover letter.

Focus on the opening line . The first line of the cover letter is where you can hook your reader . Make sure that it’s powerful and gives them an idea of why you’re interested in the job. Don’t be afraid to be enthusiastic, so long as you maintain professionalism.

Don’t just rehash your resume. Your cover letter isn’t just your resume in paragraph form. Make sure to include skills and interests that aren’t in the cover letter. Once again, pay attention to industry skills, and the verbs and adjectives you use.

Showcase your passion. Part of a cover letter’s job is making you interesting. Don’t list any interesting thing about yourself — try to make it relevant to the job. But beyond that, draw in whatever passion or interest you have and make it applicable to the job you’re applying for.

Add a call to action. Don’t forget to add a call to action. This can be as simple as saying you look forward to hearing from them, or it can be that you are excited to discuss your qualifications in an interview. But make sure to use strong verbs and active voice.

Make sure it’s ATS friendly. Not every ATS will scan cover letters, but that does’t mean that you should overlook the importance of keywords. Make sure to put both industry specific keywords as well as ones listed on the job description. If the ATS does scan your cover letter, it’ll show you to be eminently qualified.

It’s always difficult to balance being underprepared for an interview and coming off overly scripted. That means that you need to consider what you know about the position and the company and come up with good off-the-cuff answers, which is a difficult skill to master. But here are some ways to help you answer this question.

Get to the point and stay relevant. It can be easy to go off on a tangent when this question comes up. Get straight to the point and give one or two personality traits that showcase the professional skills you feel the employer values most.

Be honest. Of course, it’s not just about telling the interviewer what you think they want to hear. You’re not doing anyone any favors by lying about your personality or work style . Answer honestly so that both you and the hiring manager can decide whether the job is a good fit for you.

Pick universally likeable traits. Words like “authoritative” or “tolerant” might be positive to some, but others might read negative traits into them. Instead, stick with personal qualities that everyone can agree are positive, like “collaborative,” “curious,” or “diligent.”

Give context. This is the most important part of your answer. It’s not enough to simply rattle off a few adjectives and call it a day. The interviewer will appreciate a story in which the descriptive words come to life.

For example, if you describe yourself as persistent, describe a professional situation in which your persistence paid off with fantastic results.

I would describe myself as a team player who always puts big-picture objectives over personal gain. When I was working on a design project with other graphic designers, we realized late in production that there a number of small, difficult-to-ingrain elements that we failed to implement. While it was a group mistake, I took up the extra work to make sure that the other designers could start work on the client’s next project. That client ended up being impressed with our attention to detail and remains a customer to this day.

Persistence is what sets me apart. When I had a dream for a social media marketing campaign, I worked tirelessly at it. For months, we saw no traction as posts went un-shared and engagement was rock bottom. While I was by no means an expert on this part of digital marketing, I made it a goal to seek out advice and study up on best practices. After six months and countless trials and errors, I was able to earn us over 15,000 subscribers and engagement had gone up by over 1000%. When I know an idea is a winner, I’ll stop at nothing to make it a reality.

My biggest asset is my creativity, and it’s a word my former supervisor used to describe me a lot. We once had a project that involved coding multiple landing pages with similar assets. When I saw that this was going to be a long-term project, I took a few hours to write a Python script that could automate a lot of the grunt work while ensuring consistency. Nobody had approached the problem that way or indicated that this was a possible solution, but my manager was impressed. She credited this creative idea as saving over $10,000 in hours of labor.

As an executive assistant , I find that organization is the trait that defines me in my professional life. When you have a boss who handles dozens of client accounts worth over $1M, you need to make sure that each and every client is receiving the attention they need, when they need it. By creating a master spreadsheet that included all important information, and condensing that master list into highly readable notes for the VP of sales, I was able to streamline client meetings and account management.

You know the feeling you get when your parents try to use phrases to be cool? Like when your mom is hanging out with you and your friends and says something is “sick”. It’s kind of icky, inappropriate, and disgusting. That’s how hiring managers feel when you use buzzwords on a resume.

Are resume buzzwords worth it ? Many of these phrases were cool in their day, but now, these cliches have seriously lost their staying power and it’s time to retire them.

Are you guilty of using any of the following outdated terms? Here are the resume buzzwords and things to avoid putting on a resume .

If you don’t want to make recruiters cringe, explain what you mean in engaging conversational language. Don’t lean on these overused terms.

How do you describe yourself in a resume?

You describe yourself in a resume by using action words, industry-specific skills, and powerful adjectives throughout it. By making the most of the words you use to describe your goals and accomplishments, you can give hiring managers a solid understanding of who you are and what you’re about.

What are three words to describe yourself for a job?

Three words to describe yourself for a job are “motivated,” “reliable,” and “strategic.” There are plenty of other words out there to describe you as well, but these are likely to please almost any employer (just make sure they actually describe you before you use them).

How can I describe myself in one word?

You can describe yourself in one word by choosing a word that can be applied to you in many situations. For example, “tenacious” and “positive” are both words that you can exemplify in a variety of settings.

What are good action words to use on a resume?

Good action words to use on a resume include words like “achieved,” “conducted,” and “assisted.” Use stronger words that evoke more specific meanings, and avoid more bland terms like “managed” or “worked on.”

University of Colorado Boulder – Action Verbs to Use on Your Resume

Harvard Business Review — How to Respond to “So, Tell Me About Yourself” In a Job Interview

Forbes — 34 Words and Phrases That Scream ‘I’m a Leader’ on Resumes

What tips would you give to optimize a resume?

Bill Gutches The Path To Inkc

In an Overview or Value Proposition, use power verbs to start each bullet or statement and be sure to quantify the amount of benefit your client / employer received as a result of your work.

Make sure the Start and Stop dates for each Employer or Contract are contiguous: that there are no gaps in the work timeline.

Create a unique resume with appropriate key phrases for each application so that the words in the resume match as closely as possible to the job description you are applying for.

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Hope Stebbins is an experienced writer and editor within the field of finance and contracts, sales, and business operations. She combines operational analysis with creativity to develop compelling written content. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Eastern University.

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.

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Describing Yourself: 5 Perfect Examples for 2024

As humans, it is essential for us to accurately describe ourselves in different scenarios. Whether it is for a job application or a social media profile, a clear and precise self-description can make a significant impact. In this article, we will explore the key elements one should consider when describing themselves and the different types of descriptions that can be provided.

Being able to describe oneself effectively allows individuals to showcase their strengths and unique qualities. It can help in creating an impressive first impression and can provide insight into one’s personality traits and values.

When crafting a self-description, one should consider elements such as their skills, experiences, personal qualities, and achievements. It is essential to strike a balance between highlighting the strengths and being humble. Employers and potential connections are interested in knowing what sets an individual apart and what they can offer.

There are different types of self-descriptions that one can provide depending on the context. A professional self-description, a personal self-description, or a creative self-description, among others. Each type requires specific elements and should be tailored to suit the intended audience.

In the next sections, we will explore the different types of self-descriptions and provide examples of perfect self-descriptions that can inspire you in crafting your own.

Personality Descriptions

When it comes to describing yourself, one crucial aspect is your personality type. So in this section, we’ll cover some helpful tips on how to create an accurate and compelling personality description.

