How can you use industry jargon on your resume without sounding confusing?

1 Know your audience

The first step to using industry jargon on your resume is to know your audience. Who will be reading your resume and what are their expectations? If you are applying for a job within the same industry, you can use more jargon than if you are applying for a job in a different or related industry. If you are applying for a job in a highly specialized or technical field, you can use more jargon than if you are applying for a job in a more general or broad field. If you are applying for a job in a large or well-known organization, you can use more jargon than if you are applying for a job in a small or unknown organization. The key is to use jargon that matches the level of knowledge and interest of your audience.

2 Use jargon sparingly and strategically

The second step to using industry jargon on your resume is to use it sparingly and strategically. You don't want to overload your resume with jargon that makes it hard to read or understand. You also don't want to use jargon that is outdated, irrelevant, or inaccurate. You want to use jargon that highlights your skills, achievements, and value proposition. For example, you can use jargon to describe your specific responsibilities, projects, or accomplishments that are relevant to the job you are applying for. You can also use jargon to demonstrate your knowledge of industry trends, best practices, or standards. However, you should avoid using jargon to describe generic or common skills, tasks, or goals that are not unique to your industry or role.

3 Explain jargon when necessary

The third step to using industry jargon on your resume is to explain it when necessary. You don't want to assume that your audience knows every acronym, term, or concept that you use on your resume. You also don't want to leave your audience guessing or googling what you mean. You want to make sure that your resume is clear and concise, and that your jargon adds value and meaning to your resume. Therefore, you should explain jargon when it is not widely known, when it has multiple meanings, or when it is essential to understand your qualifications. For example, you can explain jargon by providing a brief definition, an example, or a context. You can also use parentheses, commas, or dashes to separate jargon from its explanation.

4 Proofread and get feedback

The fourth step to using industry jargon on your resume is to proofread and get feedback. You don't want to submit your resume with spelling, grammar, or formatting errors that can undermine your credibility and professionalism. You also don't want to submit your resume with jargon that is inappropriate, inconsistent, or confusing to your audience. You want to make sure that your resume is polished and effective, and that your jargon supports your career goals and personal brand. Therefore, you should proofread your resume carefully and check for any errors or inconsistencies in your jargon usage. You should also get feedback from someone who is familiar with your industry and target job, and who can give you honest and constructive advice on your resume.

5 Update your jargon regularly

The fifth step to using industry jargon on your resume is to update it regularly. You don't want to use jargon that is outdated, obsolete, or irrelevant to your current or desired industry or role. You also don't want to use jargon that is inaccurate, misleading, or inappropriate for your current or desired industry or role. You want to use jargon that reflects your current skills, achievements, and value proposition, and that aligns with the current trends, best practices, and standards of your industry and target job. Therefore, you should update your jargon regularly and keep track of any changes or developments in your industry and field. You should also research and learn new jargon that can enhance your resume and showcase your adaptability and growth.

6 Use jargon with confidence

The sixth step to using industry jargon on your resume is to use it with confidence. You don't want to use jargon that you don't understand, that you can't explain, or that you are not comfortable with. You also don't want to use jargon that is vague, generic, or irrelevant to your career goals and personal brand. You want to use jargon that expresses your expertise, passion, and personality, and that sets you apart from other candidates. Therefore, you should use jargon with confidence and conviction, and show that you are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and authentic about your industry and role.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?