“Experience” is one of the most useful words for a resume, but are you tired of using it? Perhaps you’re looking for an alternative that might mix things up!
If you’re wondering how to say you have experience in other ways, this article is for you. We’ve compiled the best synonyms allowing you to find another way to say “experience.”
Experience Synonyms
- Well-versed
- Familiarity with
- Involvement in
- Participated in
- Ability to
- Trained
- Practiced
- Aware of
- Developed an understanding in
- Learned
- Skilled
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- “Experience” is a good word on a resume and is seen as a buzzword by many employers.
- “Well-versed” is a great one-word alternative you can use in a CV.
- Try “familiarity with” if you want a phrasal synonym that works well.
Keep reading to learn more about the synonyms for “experience.” We’ve touched on the best options and how they work in different contexts.
We’ve also included an explanation about “experience” on a resume at the end. It might interest you if you’ve come to learn more about it.
Well-Versed
“Well-versed” is a great term to include in a resume. It’s a very formal way to let someone know that you have knowledge or experience relating to a specific (or general) field.
Most employers will look positively at you for including something like this in your resume. It’s especially effective if you make it relevant to the job role you’re applying for.
For instance, you may say:
- I’m well-versed in Python.
When applying for a programming job (as it’s a programming language).
However, you shouldn’t say:
- Well-versed in French politics.
When applying for a server role at a local bowling alley.
Being “well-versed” in something is very relative. You should include it when you know it will further your career prospects and encourage an employer to hire you.
Also, the more things you’re well-versed in, the more an employer will see that you like to learn about things. This is a great strength that will put you in a very good position moving forward.
You can use “well-versed” or “experience” in your resume. Both are effective, so feel free to switch between them to mix things up.
These examples will show you more about how to use the term:
I am well-versed in many areas relating to this field. I have gained experience over time, allowing me to apply myself more today.
Being well-versed in C++, I believe I am the perfect candidate for a role such as this one.
Familiarity With
“Familiarity with” is a great example of a phrase to replace “experience.” You can include it in many formal contexts, such as a cover letter, resume, or email.
Most employers will seek candidates with specific familiarity with the field they are applying for. Therefore, you should make your “familiarity with” statement relevant to the job.
The more familiar you are with the job, the more likely an employer will hire you later. Therefore, it is a positive inclusion on a resume and a strength to show what you’ve learned from experience.
You should use “familiarity with” and “experience” in similar cases. They both work well, but “familiarity with” offers a phrasal alternative that might help make your sentences flow better.
You may benefit from checking out the following examples:
I have lots of familiarity with databases like the one you use. I’m keen to show you what I can do with it.
My familiarity with robotics allows me to research things that others might not be able to.
Is “Experience” a Good Resume Word?
“Experience” is a good resume word. It’s one of the most common terms you can use, making it a buzzword that most employers look for when reading new applications.
Of course, there is a problem with “experience” being as popular as it is. It becomes a little overused, which might take the weight away from the word. So, that’s why we put together a list of synonyms earlier in the article to help you.
Here is a quick example showing you how to use the phrase:
- I have experience in the fields associated with this role.
While “experience” is clearly a great word, there is always another word for “experience” that might help you. You should mix things up and switch between all the synonyms to keep things interesting for potential employers.
Bookmark this page if you want to remind yourself of the best alternatives. After all, they’ll allow you to spice up resumes and cover letters when you need to think of something besides “experience.”