Overview of Personality Types

There are numerous personality typing models out there, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Big Five personality traits, and the Enneagram. Each model differs in the specific traits and categories they include, but they all aim to identify patterns in individuals’ behaviors, thoughts, and emotions.

Understanding your personality type can help you better understand yourself and how you interact with others. While no personality type is inherently better or worse than others, knowing your type’s strengths and weaknesses can help you optimize your personal and professional relationships.

Identifying Your Personality Traits

To craft an authentic personality description, you need to have a clear understanding of your personality traits. Start by reflecting on what comes naturally to you and what challenges you. Consider how you process information or make decisions, whether you prefer working alone or in groups, and how you respond to stress.

You can also take personality assessments based on different typing models to gain more insights into your strengths, weaknesses, and preferences. While these tests aren’t foolproof, they can offer useful starting points for self-reflection and self-improvement.

Crafting a Personality Description

Once you have a good grasp of your personality traits, it’s time to craft a personality description that accurately represents you. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• Be honest and transparent about who you are
• Avoid stereotyping or generalizing people with similar traits
• Use vivid language and specific examples to illustrate your traits
• Consider how your personality traits align with your personal and professional goals and values
• Seek feedback from trusted friends or colleagues to ensure your description resonates with others

A well-crafted personality description can not only help you showcase your unique strengths and qualities but also connect with like-minded individuals.

Examples of Personality Descriptions

To give you a sense of what a personality description might look like, here are five hypothetical examples based on different personality types:

The Visionary – Creative, driven, and future-oriented, the Visionary enjoys imagining bold new possibilities and pushing boundaries. They thrive when given the freedom to experiment and innovate, whether on their own or as part of a team.

The Guardian – Dependable, responsible, and detail-oriented, the Guardian excels at executing plans and keeping things running smoothly. They take pride in their work and value stability and consistency.

The Explorer – Curious, adaptable, and spontaneous, the Explorer loves experiencing new things and taking risks. They enjoy exploring different cultures, ideas, and environments and often find themselves at their best when learning or adapting to new challenges.

The Advocate – Empathetic, sensitive, and idealistic, the Advocate is deeply committed to making a positive impact on the world.

Professional Descriptions

As you showcase who you are, it is important to include a professional description that portrays your abilities in the most effective way possible. A professional description is a brief yet comprehensive summary that highlights your skills, education, work experience, and accomplishments relevant to your chosen field.

Overview of professional descriptions

A professional description is a powerful tool that can help you encapsulate your unique expertise and convey your value as an asset to potential employers or clients. This section of the article will guide you through the process of identifying and crafting a professional description that accurately represents who you are and what you offer.

Identifying your professional abilities

Before you begin drafting your professional description, it is essential to evaluate your skills, knowledge, and experience. This step will help you put your best foot forward and highlight your unique abilities that set you apart from others. Some questions to consider when identifying your professional abilities include:

• What skills do I have that are relevant to my industry or field?
• What knowledge and education qualifications do I possess that showcase my expertise?
• What experience have I gained in my career thus far that supports my skills and knowledge?

Answering these questions will enable you to focus on the most important aspects of your professional abilities when crafting your professional description.

Crafting a professional description

The key to creating an effective professional description is to keep it concise, direct, and specific. Your professional description should quickly communicate your strengths and provide a compelling reason for others to consider working with you. To craft a winning professional description, consider the following tips:

• Start with a strong opening statement that highlights your unique selling point.
• Use relevant keywords that demonstrate your expertise and is tailored for the industry you are working in.
• Provide specific accomplishments, credentials or experience relevant to the desired position or role
• Conclude with a clear call to action, indicating what the reader must do next to collaborate with you.

Examples of professional descriptions

Here are five examples of professional descriptions, each showcasing different industries, expertise and tone of language:

• Highly organized and results-driven project manager with 10+ years of experience guiding large-scale construction projects to successful completion on time and within budget.
• Creative and versatile graphic designer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling through visual media. 5+ years of experience in brand identity, web design, and print collateral development, collaborating with clients across various industries.
• Seasoned lawyer with over 15 years of experience developing and deploying scalable commercial, litigation, and regulatory legal strategies to achieve optimal outcomes for corporate clients in the telecommunications industry.
• Resourceful and proactive social media specialist with 3+ years of experience in developing effective digital marketing campaigns, cultivating brand awareness, and growing social media followers for clients within the beauty and fashion industry.
• Passionate educator dedicated to fostering student learning through innovative instructional methods and curriculum development.

Physical Descriptions

When it comes to describing yourself, your physical attributes can play a significant role in how people perceive you. In this section, we will cover the following topics:

Overview of physical descriptions

Physical descriptions include attributes such as height, weight, hair color, eye color, and body type. These attributes can either be stated plainly or through vivid and descriptive language that paints a picture for the reader.

Identifying your physical attributes

Before you can craft a physical description, it’s important to identify your physical attributes. Take a moment to reflect on how you look and how you would describe yourself to someone else.

Crafting a physical description

When crafting a physical description, it’s important to consider your audience and what kind of impression you want to make. Are you describing yourself for a job interview or a dating profile? Once you’ve identified your audience, choose words that accurately and positively portray your physical attributes.

Here are some tips for crafting a physical description:

• Be honest but positive. Highlight your best features without exaggerating or lying.
• Use sensory language. Incorporate descriptive language that engages the reader’s senses and paints a visual picture.
• Consider context. Depending on the situation or audience, you may need to emphasize different physical attributes.

Examples of physical descriptions

• I am 5’7″ with hazel eyes and curly brown hair. My athletic build is the result of regular exercise and a healthy diet.
• At 6’2″, I am taller than average, with piercing blue eyes and short, buzzed hair. I have a lean and muscular build from a lifetime of playing sports.
• My dark brown hair cascades to my waist and frames my heart-shaped face. I have bright green eyes that sparkle when I smile, and a curvy figure that I embrace and love about myself.
• I am a petite 5’1″ with striking copper-red hair and big brown eyes. While my small stature may be deceiving, my athletic build and love for fitness keep me strong and healthy.
• My wavy blonde hair falls just above my shoulders, complementing my bright blue eyes. While I am naturally slim, I am toned and fit from a passion for outdoor activities like hiking and surfing.

Crafting a physical description is an opportunity to highlight your best features and make a positive impression on others. By being honest, descriptive, and context-aware, you can create a physical description that accurately and positively represents you.

Emotional Descriptions

In this section, we will discuss how to effectively use emotional descriptions to portray your personality or character. Emotional descriptions are an effective way to connect with your audience on a deeper level and show them a more human side of yourself.

Overview of Emotional Descriptions

An emotional description is an expression of feelings that depict your state of mind. It can be achieved by using descriptive words that help capture the exact emotions you are experiencing. Emotional descriptions help to create a more vivid picture of who you are, thereby making it easier for people to understand you.

Identifying Your Emotional State

Identifying your emotional state is a crucial step in creating emotional descriptions. You need to be self-aware and in touch with your feelings before you can effectively communicate them to others. Take some time to reflect on your emotions and how you are feeling currently. This will help guide you in crafting a more accurate and genuine emotional description.

Crafting an Emotional Description

When crafting an emotional description, it’s important to use language that vividly describes the emotions you are experiencing. Be specific and avoid generalizing feelings. Use relatable and familiar analogies to paint a clear picture of your emotional state.

