Topping the list this year is “leadeship,” which while obviously a great skill to have, probably doesn’t make you very special if everyone else claims they have it too.

This year, “specialised” came in at #2, reflecting a demand for niche skills (such as cybersecurity) while last year’s favourite word. 

“Passionate” has thankfully dropped to to #3.

So the next time you spruce up your resume and cover letter – online or off – be sure to remember to keep it free of these words.

“It’s important to stand out from the crowd, while not under or over-selling yourself,” said Roger Pua, Senior Director, Corporate Communications for Asia Pacific, LinkedIn. 

“It’s definitely worthwhile making sure your achievements and skills are current and credibly reflected in your LinkedIn profile,” he says. 

While these words may be an easier way to describe you, they may not be effective in bringing you to life as a professional – especially since everyone is using the same ones.”

It’s hard to call yourself experienced especially when everyone else is experienced too. 

Plus, if you have to actually tell people you’re responsible in your resume… it might be counter-intuitive. 

Yeap, better not add this in either. 

Text: Karen Fong/CLEO