Resume Synonyms for Obtain

Does your resume properly convey your ability to secure resources and results? While 'Obtain' gets the job done, more enterprising language can better highlight your talent for acquiring what you need to succeed. Let's explore proactive synonyms for 'Obtain' that showcase your go-getter abilities.

Using Obtain on a Resume

The term 'Obtain' is a simple yet powerful word that essentially means to get, acquire, or secure something. It's a term that signifies the successful achievement or procurement of something, whether it's a skill, an item, or an experience. In the context of a resume, 'Obtain' is often used to highlight the acquisition of skills, qualifications, or achievements. It's a word that communicates a sense of accomplishment and attainment. For instance, you might say you 'obtained' a degree, a certification, or a particular level of experience in your field. However, while 'Obtain' is a useful term, it isn't always the most impactful word to use on your resume. It can sometimes come across as passive or mundane, lacking the dynamism that many employers look for. Moreover, it doesn't necessarily convey the effort, initiative, or drive that went into acquiring the skill or achievement. Therefore, to make your resume more compelling and to truly showcase your abilities and experiences, it can be beneficial to consider using synonyms or alternative phrases. These can add variety to your language, capture the attention of potential employers, and ultimately, enhance the overall impact of your resume.

Tailor Your Resume Content to the Job Description

Match your resume to job descriptions easily with Teal Resume Matching.
Quickly compare your resume skills, experiences, and overall language to the job, before you apply.
Start Matching

Strong vs Weak Uses of Obtain

Examples of Using Obtain on a Resume

Strong
Results-driven professional with over 10 years of experience in the financial sector. Successfully obtained and managed key accounts leading to a 30% increase in annual revenue. Seeking to leverage my proven track record and expertise to obtain a challenging role in a growth-oriented company where I can contribute to business development and strategic planning.
Weak
I am looking for a job where I can obtain experience in the field of marketing. I have obtained a degree in Business Administration and have obtained some skills in digital marketing. I hope to obtain a position where I can use these skills.
Strong
  • Successfully led a team to obtain a 20% increase in sales within the first quarter, surpassing company targets.
  • Implemented strategic plans to obtain ISO 9001 certification for the company, improving overall quality management.
  • Coordinated with cross-functional teams to obtain necessary resources, ensuring timely completion of projects.
Weak
  • I had to obtain coffee and snacks for meetings.
  • My job was to obtain signatures from clients on documents.
  • I was responsible to obtain office supplies when they ran out.

How Obtain Is Commonly Misused

"Obtained a degree in business administration"

This statement is too generic and does not provide any specific information about the degree obtained or any relevant coursework or achievements. It is better to mention the specific degree obtained, any honors or awards received, and relevant coursework or projects completed. For example, "Earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a focus on marketing. Graduated with honors and completed coursework in strategic marketing, consumer behavior, and market research."

"Obtained a certification in project management"

While it may seem like a positive statement, it lacks impact and does not highlight any specific achievements or the significance of the certification. Instead, it is better to mention the specific certification obtained, any notable projects or initiatives led as a result of the certification, and the impact it had. For example, "Achieved certification in Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute. Successfully led a cross-functional team in the implementation of a new project management system, resulting in a 30% increase in project efficiency and cost savings of $100,000."

"Obtained a part-time job during college"

This statement is too vague and does not provide any specific information about the job obtained or any relevant skills or experiences gained. It is better to mention the specific job obtained, the responsibilities and tasks performed, and any notable achievements or skills developed. For example, "Secured a part-time position as a customer service representative at XYZ Company during college. Handled customer inquiries, resolved complaints, and maintained a high customer satisfaction rate of 95%. Developed strong communication and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment."

When to Replace Obtain with Another Synonym

Improving efficiency

Instead of using "Obtained," job seekers can use synonyms like "Improved," "Enhanced," or "Streamlined" to highlight their ability to optimize processes and increase productivity. These alternatives demonstrate their skills in identifying inefficiencies, implementing solutions, and achieving measurable results.

Acquiring new clients

When describing their experience in client acquisition, job seekers can opt for synonyms such as "Secured," "Gained," or "Attracted." These terms emphasize their ability to build relationships, generate leads, and convert prospects into loyal customers. Using these alternatives showcases their sales and networking skills, as well as their ability to contribute to business growth.