Examples of Emotional Descriptions

Here are some examples of emotional descriptions that can be used to describe yourself:

• My heart races with excitement every time I discover something new
• My mind is a chaotic garden of ideas, sprouting out in every direction
• I feel lost and confused, like a ship lost at sea
• I am overwhelmed with a sense of calmness and tranquility, like a still lake at dawn
• My emotions are like a pendulum, swinging from one end to another.

Emotional descriptions offer an opportunity to create a more accurate portrayal of yourself to others. Be authentic, use descriptive words, and try to connect with your audience on a deeper level. By following these guidelines, you can create emotional descriptions that truly capture your personality and character.

Social Descriptions

In today’s digital age, creating a strong social presence has become increasingly important for personal and professional branding. Social descriptions can help highlight your unique attributes and showcase your personality to the world.

Overview of social descriptions

Social descriptions are brief summaries of your social attributes and traits that you want to highlight on social media platforms. These attributes can include your profession, interests, skills, and hobbies.

Identifying your social attributes

Before crafting your social description, take time to reflect on your personal and professional qualities that make you unique. Consider your strengths and what sets you apart from others. Ask yourself, “What would I want people to know about me?”

Crafting a social description

When crafting your social description, keep it concise and to the point. Aim to capture your essence in a few short sentences. Be sure to include your profession or industry, interests, and personality traits. Use keywords relevant to your field to make your description more searchable.

Examples of social descriptions

Expert marketer, avid traveler, and foodie.  Passionate about creating innovative marketing strategies that capture consumer attention. Loves exploring new cities and trying new cuisines.

Creative writer, film buff, and cat mom.  Experienced in content creation and copywriting. Has a passion for storytelling and a love for all things cinema. Enjoys spending time with her furry feline.

Fashion enthusiast, fitness junkie, and animal rights advocate.  Experienced in the fashion industry and committed to sustainable fashion practices. A dedicated fitness enthusiast and animal lover.

Tech enthusiast, social media guru, and music lover.  Obsessed with the latest digital trends and platforms. Has a passion for music and loves attending live concerts.

Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and avid reader.  Founder of a successful startup and passionate about giving back to the community. Enjoys reading books on business and personal growth.

Social descriptions are a great way to showcase your unique attributes and personality to the world. By identifying your strengths and crafting a concise description, you can create a strong social presence and stand out from the crowd.

Value Descriptions

Value descriptions are an essential part of describing yourself and your personal brand. A value description conveys what you believe in and what drives your actions and decisions. It’s crucial to create value descriptions that effectively communicate your beliefs, as they reflect your character and can help you build stronger relationships in both personal and professional settings.

Overview of Value Descriptions

Before crafting a value description, it’s important to understand what it represents. A value description is a concise statement that encapsulates your most important principles and beliefs. It should be phrased in a way that is easy to understand and memorable, making it an effective tool for communicating your values to others.

Identifying Your Values

To create a compelling value description, you must first identify the values that drive your behavior. Start by thinking about your life experiences and what you care most about. Consider what motivates you and what you would fight for. Your values may relate to family, work, personal growth, or societal issues.

Crafting a Value Description

Crafting a value description requires an understanding of what you believe in and how to communicate it effectively. The key is to create a statement that is brief, memorable, and captures the essence of what you stand for. You should aim to use positive, action-oriented language that inspires others to adopt similar beliefs.

Examples of Value Descriptions

Here are five examples of inspiring value descriptions:

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” This phrase, popularized by Mahatma Gandhi, encompasses the value of personal responsibility for making a positive impact on the world.

“Always do what’s right, not what’s easy.” This value encourages consistently making ethical and moral decisions, even if it requires more effort or sacrifice.

“Live every day as if it were your last.” This value emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and making the most out of life.

“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” This value encourages treating others with compassion and empathy, even in difficult situations.

“Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.” This value emphasizes the importance of self-confidence and resilience in achieving personal and professional goals.

Crafting an effective value description requires introspection and an understanding of what you stand for. By creating a compelling value description, you can communicate your beliefs and inspire others to adopt similar values.

Skills Descriptions

When it comes to describing yourself, it’s important to focus on your skills. Employers look for candidates who possess the necessary skills to perform the job at hand. But identifying your skills might not be as easy as it sounds. That’s where skills descriptions come in.

Overview of Skills Descriptions

Skills descriptions are brief summaries of your abilities and competencies. They provide employers with a quick snapshot of what you bring to the table. Crafting an effective skills description requires a bit of self-awareness and creativity.

Identifying Your Skills

To create a skills description, you need to first identify your skills. Start by listing everything you’re good at, whether it’s a technical skill like programming or a soft skill like interpersonal communication. Don’t be afraid to ask friends, colleagues, and family members for input. They may have a different perspective on your strengths that you might have overlooked.

Crafting a Skills Description

Once you’ve identified your skills, it’s time to craft a description. Start by choosing the most important skills you possess that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. State the skill and then provide an example of how you’ve demonstrated that skill in the past. Make sure to highlight the value that these skills bring to the employer.

For example, if you’re applying for a sales position, you might write:

• Persuasive communicator: Demonstrated ability to create and deliver presentations that convert prospects into customers.

Examples of Skills Descriptions

Here are some examples of skills descriptions:

Project management: Successfully led cross-functional teams to deliver complex projects on time and within budget.

Attention to detail: Consistently produced error-free work by meticulously reviewing and proofreading documents.

Problem-solving: Proven ability to identify and solve complex problems using a data-driven approach.

Team player: Collaborated effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals and create a positive work environment.

Adaptability: Demonstrated flexibility and resilience while working in fast-paced and rapidly changing environments.

By crafting effective skills descriptions, you’ll be able to effectively communicate your strengths to potential employers and differentiate yourself from other candidates.

Achievements Descriptions

When it comes to describing yourself, nothing speaks louder than your achievements. In this section, we’ll take a look at the importance of achievements descriptions, how to identify them, and best practices for crafting them.

Overview of Achievements Descriptions

Achievement descriptions are concise, yet powerful summaries of your professional accomplishments. They serve as evidence of your capabilities and showcase your value proposition to potential employers or clients. Achievements descriptions can be used in resumes, cover letters, and online profiles.

Identifying Your Achievements

Before you can craft an achievements description, it’s important to take stock of your accomplishments. Start by asking yourself the following questions:

• What goals have I accomplished?
• How have I made a tangible impact in my professional field?
• What specific tasks or responsibilities have I excelled at?
• Have I received any awards or recognition for my work?

Once you’ve identified your achievements, you can begin to distill them into clear and compelling descriptions.

Crafting an Achievements Description

When crafting an achievements description, it’s important to keep in mind the following best practices:

• Be concise: Summarize your achievement in 1-2 sentences.
• Be specific: Use data points or metrics to emphasize the impact of your accomplishment.
• Be relevant: Focus on achievements that align with the job or client you are targeting.
• Be action-oriented: Use strong action verbs to convey your accomplishment.

For example, instead of saying “Increased sales revenue,” you could say “Boosted sales by 30% through targeted marketing campaigns.”

