1. Seasoned
Just say no to the word “seasoned,” unless you are, in fact, cooking. While there is a place for adjectives on a resume or profile, few are as likely to create negative connotation as “seasoned.” The intent is to imply that you have tremendous experience or are battle tested, but it could sound as if you are potentially too senior for a particular role.
2. Exceptional/Top-Notch/Impressive
Be careful of using subjective adjectives. Anything self-congratulatory and conclusory can sound overly self-serving and your resume should be more focused on objective facts. Let your specific accomplishments demonstrate your value.
3. Generalist
If you have broad experience, describe your specific areas of experience in detail. No one wants a generalist – unless it’s their doctor!
4. High School
As a lawyer, don’t spend time discussing your illustrious high school career. Just don’t. Hopefully you’ve done plenty of more recent things that are far more relevant and compelling.
5. Etc.
Describing your experience by ending with the word “etc.” makes it sound like you were too lazy to finish your thought. Rather, you should say that you worked on specific matters, including x, y and z.
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