Resume Word Choice

Another word for "hardworking" on a resume

"Hardworking" is assumed of every candidate. Replace effort-language with results-language.

5 stronger alternatives

Use the verb that names the real outcome — then quantify it.

adjective

Dedicated

Pair with longevity or a hard win.

adjective

Diligent

Careful, persistent execution.

adjective

Tenacious

You pushed through obstacles.

adjective

Industrious

High output, consistently.

adjective

Resilient

You delivered under pressure.

Before & after

Swap the weak word, add a number, name the impact.

Weak
Hardworking sales associate.
Strong
Exceeded quota for 7 straight quarters, closing $1.4M in new business.

More resume words to upgrade

Frequently asked questions

Strong alternatives include Dedicated, Diligent, Tenacious, Industrious, Resilient. Choose the one that names the specific outcome you produced, and pair it with a number wherever you can.
"Hardworking" is assumed of every candidate. Replace effort-language with results-language.
Yes — but balance them with the exact keywords from the job description. ATS matches on the terms the role uses, so mirror those in your skills section and use vivid action verbs in your bullets.
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