Examples of Achievements Descriptions

Here are five examples of achievements descriptions that follow the best practices outlined above:

• “Led a cross-functional team that reduced production costs by 25% through process optimization and automation.”
• “Revamped the company’s social media strategy resulting in a 50% increase in engagement and a 20% increase in website traffic.”
• “Developed and implemented a new employee training program that resulted in a 25% increase in staff retention.”
• “Created a project management system that saved the company over $100,000 in project delays and increased customer satisfaction by 20%.”
• “Consistently achieved a customer satisfaction rating of 95% or higher through proactive communication and issue resolution.”

By following these best practices and providing clear and compelling achievements descriptions, you can effectively showcase your value and land your dream job or client.

Short Blurb Descriptions

Short blurb descriptions are brief summaries or teasers used to grab the reader’s attention and provide a concise understanding of the content. They can be used for various purposes, such as advertising, marketing, or promoting products, services, or ideas.

The primary purpose of a short blurb is to capture the reader’s interest and entice them to read more. It aims to pique their curiosity, give them a sneak peek, and persuade them to take action, such as clicking a link, watching a video, or buying a product. Therefore, a short blurb must be compelling, engaging, clear, and focused.

Crafting a short blurb requires a combination of creativity, clarity, and conciseness. It should provide enough information to convey the key message or benefit while leaving out unnecessary details. A good short blurb should also be tailored to the target audience and reflect the tone, style, and language of the content or brand.

To give you some examples, here are five short blurb descriptions that showcase different approaches to describing yourself:

• The Bold Innovator:  I transform challenges into opportunities and spark breakthroughs with my visionary thinking and fearless approach. Join me on the frontier of change.
• The Versatile Maverick:  I’m a master of surprises and a jack of all trades, navigating life with creativity, humor, and resourcefulness. Ready for an adventure?
• The Caring Empath:  I listen deeply, feel passionately, and connect authentically with others, building meaningful relationships that enrich and inspire. Let’s make a difference together.
• The Expert Guide:  I have the knowledge, experience, and wisdom to help you reach your goals, solve your problems, and achieve your dreams. Ready to unlock your potential?
• The Authentic Voice:  I speak my truth, share my story, and inspire others to embrace their uniqueness, empower their voice, and live their purpose. Are you ready to be heard?

Long-form Descriptions

As a copywriter, mastering the art of long-form descriptions is an essential skill to communicate effectively with readers. A long-form description is a piece of content that conveys a thorough explanation of a product, service, or an idea. It typically comprises of 500 or more words and aims to educate and persuade the reader to take action.

The primary purpose of a long-form description is to provide extensive information about the product or service being described. It helps the reader to make an informed decision and builds trust with the audience. Furthermore, it creates a strong emotional connection with the reader and evokes a sense of urgency.

Crafting a compelling long-form description begins with identifying the target audience and their needs. It is crucial to understand the buyer persona, their pain points, and how the product or service can solve those problems. Researching the competition and industry trends also plays a vital role in crafting an effective long-form description.

When writing a long-form description, it is essential to keep the content engaging, user-friendly, and structured. The introduction should hook the audience and give them a reason to continue reading. The body should provide a clear solution to the problem and highlight the benefits of the product or service. Adding testimonials, statistics, and case studies can also improve the credibility of the content.

Here are some examples of long-form descriptions that describe a person or an idea:

A day in the life of a successful entrepreneur: This long-form description takes the reader on a journey through the life of a successful entrepreneur, highlighting the challenges, lessons, and daily routines involved in building a thriving business.

The art of public speaking: This long-form description provides an in-depth guide to public speaking, including the benefits, techniques, and tips for becoming a skilled speaker.

My journey to self-discovery: This long-form description describes an individual’s experience in exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and innermost desires, leading to personal growth and fulfillment.

The power of positive thinking: This long-form description explains the benefits of positive thinking and how it can transform one’s mindset, leading to success and happiness.

Overcoming adversity: This long-form description shares the story of an individual who overcame significant obstacles and how their experiences taught valuable life lessons.

Long-form descriptions are a powerful tool for copywriters to communicate effectively with their audience. By understanding the purpose, crafting engaging content, and providing examples, writers can create compelling long-form descriptions that inspire and motivate their readers.

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The Best Words to Describe Yourself on a Resume

In This Guide:

Use power adjectives and action verbs, words to describe yourself, words not to describe yourself with, tips and tricks.

Quick Answer: To describe yourself in the best way possible, use powerful adjectives and action verbs, but provide proof to avoid coming across as self-praising. For leadership positions, highlight traits such as rationality, charisma, and decisiveness. For teamwork, emphasize observance, organization, and personability. Avoid words like amazing, awesome, humble, and visionary. Use concise sentences and keywords from the job listing, and take your time to perfect your description. Remember, your resume is an extension of you.

One of the most tricky parts of the job-seeking process is using the right words to describe yourself. You would want to show your positive traits, but you need to be careful with borderline self-praising.

You need to make your words show who you are in the best possible light. Just like resume action verbs , the words you use to describe yourself are extremely influential, and it is important to make them strong enough to be remembered.

But how to do so? There are over one million words in the English language. It might seem near impossible to pick the right words to describe yourself.

Lucky for you, we got you covered. In this article, we are going to examine topics like:

• How to choose the best words to describe yourself
• Different words you can use for different effect

And, of course, we are going to wrap things up with some great tips and tricks . If you first want to make your resume stand out , check out our Resume Builder . But if you really want to work on the words you describe yourself with, stick around.

One of the most essential things you need to do when describing yourself is use powerful adjectives. But don’t overdo it. Don’t forget that the hiring manager doesn’t really know you that well.

If you praise yourself too much, you might blow your chances of getting the job. But the more important thing you need to remember here is to provide proof.

Whatever powerful adjective you use for yourself, you need to show some proof that it is in fact real. Anyone can say that they are detail-oriented, but without proof, that means nothing to the hiring manager.

Even more importantly, you would want to use action verbs . The main idea is to sprinkle a few powerful adjectives to help you out, but let action verbs do the heavy lifting.

As we mentioned, there is a great variety of words you can describe yourself with. Luckily, the list drastically shrinks when we want words that would match a specific skill or ability needed for a job position

So the first thing you need to think about is what are the words you would want your potential employer to remember you by. It may sound hard and scary, but that’s why we have a few examples for you to get you started.

Words to describe yourself for leadership

If you are applying for any kind of leadership role, you should be really careful with the words you use to describe yourself.

The hiring manager would be on the lookout for some specific ones. Let’s go through the most important ones and get you ready to nail them.

That’s a trait possessed largely by extroverts. Using it to describe yourself shows the hiring manager not only that you are extroverted, but also that you are outgoing, cheerful and joyful.

That would be of great importance in order to create a sustainable team that would achieve all the company’s goals. But don’t forget to provide some proof, as it would be extremely easy for the hiring manager to catch you with a lie with this one.

Describing yourself with this adjective shows the hiring manager that you are driven by logic and reasoning.

That would be really important when you are in a place to make an important decision. A rational thinker would depend on their logic, rather than emotions, when it comes to tough situations

self-motivated

Describing yourself as self-motivated shows the hiring manager that you are self-driven. That means that you require no external pressure or monitoring to see out a project. That would be really significant for a leadership role, as you would be more independent than most employees.

This trait is extremely important, no matter the position. Being ethical shows that you have a high professional moral standing. It would be fair for the hiring manager to assume that you are honest and have the ability to know what’s right and wrong professionally.

