The Power of Words
As someone who works with words on a daily basis, I can tell you that finding new ways to say things can be a real challenge. If I used the same phrases every day, I’d get pretty boring pretty fast.
I occasionally catch myself falling into that trap. Recently, I noticed I was using the phrase “it’s kind of magical” to introduce just about everything. Once is fine. Twice is probably acceptable. Five days in a row? Houston, we have a problem. Even if it does get the point across.
A thesaurus used to be a writer’s best friend. Do they even make those anymore? These days, most of us simply ask Google for alternative ways to phrase something and hope inspiration strikes before our readers notice we’re repeating ourselves.
You may be thinking, “That’s all well and good, but I’m not a writer.” Maybe you don’t write articles, give speeches, or create content for the public. Maybe you’re just an average Joe trying to get through the workday.
The truth is that every one of us uses words to shape how we’re perceived.
Think about a résumé or a job interview. The way we describe our experience can make a big difference. Competition is tough, and sometimes all you have going for you is a willingness to work hard. No fancy title or corner office. No impressive management position.
Or so you think.
One enterprising job applicant found a much more creative way to describe his work.
Check this out:
The Interview
Did you catch it?
Personally, I had to laugh.
The driver introduced himself as an Executive Food Concierge with a Multi-International Hors d’oeuvre Delivery Service.
In plain English, he’s a DoorDash driver.
Honestly, I’d give the guy an interview just for originality. Anyone who can transform “I deliver takeout” into a title that sounds like it belongs on a corporate office door clearly understands the power of words. He found a way to highlight what he does while making people smile.
And that’s a skill in itself.
No, I wouldn’t recommend stretching the truth on a résumé, but there is something to be said for presenting yourself confidently and creatively. Sometimes the difference between sounding ordinary and sounding impressive is simply choosing better words.
What do you think? Is this clever marketing of personal skills, or would you roll your eyes if this résumé landed on your desk?