Earning certifications or qualifications

Instead of using "Obtained," job seekers can use synonyms like "Earned," "Achieved," or "Attained" to highlight their professional development and educational accomplishments. These alternatives convey a sense of dedication, commitment, and expertise in acquiring certifications, degrees, or other qualifications. Using these terms can help job seekers stand out as individuals who continuously invest in their own growth and improvement.

Best Resume Synonyms for Obtain

How to Replace Obtain with a Stronger, More Relevant Synonym

Moving forward with resume enhancement, it's vital to understand that while 'obtain' signifies acquisition or attainment, its usage should be deliberate and accurate. Not every acquisition or attainment-driven task equates to "obtaining". Sometimes, the nature, significance, or manner of your acquisition might be better articulated with a different term. When considering the most effective ways to refine the language on your resume, ponder the context and impact of your attainment. Did you secure a major contract? Procure essential resources? Achieve a critical certification? Each of these situations might call for a different, more precise term. As you explore opportunities to make language improvements on your resume, here are a few examples to help you replace 'obtain' in a way that is both honest and compelling.

Replacing Obtain in Your Resume Summary

Using Obtain

Motivated sales professional with a proven track record of success, seeking to obtain a challenging position that allows for growth and the opportunity to use my skills to drive sales and increase company revenue

Using a Strong Synonym

Dynamic sales professional with a proven track record of success, aiming to secure a challenging role that fosters professional growth, and leverages my skills to drive sales performance and boost company revenue.

Replacing Obtain in Your Work Experience

Using Obtain

  • Obtained a 20% increase in customer satisfaction ratings by implementing new customer service protocols.
  • Using a Strong Synonym

  • Secured a significant 20% boost in customer satisfaction ratings through the strategic implementation of innovative customer service protocols.
  • Powerful Obtain Synonyms for Different Job Categories

    Best Obtain Synonyms for Marketing Resumes

    Best Obtain Synonyms for Customer Service Resumes

    Find the Right Synonyms for Any Job

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the best replacement word for Obtain on a resume?

    The best replacement word for 'Obtain' on a resume could be 'Acquired'. It's a strong, active verb that shows you have gained something through your own efforts. For example, instead of saying "Obtained proficiency in Spanish," you could say "Acquired proficiency in Spanish."

    When is it ok to use Obtain on a resume?

    It's appropriate to use the word 'obtain' on your resume when you're discussing achievements or skills that you've acquired. For instance, you could say "Obtained proficiency in Spanish to enhance communication with international clients" or "Obtained certification in project management to improve project execution efficiency". It's a powerful verb that shows you've actively sought out and achieved something valuable.

    How can I guage if Obtain is relevant for my resume?

    "Obtain" is relevant for your resume if you're describing the acquisition of skills, certifications, or achievements. For example, "Obtained a certification in project management" or "Obtained top salesperson award three quarters in a row". It's a strong action verb that shows you've actively pursued and achieved something.

    Best Resume Synonyms for Obtain

    - Acquire: to gain possession or control of something through effort or action. - Attain: to achieve or reach a goal or objective. - Secure: to obtain or gain possession of something, often by taking necessary measures to ensure its safety or availability. - Procure: to obtain or acquire something, especially through special effort or by request. - Garner: to gather or collect something, typically through effort or careful selection. - Obtainment: the act of obtaining or acquiring something. - Achieve: to successfully accomplish or attain a desired result or goal. - Obtainment: the act of obtaining or acquiring something. - Acquirement: the act of acquiring or gaining possession of something. - Win: to achieve or obtain something through effort, competition, or success. - Earn: to gain or receive something, typically through hard work, skill, or merit. - Capture: to seize or take possession of something, often by force or skill. - Secure: to obtain or gain possession of something, often by taking necessary measures to ensure its safety or availability. - Realize: to achieve or obtain something that was desired or expected. - Procurement: the act of obtaining or acquiring something, often through a formal process or negotiation.

    Which Job Titles use Obtain the Most?

    Top 5 titles/functions with the most mentions of Obtain on their resume:

    Tools to Improve Your Resume Language for Greater Impact