Charismatic

In order to be charismatic, you are quite definitely emotionally intelligent. Furthermore, it shows the hiring manager that you have the ability to earn love, trust and affection of others with ease.

You most certainly need this trait if you are applying for a leadership position.

Being decisive is another trait that is a must for leadership roles. It shows the hiring manager that you are a spontaneous thinker and can make accurate decisions on the go. Being able to act quickly and accurately in tough spots would really raise your score in the eyes of the hiring manager.

Imaginative

While this one is not a must for a leadership role, the hiring manager would probably look for it. It would show them that you are very ingenious and clever in your dealings.

If you don’t feel right using that adjective, you can switch with creative or innovative, which are just as strong.

Words to describe yourself as a team player

For a great deal of professions, being a team player is crucial. That’s why it is important to catch the hiring manager’s attention with some teamwork adjectives.

And we have some of the most essential ones here for you.

This adjective might sound negative at first, but hiring managers don’t see it that way.

If you describe yourself as persistent, they would assume that you are very determined, relentless and tenacious in your pursuit of anything, but without losing your positive mindset.

This trait would be helpful for lots of things.

It shows the hiring manager that you have the ability to notice details and compose logical analysis. And that would always be appreciated.

That shows one of the most influential traits you can show for yourself - discipline. A discipline to plan and execute strategies correctly is greatly appreciated by hiring managers.

Being personable is great not only for leadership, but also to show that you are a team player. Once again - that trait shows the hiring manager that you are both extroverted, and that you are really outgoing and cheerful.

This is a trait that should be possessed not only by the leader of the team, but also by every team member.

That’s another trait that is applicable to both leadership and teamwork.

In this case, its importance is mostly because of the emotional intelligence of the person, as it is extremely important for team work.

Other words you can describe yourself with

As words have started repeating, we need to save some time for those we have not yet mentioned, but are extremely significant.

Here is a list you might want to consider when describing yourself:

This is always a good trait to assign to yourself, if you have anything to back it up with. It shows the hiring manager that you have a high level of trust and honesty. Usually such a trait is built over the years, especially with positions like finance executive, marketing executive, etc.

This is one of the adjectives that one could use, no matter the job position. It shows the hiring manager that you have determination to grow and survive, no matter the job, and no matter the organization.

It is a really great quality to have, if you really strive for growth.

Compassionate

This trait is typically used in healthcare and in the legal system, but it wouldn’t hurt to describe yourself with it otherwise as well.

It shows the hiring manager that you are caring and concerned for others by default.

That’s one more trait that could be applicable no matter the position and the organization.

Interestingly enough, it is important just because the position and the organization matter to you.

It shows that you have unending commitment to a cause and a leader.

Describing yourself as practical can quite often be a pleasant surprise for the hiring manager.

It shows them that you are guided by experience, rather than mere theories or ideas.

straightforward

And last, but not least, being straightforward. That trait shows the hiring manager that you understand and value integrity. People possessing that trait are usually very understandable.

It would not surprise you that there are also words that you should absolutely stay away from. When it comes to your professional description, these, and many similar adjectives, would probably be misunderstood.

And you don’t want that, you want to present yourself in the best light possible. So, what are these adjectives that you should stay away from?

Here is a short list, but keep in mind that there are many similar ones to these:

• Intelligent

You get the idea, you wouldn’t want to give such an impression to the hiring manager.

As promised, we are going to leave you off with some tips and tricks to use when describing yourself.

First, be concise. Keep your sentences short and to the point. Short, concise sentences have more power.

And, as we mentioned earlier, provide some proof. Any catchy word without context is meaningless to the hiring manager.

And last, but not least, make sure you use any keywords you have seen on the job listing. That’s why it’s important to closely read the job description and include any keywords you find in your resume.

We are all done. Now you know what words to use to describe yourself in the best possible way. You are now ready to show yourself in the best possible light in front of the hiring manager.

Take your time and have a closer look at the job position, so that your description would include more keywords, that the hiring manager would be looking for.

Don’t forget to use action verbs and powerful adjectives, but also give them some context. Keep our example words in mind and make your description perfect for the job you seek.

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How to Describe Yourself on a Resume (With Examples)

8 min read · Updated on January 23, 2024

It doesn't have to feel like nails on a chalkboard when trying to describe yourself on a resume!

How you describe yourself on your resume directly impacts whether you land that interview you so eagerly want. It's essential to describe your qualifications and experience in such a way as to grab the employer's attention without hesitation. 

How do you do that, exactly? By incorporating self-descriptive words on your resume that stand out to hiring teams and showcase that you're the best fit for the job. 

In this post, we start off with tips for developing self-descriptive words for your resume, followed by examples of descriptive words to use and avoid. 

Tips for developing self-descriptive words for your resume

It's not uncommon for individuals to struggle with talking about their accomplishments and strengths. We tend to share about another's skills and abilities easily, but when it comes to describing ourselves, we fall short. Fortunately, below are some steps you can take to boost your creative juices and find the words for your resume to help you stand out from the competition. 

Ask friends and peers for help

One way to come up with ways to describe yourself is to ask your peers, friends, and managers for input. For a comprehensive perspective, ask for feedback from those in your personal and professional lives. Here are some questions you can ask to receive the information you need:

What are three adjectives you would use to describe me?

How would you describe me to a coworker or friend?

If you could sum up my personality in one word, what would it be, and why?

Consider past performance reviews

Another way to develop self-descriptive words for a resume is to reflect on past performance reviews. What did supervisors have to say about you? What about coworkers who provided input? What were some of the strengths and achievements emphasized?

Make a list of your past accomplishments and strengths

Brainstorm to come up with a list of all your strengths, so you can more easily refer to them when describing yourself on a resume. Do this by first listing some of your key achievements and considering what strengths allowed you to achieve them. 

For example, suppose you implemented a new customer service rating system two weeks ahead of schedule, which led to a 10% increase in customer feedback. In that case, you might describe yourself as efficient and productive. 

Refer to the job description

If you're struggling to come up with the best self-descriptive words for your resume, refer to the job description. Highlight any skills, knowledge, and requirements you possess that align with the job. By incorporating these keywords into your resume, you're not only emphasizing that you meet the job qualifications but are also improving your resume's chances of getting past an employer's  applicant tracking system , or ATS.

Think positive

It's good to be humble and clear on your strengths and weaknesses. However, when it comes to self-descriptive words for a resume, you want to focus on the positives only - your strengths. 

Save sharing your weaknesses for the interview, when you'll likely be asked about them. During an interview, you can - and should - give your weaknesses a positive spin with context, which is challenging to do on a resume.

As you develop your list of strengths and how you'd describe yourself, work to develop some unique adjectives to use that are specific to your qualifications. Refer to the list of strengths you've developed, and look up synonyms for those words that could help you to stand out from other applicants. 

For example, instead of incorporating the commonly used term “creative,” you might use words like inventive or prolific. A word of caution is to avoid words that come across as boastful or exaggerating your qualifications.    

Review example resumes

An excellent resource to refer to when you're attempting to craft your own resume is to look at  resume examples  online. The resume examples you review don't need to be specific to your field, since self-descriptive adjectives and descriptive verbs aren't industry-specific, as shown in the examples below. This approach not only helps to generate ideas for self-descriptive words for your resume but also provides guidance on  how to write your resume  as a whole.

