Resume Synonyms for Assist

Want another word for Assist to use on your resume? Our team's compiled the most effective action verbs and synonyms you can use instead of the overused resume phrase, "Assist".

Kimberley Tyler Smith Author Photo
Compiled by: Kimberley Tyler-Smith
Senior Hiring Manager
20+ Years of Experience

The term 'assist' is the present form of the resume word assisted, which means to give support. Many people use this word because it is a way for them to demonstrate that they are willing to help others, even if they do not have a substantial role or responsibility in that area.

Using the verb assist also allows candidates to focus on what they did and how they did it, rather than how they would like others to see themselves or their role on the team. But, it's best to use action verbs in your resume that describe what you did and how it helped achieve the desired outcome. Additionally, your resume should generally use the past tense of assist ('assisted') unless you describe an ongoing role.

To give a more detailed description of your work experience and how valuable those experiences were for your previous employers, try using power verbs instead of generic terms. Words to use on resume instead of 'assist' includes 'diversified,' 'promoted,' and 'ministered.'

When you use power verbs, you can show the recruiter exactly your responsibilities in previous roles and help them understand the impact of your work, which is crucial for getting hired.

I've compiled some synonyms you can use instead of Assist on your resume, followed by real examples I've written for clients (feel free to use them!).

Resume Synonyms for Assist:

  • Adapted
  • Advocated
  • Aided
  • Bolstered
  • Collaborated
  • Diversified
  • Emboldened
  • Energized
  • Harmonized
  • Melded
  • Ministered
  • Nurtured
  • Promoted
  • Stimulated
  • United

How to replace Assist with a stronger action verb:

Let's look at examples of how you can remove and replace the overused phrase, Assist, with a stronger synonym and alternative that is more effective at highlighting your achievements.

Before: Weak example using Assist

Assist in preparing monthly, quarterly, and annual productivity reporting

After: Using a stronger synonymStreamlined the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual productivity reporting, reducing the number of review and input processes by 80% and increasing efficiency by 25%.

Replacing Assist with Facilitated

Before: Assist

Assist in the design and implementation of company marketing strategies

After: FacilitatedFacilitated the design and implementation of innovative marketing strategies, leading to a 35% increase in brand recognition and a 30% increase in sales within the first quarter

Rather than merely assisting, 'Facilitated' shows that you played a crucial role in the planning and execution. The added metrics give a clear impact of your contribution to the company.

Tip: I've prepared a ton of additional examples for you to give you inspiration. Please click on any of the following to expand and see real examples of how I've rewritten client bullet points.


How to use these synonyms in practice

We've put together an infographic to give you more examples of how to put this into practice. Note the use of strong action verbs instead of words like Assist.


More resume bullet point samples that use strong synonyms

How to use Designed on a resume:

Designed and implemented operational efficiency improvement program for leading UK energy supplier to reduce rate of energy outages by 60% in three years.

How to use Performed on a resume:

Performed financial analysis to evaluate public and private financing alternatives to strengthen client's balance sheet.

How to use Conducted on a resume:

Conducted competitor benchmarking analysis, competitor/distributor interviews and data analysis to determine that the existing sustained decline in a luxury skincare product business was reversible, building the case for a successful $150MM acquisition.

How to use Optimized on a resume:

Optimized production line, resulting in 10% throughput increase and standardized processes in bulk production.

How to use Created on a resume:

Created method to compute similarity of all methods in a code base; reduced time complexity from O(n2) to O(n log n).

How to use Managed on a resume:

Managed user engagement analytics strategy, providing first insight into how users interact with our apps on their tablets and mobile devices.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for Assist on a resume?

If you're looking for another word to use in place of Assist, consider using one of these stronger alternatives:

  • United
  • Advocated
  • Ministered
  • Promoted
  • Stimulated
  • Diversified

What can I say instead of Assist on a resume?

Instead of passive phrases like Assist, use other words like Advocated, Emboldened, Promoted, Adapted, Stimulated or Bolstered. Using these verbs will help your accomplishments and bullet points stand out on your resume.


Get a free resume review: Find out if your action verbs are strong enough.

I'd recommend uploading your resume below to get a free resume review. You'll get a detailed analysis of your resume's action verbs and your experience, with instant suggestions on how to improve them based on recruiter insights.



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