300+ Best Action Words for Canadian Resume (2025)

Using action words on a Canadian resume can make a big difference in catching the employer’s attention. By using strong, specific verbs, job seekers can convey their qualifications and achievements in a way that is both concise and compelling.

In Canada, job seekers need to ensure that they use the right action words to impress potential employers and secure the jobs they want. However, it’s important to use the right action words for the job and industry you’re applying for, as well as to avoid generic or overused terms that can make your resume appear unoriginal.

This article will provide a comprehensive guide to using action words for Canadian resume. It will cover everything from why action words are important, to how to choose the right ones for your resume, to examples of powerful verbs to use in different industries.

What Are Action Words

Action words, also known as action verbs or power verbs, are words that describe an action or accomplishment. They are often used in resumes, cover letters, and job applications to describe your professional experience and demonstrate your skills and abilities.

Using action words can help your application stand out and communicate your accomplishments and responsibilities in a more engaging way. They help to paint a picture of what you have achieved and how you have contributed to previous roles or projects.

Examples of action words include “achieved,” “managed,” “led,” “improved,” “developed,” “coordinated,” and “innovated.” These words can be used to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities in a way that is more impactful and memorable for potential employers.

Why Action Words Matter

When crafting a resume for a job application, it is important to use action words that convey your qualifications and experience. Using action words on a resume can make it stand out to potential employers, and help you get noticed in a crowded job market.

1. Pass the Initial Screening

One reason why action words matter is that they can help you pass the initial screening process. Many organizations use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to screen resumes for an open position.

The ATS scans resumes for specific keywords and phrases and ranks them based on relevance. Using action words can help your resume rank higher and increase your chances of being selected for an interview.

2. Highlight Achievements And Skills

Another reason why action words matter is that they can help you highlight your achievements and skills. Using powerful action words to describe your accomplishments can make them stand out and show potential employers what you are capable of.

For example, instead of saying “responsible for managing a team,” use an action word like “directed” or “led” to convey your leadership skills.

3. Demonstrate Professionalism

Using action words can also help you demonstrate your attention to detail and professionalism. By using precise and descriptive action words, you can show potential employers that you are serious about your career and committed to achieving your goals.

Choosing the Right Action Words for Canadian Resume

When it comes to creating a Canadian resume, choosing the right action words is essential to make it stand out.

They can make a significant difference in how your resume is perceived by potential employers. This section will provide guidance on how to choose the right action words for your Canadian resume.

1. Skills and Abilities

When describing your skills and abilities, it’s important to use action words that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Start by reviewing the job description and identifying the skills and abilities that are required. Then, use action words that demonstrate how you have used these skills in previous roles.

For example, if the job requires leadership skills, use action words such as “led,” “managed,” or “coordinated” to describe your experience.

2. Achievements and Accomplishments

When describing your achievements and accomplishments, it’s important to use action words that demonstrate the impact you have made. Use quantifiable action words that show how you have contributed to the success of your previous employers.

For example, instead of saying “improved sales,” use action words such as “increased,” “boosted,” or “generated” to show the extent of your impact.

3. Responsibilities and Duties

When describing your responsibilities and duties, it’s important to use action words that show your level of responsibility and the scope of your work. Use action words that demonstrate how you have contributed to the success of your previous employers.

For example, instead of saying “managed a team,” use action words such as “supervised,” “guided,” or “directed” to show the extent of your leadership.

Using Action Words in Your Resume

When it comes to creating a standout resume, using the right action words can make all the difference. In this section, we’ll explore where to place action words in your resume and how to quantify your achievements for maximum impact.

Where to Place Action Words

Action words should be strategically placed throughout your resume to draw attention to your skills and experience. Here are some tips for using action words effectively:

• Use action words at the beginning of each bullet point to make your achievements stand out.
• Use action words to describe your skills and experience in the summary or objective section of your resume.
• Use action words to introduce each section of your resume, such as “Managed a team of 10 employees” in the experience section.

How to Quantify Your Achievements

Using numbers and statistics to quantify your achievements can make them more impactful and impressive to potential employers. Here are some examples of how to quantify your achievements:

• Instead of saying “Increased sales,” say “Increased sales by 20% in six months.”
• Instead of saying “Managed a team,” say “Managed a team of 10 employees and increased productivity by 25%.”
• Instead of saying “Improved customer satisfaction,” say “Improved customer satisfaction ratings from 80% to 95%.”

Here’s an example of how to use action words and quantification in a bullet point:

• “Managed a team of 10 employees and increased productivity by 25% through implementing new processes and procedures.”

By using action words and quantifying your achievements, you can create a resume that stands out and shows potential employers what you’re capable of.

In summary, using action words strategically and quantifying your achievements can make your resume more impactful and impressive. By following these tips, you can create a resume that stands out and helps you land your dream job.

---

Action Words By Skill

Here are some of the top action words to use in Canadian resumes sorted by skill type:

Leadership and Management Skills

• Coordinated
• Directed
• Executed
• Facilitated
• Managed
• Oversaw
• Spearheaded
• Supervised

Communication Skills

• Addressed
• Articulated
• Conveyed
• Drafted
• Edited
• Presented
• Publicized
• Wrote

Analytical Skills

• Analyzed
• Assessed
• Audited
• Diagnosed
• Evaluated
• Investigated
• Researched
• Tested

Problem-Solving Skills

• Devised
• Formulated
• Implemented
• Improved
• Innovated
• Optimized
• Streamlined
• Troubleshot

Technical Skills

• Designed
• Developed
• Implemented
• Installed
• Maintained
• Programmed
• Tested
• Upgraded

---

Action Words By Job Type

Here are some of the best action words you can use for each industry:

Administration

Communications

Creative

Financial

Management & Leadership

Research

Service

Teaching

Technical

---

Action Words For Results Achieved

Using these action words for Canadian resume can help you stand out to potential employers by demonstrating your skills and accomplishments in a clear and concise manner.

Remember to tailor your resume to each job you apply for and use specific examples to show how you’ve used these skills in the past.

Action words courtesy: University of Saskatchewan

---

Related Articles

• Canada Cover Letter Format And Samples
• How To Write Work Experience On A Canadian Resume
• How To Tailor Your Canadian Resume To Job Description
• Canadian Style Resume: The Essentials
• How To Write A Summary Statement For A Canadian Resume

---