Self-descriptive words for a resume - examples

When it comes to self-descriptive words for a resume, technically, we're referring to adjectives, since adjectives describe a noun. However, two additional categories of words are essential to fully describe your abilities and work history: descriptive verbs and skills.  

Powerful adjectives for a resume

Here are only a few of the many adjectives you could use on your resume, with examples of how you might include them in a sentence. 

Adaptable:  Adaptable professional with ability to move from project to project within different departments. 

Compassionate:  Compassionate caretaker with 10 years of experience, working with hospices and providing end-of-life services. 

Knowledgeable:  Knowledgeable mechanic with 3 excellence awards for superb service and quality, earned in less than 6 months. 

Perceptive:  Perceptive speaker with ability to navigate an audience to know where to direct attention to garner the best outcome. 

Tech-savvy:   Tech-savvy Visual Artist with ability to bring together ideas and people to produce valuable and thought-provoking content, including images, videos, and graphics. 

Top tip: For an extensive list of 100 power adjectives, refer to “ 100 Powerful Resume Adjectives that Can Make Your Resume More Compelling .” 

Descriptive verbs for a resume

Action verbs  are vital in really making your work section stand out. Each bullet point you include for the jobs you list should begin with a power verb that emphasizes your role in the activity or achievement. Power verbs are also used in the resume summary to highlight accomplishments. 

Skills for a resume

Skills on your resume  should include a combination of soft and hard skills. In many instances, hard skills are spelled out and soft skills are inferred based on our past achievements. 

Unusual words to describe yourself on a resume

As mentioned, be creative and specific when selecting self-descriptive words for your resume, to help set you apart. A great way to do this is to use a thesaurus to gather synonyms for the list of self-descriptive adjectives you come up with. Some interesting choices that aren't used as often yet can still sound good on a resume include:

Inventive 

Self-descriptive words for a resume: what NOT to use

Yes, there are some words to leave off your list of self-descriptive words for your  resume. These words tend to be overused, generic, highly subjective, or boastful. Here are a few examples:

You might think you're likable, but likability is in the eye of the beholder. Instead of using likable, consider adjectives that refer to being likable, yet add value, such as team player, compassionate, and energetic. 

Intelligent 

Don't flat-out state you're intelligent, at risk of coming across as overly confident. Also, it should be inferred that you're intelligent by the other adjectives and proof you provide to back them up on your resume. Words like big-picture thinker, agile, and quick learner are better word choices.

Saying you're successful is very broad. Instead, you want to narrow your successes to specific skills and strengths with qualifiers and quantifiable data. 

Here are a few more self-promotional adjectives to leave off your resume. 

Got-to-person

Outside the box thinker

Instead of using these types of adjectives, come up with alternatives where you can show results linked to them. A good place to begin is by asking yourself, "What have I achieved that shows I'm a go-getter, the best, and so on?"

Where to incorporate self-descriptive words on a resume

Now that you've seen some examples of self-descriptive words, where do they belong on your resume? There are three main areas to place them:

Resume summary. Your  resume summary  falls just below your contact information and is the main area where you'll incorporate self-descriptive adjectives, with a few skills and power verbs. 

Competencies and skills list. Your  core competencies or skills list  should include the soft and hard skills required for the job, based on the job description. 

Work experience section. The  work experience section  is where you'll include the power verbs that describe what you did on the job, as well as some of the skills that supported you in doing so. You might also include some adjectives in this section, though generally, the adjectives are inferred. For example:

“Motivated team of 10 to implement an enhanced customer booking log project on time, resulting in an 8% increase in positive customer experience ratings”

From this achievement, one can infer that the person is motivational, a leader, and efficient. 

Apply a variety of self-descriptive words on your resume

Now you have some tips to help you discover the best self-descriptive words for your resume, with examples. You also know where to include them. As a final tip, when you incorporate your descriptive words, be sure to use a variety of adjectives and power verbs so your resume doesn't sound redundant. Good luck! 

If you're wondering if you're using the right self-descriptive words throughout your resume, why not submit it for a  free resume review ? Our  TopResume team of experts  will help to ensure your resume describes you in a way that lands you interview after interview!

Recommended reading:

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 250+ words to describe yourself in any situation.

General Education

One skill everyone should have, whether you’re applying to college or for a job, is how to describe yourself in a way that's both accurate and unique. In other words, what are some interesting, eye-catching words to describe yourself with?

We list more than 250 describing words and give you tips for figuring out how to pick words that best suit you and your personality. But first, what are some situations in which you’d need to know describing words?

Why Might You Need to Describe Yourself?

Before we dive into our list of words to describe yourself, let's answer an important question: why would you actually need to know any of these words? Put differently, in what situations would you need the following words to describe someone or yourself?

Here are some key instances you’ll want to use these words to describe yourself:

• Cover letter: A cover letter is required for most job applications; it emphasizes the best and most impressive aspects of yourself as a job candidate. As a result, you'll need to pick words that really make you stand out in a positive light.
• Job interview: It’s common for an interviewer to ask you to describe yourself in a number of words; therefore, it’s important that you know some unique words you can use if you end up getting asked this basic interview question.
• College application/personal essay: Most college applications require applicants to submit a personal statement (though not all do !). Your essay will stand out if you have some original and interesting words to describe yourself.
• Online profile: Spice up your personal online profile, such as a dating profile or social media profile, by sprinkling in a few eye-catching adjectives.

Furthermore, if English is not your native language, this list of words to describe yourself can be a really great study resource you can use to learn some new vocabulary words!

List of 250+ Words to Describe Yourself

Most of these words are adjectives, but you’ll also come across some nouns, too. We’ve divided up our list of words to describe someone in the following categories:

• Cover Letter/Job Interview
• College Application
• Online Profile

All words are listed in alphabetical order.

Words to Describe Yourself in a Cover Letter/Job Interview

You can use these professional words to describe yourself on a cover letter or in a job interview.

Interviewers often ask candidates to describe themselves in one to three words , so familiarizing yourself with some particularly interesting (and, of course, truthful!) words you can use to describe yourself should give you a leg up in the interview process.

We’ll also give you a list of words you should not use to describe yourself on a cover letter and in a job interview.

• Accomplished
• Accountable
• Adept [at something]
• Collaborative
• Communicative
• Community-minded
• Compassionate
• Conscientious
• Constructive
• Cooperative
• Customer-focused
• Detail-oriented
• Encouraging
• Enterprising
• Entrepreneurial
• Experienced
• Extroverted
• Goal-oriented
• Hardworking
• High-achieving
• Imaginative
• Independent
• International
• Introverted
• Knowledgeable
• Level-headed
• Multilingual
• Open-minded
• Perfectionist
• Perseverant
• Problem solver
• Professional
• Receptive [to criticism]
• Resourceful
• Responsible
• Results-driven
• Revenue-focused
• Self-disciplined
• Self-reliant
• Self-starter
• Team player
• Trustworthy
• Understanding

Words to NOT Use to Describe Yourself in a Job Interview

All the words above are fair game for a cover letter and/or job interview, just as long as they’re true about you and you use them in a way that doesn’t make it come across like bragging .

Now, here are some words you should avoid using in a professional situation, as they can make you sound self-centered, pretentious, or simply unoriginal:

• Intelligent

In addition to these words, you should avoid any words with a clearly negative connotation , such as "lazy," "loud," "moody," and so on.

