Resume Synonyms for Demonstrate

Want another word for Demonstrate 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, "Demonstrate".

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

Demonstrate means to show or prove. In a resume context, it's used to capture that a person has the skill set needed for specific positions and responsibilities—you can take something from inception through implementation rather than talk about what you would do.

It's a great way to showcase your abilities so recruiters can see how well you've performed in prior positions. However, the repeated use of the word 'demonstrate' in your resume will make it seem like you lack the ability to express yourself and could bore hiring managers who are scanning for keywords.

It's often a good idea to substitute synonyms for frequently used words in your resume and use the past tense when describing accomplishments from your past. For instance, you can replace the word 'demonstrate' with other words such as 'proved,' 'exceeded,' or 'simplified.'

In a job application, it's essential to demonstrate that you can do what you say you can. If your resume lists one thing after another without any variety or change in style, this can come across as lazy or unprofessional. Using synonyms can help you avoid this problem, as well as show off your vocabulary without sacrificing clarity or brevity!

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

Resume Synonyms for Demonstrate:

  • Proved
  • Exceeded
  • Exemplified
  • Determined
  • Examined
  • Tested
  • Validated
  • Sustained
  • Illustrated
  • Simplified
  • Substantiated
  • Documented
  • Verified
  • Communicated
  • Clarified
  • Interpreted
  • Publicized
  • Translated
  • Explained

How to replace Demonstrate with a stronger action verb:

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

Before: Weak example using Demonstrate

Demonstrated ability to come up with innovative ways to reduce costs

After: Using a stronger synonymReduced design costs by 25 percent by creating a plan to merge related products into one, more streamlined product. .

Replacing Demonstrate with Showcased

Before: Demonstrate

Demonstrated strong project management skills.

After: ShowcasedShowcased strong project management skills by completing a $1.4M project 3 months ahead of schedule, resulting in a 15% increase in productivity.

To improve this bullet point, I injected a number that quantifies the success I achieved. 'Showcased' was a more specific action verb that helped clarify the initiative and leadership I took.

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 Demonstrate.


More resume bullet point samples that use strong synonyms

How to use Led on a resume:

Led consolidation of 8 data systems into 1; resulted in over $55k in annual savings.

How to use Developed on a resume:

Developed an iPhone app to help medical professionals measure the insulin needs of patients with diabetes.

How to use Conducted on a resume:

Conducted sector research in TMT space through expert interviews, market reports, and engagement with external advisors; created sector map of big data analytics space; prepared recommendations on attractiveness and feasibility on 6+ prospects.

How to use Handpicked on a resume:

Handpicked by global head of operations from among 50+ senior associates to lead first-ever strategic alliance project with Company in Hong Kong.

How to use Analyzed on a resume:

Analyzed fundamental growth drivers via top-down (macro/sector trends, competition) and bottom-up (growth strategy, revenue forecast, cost allocation) approaches, and analysis of senior management and shareholding structure..

How to use Managed on a resume:

Managed business relationships with 10 clients, including Volkswagen, Deutsche Bank and McDonalds and presented marketing strategies to senior management to drive ROI and re-engineer sales operations, generating $2MM+ in annual revenue.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for Demonstrate on a resume?

Synonyms you can use instead of the overused phrase Demonstrate include:

  • Simplified
  • Proved
  • Substantiated
  • Explained
  • Translated
  • Communicated

What can I use instead of Demonstrate on a resume?

Words like Demonstrate are overused on resumes. Instead, you should use other phrases like Exceeded, Substantiated, Illustrated, Verified, Exemplified or Publicized.


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

Don't forget to upload your resume to the tool below for a free resume review. Our platform will instantly scan it for common things hiring managers look for and tell you where it falls short. You'll get instant feedback on your action verbs, bullet points and skills.



Related resume examples

Customer Service

Customer Success

Sales Associate

Get a free resume review

job hunt

Get expert feedback on your resume, instantly. Our free AI-powered resume checker scores your resume on key criteria recruiters and hiring managers look for. Get actionable steps to revamp your resume and land more interviews.

Upload Resume
Transform your career. In 5 minutes a week.
~~
Get a free bi-weekly coaching email from a $750/hour career coach. Get proven strategies on how to unlock your career's potential, meet VIPs in your industry and turn your career into a rocketship.
Join the 1.2+ million professionals who are getting ahead in their careers, for free.
I'm not interested, let me read the article >