Incorrectly Used Words

Human resources experts warn that typos on a resume instantly doom job candidates. If a candidate makes sloppy mistakes with a first impression, then those errors can affect the company's bottom line in the future. Incorrectly used words can sink prospective employees just as quickly for the same reason.

Jeff Haden, managing editor for Inc. magazine, notes 40 incorrectly used words that job candidates should study before adding them to a working vocabulary. Haden points out misusing these words may be an unfair assertion of someone's job abilities, but managers and human resources experts judge every aspect of a candidate for possible weaknesses that can affect a company's overall success.

Two incorrectly used words that appear commonly are "affect" and "effect." "Affect" means to influence something, such as oil prices affecting the company's transportation costs. "Affect" is always a verb in business terminology. "Effect" is a noun or a verb. The verb "effect" means to accomplish a task, as in a company that effects a merger in three months. Proper use of the noun "effect" includes a law's lasting effects that permanently change the energy industry.

"Criteria" and "criterion" are another pair of incorrectly used words. The words are based on a Greek concept, so "criteria" is the plural form. Haden suggests you substitute other words, such as "reasons" or "factors," to alleviate the difficulty.

The difference between "farther" and "further" delineates a physical distance versus a figurative distance. "Farther" defines a specific, scientifically proven distance, as in cars that travel farther on one tank of gas. "Further" is an intangible concept, such as employees who strive to go further for the customers.

"Principal" and "principle" are great words to use on a resume, within a cover letter or during an interview. Do not get them confused, or your future manager may wonder what you mean. A principle is a fundamental idea. For example, a company's principles include quality, service and the best prices. "Principal" talks about the placement of an important object or individual. A principal is the head of a firm or department.

Three pairs of words to watch out for include "their" and "they're," "its" and "it's," and "your" versus "you're." The words that do not have apostrophes are possessive pronouns that mean something or someone owns a particular concept. The words with apostrophes are contractions that are attached to conjugations of the verb "to be."

The differences between incorrectly used words and misspellings are subtle, but important. A misspelled word can be due to an honest mistake, a typo, an accident or lack of oversight. A misused word is written or said repeatedly, but the candidate does not know the word's proper context.

A resume is the first way to show your level of professionalism to a future boss. Once your polished resume passes, ensure your verbiage and diction are correct to show your future employer you know precisely how to communicate. A hallmark of great employees is the ability to communicate with everyone in the company.

Haden asserts that incorrectly used words make someone look and sound dumb. Ignorance in a job search is never bliss, so hone your vocabulary to earn the respect of your future manager.

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