Words to Describe Yourself on a College Application

College applications are all about showcasing your biggest strengths, how you'll fit with the school, and your authentic self.

Unlike job interviews and cover letters, you’re typically allowed (and encouraged) to get a little more personal on college applications , especially with the personal essay, which highlights your positive qualities and who you are as a person.

Here are some words to describe yourself on a college application. (Note that many of these words overlap with those on the list above.) Afterward, we’ll give you some examples of words you should avoid in your college application.

• Down-to-earth
• Enthusiastic
• Social butterfly
• Strong-willed

Words to NOT Use to Describe Yourself on a College Application

• Deserving [of something]
• Noncommittal
• Unmotivated

Words to Describe Yourself in an Online Profile

This last set of words to describe yourself can be used in more casual, relaxed spaces, such as an online dating profile or a social media account .

You could also use these words to describe someone else, such as a character in a work of fiction you’re writing.

• Adventurous
• Affectionate
• Alternative
• Approachable
• Competitive
• Conservative
• Considerate
• Controversial
• Family-oriented
• Good listener
• Instinctive
• Interesting
• Kindhearted
• [Noun] lover
• Philosophical
• Progressive
• Self-assured
• Soft-spoken
• Sophisticated
• Spontaneous
• Traditional
• Unconventional
• Warmhearted

Words to NOT Use to Describe Yourself in an Online Profile

How you talk about yourself in an online profile is really up to you and can be pretty casual, too (as long as it’s not a professional LinkedIn profile). You’ll want to stick to predominantly positive words, but sometimes words that describe your funny or entertaining flaws could be worth including.

That said, here are some words you should never put down in a profile as they can make you come across as highly self-centered, rude, and frankly unapproachable !

• Inconsiderate
• Thoughtless

How to Describe Yourself: 4 Tips for Finding the Right Words

It’s not easy choosing the right words to describe yourself —b ut knowing exactly what you want to highlight about yourself can help you figure out the best describing words to use, whether they're for a cover letter, personal essay, or online dating profile.

Here are four tips to help you brainstorm and find the right words to describe yourself with.

#1: Consider Your Audience

One of the most important things you’ll need to consider before writing down tons of adjectives to describe yourself is your audience, or the person/people who will be hearing or reading the words you choose to use.

Your audience will play a fairly significant role in the words you ultimately choose, as you’ll need to make sure you’re coming across to them the way you want to.

For example, if your audience is a potential employer, you should use describing words that make you sound like an ideal fit at the company and that help you stand apart from other candidates (if you’re not memorable, you likely won’t get the job!).

Here are the general types of describing words different audiences will want to hear when it comes to describing yourself:

• For job interviews/cover letters: Positive describing words that emphasize your (relevant) skills, experience, professional interests, and company fit
• For college applications: Positive words that express your authentic personality, academic accomplishments/skills, ambitions, and overall school fit
• For online profiles: Positive words (though it might be worth throwing in some "flaws" for humorous effect or to stand out from others!) that stress your individual personality traits, skills, and interests — keep it casual, too!

Once you’ve got your audience down, it’s time to start thinking about your biggest strengths and most prominent personality traits.

#2: Think About Your Biggest Strengths

Whenever you’re describing yourself, you should always emphasize your biggest strengths, that is, your very best qualities!

These can be any describing words that you personally see as strengths (even if others don’t think the same — it’s OK to try to change their minds). More importantly, these should be words that you feel best encapsulate who you are .

For example, I was once asked to describe myself in three words during a job interview. One of the words I used was "introverted" because I’ve always felt a strong connection to this word.

Though the word tends to have a slightly negative connotation, I took a bit of time to explain to my interviewers exactly why I saw introversion as a strength and how this trait would actually help me effectively perform my job.

So what’s the lesson? Don’t be afraid to be yourself — use words that reflect what you value in life and what you like most about yourself.

#3: Ask Others How They Would Describe You

If you’re struggling to figure out how to describe yourself, it’s a great idea to ask others close to you how they would describe you if asked by somebody else. Doing this can give you a clearer, more objective view of your strengths (and weaknesses) and help you figure out what types of words are most applicable to you.

If possible, ask a range of people to describe you, from family and friends to former coworkers.

For example, if you’re applying to college, it'll help to get describing words about you from those connected to the college application process , such as your teachers and recommendation letter writers .

Simply ask them to write down a few words (adjectives or nouns) that best describe you and your academic or personal strengths, based on what they know about you.

#4: Be Careful Not to Exaggerate

Finally, take care to avoid any describing words that exaggerate your strengths or make you seem different from who you really are.

Remember that the point of describing yourself is to paint an authentic, positive portrait of yourself to your audience , whoever they are. If you lie or exaggerate something about yourself, then you're not accurately revealing who you are, which could confuse, anger, or disappoint your audience.

For instance, you probably wouldn’t (and shouldn't) use the word "artistic" to describe yourself if you only ever painted a few pictures for an art class years ago and didn’t enjoy the process.

Think of your interests and any personality traits or skills that come with these; this could help narrow down specific traits that are more relevant to you.

What’s Next?

Applying to college? Then you'll need to know what a personal statement is . Once you've got the gist of it, check out our guide to how to write a great college essay and look at our compilation of 100+ college essay examples .

Got an interview coming up for a job or for college? It's important to be prepared.  Aside from being asked to describe yourself, you might get asked any of these 14 questions .

Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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How to Write About Yourself

Last Updated: July 31, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Lucy Yeh . Lucy Yeh is a Human Resources Director, Recruiter, and Certified Life Coach (CLC) with over 20 years of experience. With a training background with Coaching for Life and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) at InsightLA, Lucy has worked with professionals of all levels to improve the quality of their careers, personal/professional relationships, self marketing, and life balance. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 5,686,709 times.

Whether you're writing an essay about yourself for a scholarship, a self-introduction, or a personal bio for a job application, coming up with the right words to capture what makes you unique can feel challenging. Fortunately, there are tips and tricks that can make writing about yourself a breeze. Want some help getting across just how impressive, interesting, and skilled you really are? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about putting yourself into words effectively, complete with examples.

Writing of the Autobiographical Nature

• Who are you?
• What is your background?
• What are your interests?
• What are your talents?
• What are your achievements?
• What challenges have you faced?

• What is your most interesting or unique quality? What word(s) describes you the best? Choose that topic.

• Bad: I like sports.
• Ok: I'm a fan of basketball, football, tennis, and soccer.
• Good: My favorite sport is football, both to watch and to play.
• Better: When I was growing up, I would watch Big Ten football with my dad and brothers every Saturday, before we'd go outside and toss the football around. I've loved it ever since.

• Braggy: I'm the best and most dynamic worker at my company right now, so you should want to hire me for my talents.
• Humble: I was lucky enough to be awarded three employee of the month awards at my current job. Turns out it was a company record.

Writing Personal Essays for School

• Common themes or prompts for autobiographical essays include overcoming obstacles, great successes or spectacular failures, and what you learned about yourself.

• Depending on the assignment, you may need to connect a personal anecdote to a reading or an idea from class. Start brainstorming topics that are connected to that idea, to give yourself a variety of options to choose from.

