LinkedIn reveals most overused buzzwords in KSA

LinkedIn, (NYSE:LNKD) the world’s largest online professional network, today released the most overused words on LinkedIn profiles in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). For the sixth year running, the ‘buzzwords’ were drawn from analysis of millions of profiles worldwide to compile the ten most used words in the past twelve months. LinkedIn is encouraging ambitious professionals to avoid these buzzwords when they are applying for jobs if they want to get noticed.

In KSA, “Leadership” bags the top spot, “Specialized” has fallen one spot to second, while “Expert” is the third most overused buzzword in the Kingdom on LinkedIn. “Excellent” and “Certified” complete the top five, acquiring fourth and fifth spots respectively.  

Additionally, this year’s most overused buzzword globally on LinkedIn is “specialized”.

The top ten buzzwords among KSA profiles are:

• Leadership
• Specialized
• Expert
• Excellent
• Certified
• Responsible
• Experienced
• Strategic
• Successful
• Dynamic

“It’s 2017 and it’s a great time to start something new whether it’s a new career, building your professional brand, making new connections or even becoming a mentor. If you’ve thought about pursuing a new career or tackling a challenge, you’re not alone, says Nada Enan, Senior Manager Marketing & PR – MENA, LinkedIn. This week is historically the busiest one of the year so far to update your LinkedIn profile. To help professionals ensure they shine and differentiate themselves, we are publishing our annual list of overused Buzzwords to avoid. Like most things in life, if you’re willing to put a little time and effort into making simple changes to your profile, you’re going to get a whole lot in return. All you have to do is get started,” said Enan.

LinkedIn has partnered with author Christopher Sandford, a bestselling biographer who is well accustomed to articulating others’ achievements.

Sandford commented, “The language we use says a lot about us so it’s important to choose your words carefully, especially in a professional context. Too often we hide behind buzzwords which don’t mean anything, whether out of a desire to keep things simple, or because we don’t feel confident talking about our work accomplishments. With some relatively simple changes you can start to use language which truly conveys what makes you great.”

Christopher Sandford has provided his advice for those looking to improve their LinkedIn profile this year:

1.              Mind your language

Your profile summary is one of the first things people look at, so it’s important to get it right. You want the reader to want to know more about you, so start with something punchy. You can do this through specific phrases, storytelling or even clever use of punctuation. Don’t be afraid to lead with a short sentence, such as ‘Music is my first love.’ Above all, you should always keep your reader, or customer, firmly in mind.

2.              Be direct

It’s often tempting to speak in the third person when it comes to our working lives - don’t! It’s impersonal and won’t draw the reader in. Take a professional tone and be assertive and direct when you’re talking about your achievements, don’t hide behind buzzwords or jargon. At the same time, don’t shy away from adding some personality to your language – this is a great way to show your character.

3.              Make the most of your experience

List out all your relevant previous roles and describe what you did in everyday language. This will help people understand the breadth of your ‘work story’ - a complete profile reflects a well-rounded person.

4.              Show, don’t just tell

While language is important, so is showing real examples of your work. Instead of using buzzwords like ‘strategic’, prove it by uploading presentations or projects that bring this to life. These are individual to you and help paint the picture of your special skills and unique background – whether that’s an image from a launch of a big campaign or the blog you write in your spare time.

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