• Common autobiographical essay cliches include sports stories, mission trips, and dead grandmothers. While these can all make for excellent essays if done well, it is difficult to stand out when telling the story of how your lacrosse team lost a big game, then practiced hard, then won. It has been written before.

• If you want to tell the story of your nasty break-up, start with the break-up, do not start with the star-crossed way you met. You have got to get immediately to the tension in the story.

• When you have an idea of your topic, start writing a "memory list" of specific things that you remember about the event. What was the weather like? What did it smell like? What did your mother say to you?
• Your opening paragraph will set the tone for the rest of the essay. Rather than telling the dull biographical details (your name, your place of birth, your favorite food), find a way to express the essence of the story you are going to tell and the themes you are going to explore in your essay.

Writing a Cover Letter for an Application

• Outline your qualifications and highlight your talents in a cover letter.
• Write about who you are.
• In a cover letter, describe how your education and experience qualifies you for this position.
• Explain how this opportunity will benefit your career goals.

• When in doubt, keep it brief and serious. If you are unsure whether or not telling an amusing anecdote about your friend's bachelor party is appropriate in a cover letter, it is probably best to leave it out.

• "I'm writing to apply for the entry-level position with Company Inc. advertised on your website. I think my experience and training makes me an ideal candidate for this position."
• Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary to include your name in the body of the letter: "My name is John Smith and I am applying...." Your name will be included in the signature , as well as the header of a cover letter, so there is no need to put it in the text itself.

• Who you are and where you come from.
• Where you want to go.
• How this opportunity would potentially help you get there.

• Be as specific as possible. It is alright to note that you are "A passionate leader in all walks of life" but it would be much better to write about an example of a time you lead in a surprising way.
• Stay focused on skills and talents that connect specifically to the thing you are applying for. Extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and other types of outstanding achievement may be important to you personally, but it may be totally extraneous. If you include something, ensure to connect it specifically to the goal of the cover letter.

• Be as specific as possible. If you are writing a university cover letter, it is obvious that you have to have a degree to get a job as a doctor, but how did you come to choose this field? Why did you choose this school? What, specifically, do you want to take away from the experience?

• Be careful about using a cover letter to critique a business. It is not the time to describe the suffering of a particular brand over the previous fiscal quarter, then promising that you will be able to turn it around with your ideas. That might not go over well if you are hired, and then you are unable to live up to the promise.

• Even if it is impressive, a high GPA or class ranking does not belong in a cover letter. Highlight it on your resume, but do not include it in two different places of the application.

• Mailing address
• Telephone and/or fax number

Expert Trick : Save time and effort by creating one generic format that you can use for many different job applications by tweaking the specific content for each one. Start with a general introductory paragraph , then a section or two fleshing out your resume and expertise as it relates to the job, and finish it off with a closing paragraph and a note of thanks.

Writing a Short Biography Note

• Pretend you are writing about someone else. Write your name and start describing that person like a character or a friend: "John Smith is the Executive Vice President of Company Inc..."

• If you are a jack of all trades, say so. Do not be afraid to list "actor, musician, mother, motivational speaker, and professional rock climber" if they all apply equally.

• It is common to list degrees that you have received. Pay particular attention to anything that ties into the work you are writing about. If you have special training, include it here.

• "John Smith is the Executive Vice President of Company Inc., in charge of marketing and overseas acquisitions. He received an MBA with distinction from Harvard and lives in Montauk with his cat Cheeto."
• Do not overshare. It can seem funny to immediately start with "John Smith loves rafting and hates eating Cheetos. He's a total boss" and such bio notes can be appropriate for some venues, however be careful to avoid awkward oversharing. Telling everyone about your killer hangover might be best left for after work talk.

• Stephen King, who is one of the most successful and popular authors in recent history, has a bio note that just lists the name of his family members, his hometown, and his pets. Consider leaving out the self-congratulation entirely.

Community Q&A

• Remember that you’re supposed to talk about yourself, it’s the main topic. Don’t talk about your friends or family, even though you may feel tempted to. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• If you are having a difficult time writing about yourself, search online for examples of personal writing, in order to get some ideas and inspiration. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
• Don't think about how others feel about you. Everyone thinks from a different perspective. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/how-to-write-about-yourself
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/brainstorming/
• ↑ https://ohiostate.pressbooks.pub/choosingsources/chapter/narrowing-a-topic/
• ↑ https://www.yourdictionary.com/articles/essay-about-self-writing
• ↑ https://writingcommons.org/article/using-first-person-in-an-academic-essay-when-is-it-okay/
• ↑ https://www.glassdoor.com/blog/6-unconventional-ways-start-cover-letter/
• ↑ https://english.washington.edu/writing-cover-letter
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/career-goal-statement-examples
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/resume-vs-cover-letter
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/whats-the-ideal-cover-letter-length
• ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/how-to-format-a-cover-letter-example
• ↑ https://writingcenter.uagc.edu/first-vs-third-person
• ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/how-to-write-bio/

About This Article

If you have to write an autobiographical description of yourself, write down a list of your talents, interests, and accomplishments. Use this list to help you choose one specific topic for your description, such as your academic achievements or your leadership qualities. Use specific, unique details to support your topic, such as being awarded an academic scholarship or the fact that you were president of the newspaper in high school. You can list bits of your personal life, but be careful not to overshare. If you want to write about yourself a cover letter or personal essay, keep reading the article! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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NicheStaffing

Recruiters specializing in data storage systems & networking, cover letters.....differentiate yourself.

• Describe yourself in terms of likes and dislikes, both personal and professional. (hobbies, training, special interests, etc.)
• Describe your strengths.
• Describe what excites you.
• Describe personal and professional goals.
• Describe what you're looking for in a new situation.
• Describe your work habits.

If you can paint a clear picture of what you're like as a person, you are miles ahead in the game. I've often asked hiring authorities and human resource managers, "What gets your attention when looking through a stack of resumes?" The most common answer by far is "A good cover letter." It is definately an excellent way of moving your resume to the top of the stack! Below is an example of what a cover letter may look like.

To whom it may concern, I noticed your advertisement for a software systems engineer at the virtual career fair. The reason it caught my eye was not only because it's in an area that I have over five years experience in, but it looked as though long term, it may fit in with my personal career goals as well. I am a dedicated worker and take a great deal of pride in a job well done. I prefer to work in a close-knit team environment and thoroughly enjoy a challenging assignment. My current situation does not offer the team environment that I'm looking for, although the work is challenging and stimulating. I would prefer to stay in an area that allows me to contiue coding in addition to the more strategic aspects you mentioned in your description. If I were to make a move right now, it would be to a company that is definately forward looking with a strong team environment, that still offers the opportunity for individual achievement. My future goals are to move more toward the business side, possibly into product management or strategic planning, but that is still a few years down the road. Right now, I still feel like I have alot to contribute on the technical side. I'm really looking forward to meeting with you to discuss the details of the position at your earliest convenience. Please feel free to call me at work or home if you have any further questions. Sincerely, R. Michael Lewis

This type of letter is straight forward and to the point. It gives them a number of reasons why they should talk to you and lets them know that your serious about the opportunity and not just "window shopping." Which, by the way, is one of their main concerns. There are many different formats to use, this was just an example of one. Get creative, come up with one of your own or use this as a guideline, but use one. It could be the difference in getting you through the door.