Resume Synonyms for Pursue

Want another word for Pursue 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, "Pursue".

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

If you're applying for a job, you must show that you have the qualifications needed to perform successfully in the position. One way of doing so would be using the word 'pursue' in your resume. When you use this action verb, employers will know that you're a self-starter who takes the initiative and gets things done.

Writing a resume, you might find yourself tempted to use the word 'pursue' (the present form of the action verb 'pursued') on every bullet point. After all, this word means that you're goal-oriented and driven—but don't overuse it. Doing so creates a repetitive, monotonous tone that makes reading your resume difficult. Using the verb's past tense when describing past achievements is also essential.

You can correct this problem by replacing repetitive words with synonyms. For example, 'pursue' could be replaced with 'visualized,' 'completed,' or 'perfected.' This will help you avoid redundant language and simplify your resume.

Synonyms show diversity in writing style—they show that you're not afraid to try new things and experiment with different ways of expressing yourself. They also give you more options for crafting the perfect sentence or phrase to emphasize one aspect of an accomplishment over another.

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

Resume Synonyms for Pursue:

  • Investigated
  • Researched
  • Analyzed
  • Examined
  • Reviewed
  • Checked
  • Scrutinized
  • Probed
  • Engaged
  • Tracked
  • Attained
  • Reached
  • Masterminded
  • Completed
  • Visualized
  • Forged
  • Perfected
  • Constructed

How to replace Pursue with a stronger action verb:

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

Before: Weak example using Pursue

Pursued new sales opportunities using unique methods

After: Using a stronger synonymIgnited 55 new sales opportunities via inbound lead follow-up and cold calls/emails which converted 60% of leads to RW clients within 3 weeks..

Replacing Pursue with Explored

Before: Pursue

Pursued a new marketing strategy

After: ExploredExplored and implemented a new data-driven marketing strategy, leading to a 30% increase in online traffic and 15% rise in conversion rates within 6 months.

As a hiring manager, it's crucial to see specific results. I replaced 'Pursued' with 'Explored and implemented' as it not only depicts initiative usage but also successful execution. Added metrics provide quantifiable results, demonstrating effectiveness.

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 Pursue.


More resume bullet point samples that use strong synonyms

How to use Founded on a resume:

Founded ReferRoom to organize social events for 500 young professionals, and grew it to $20k/year revenue and $8k/year profit..

How to use Performed on a resume:

Performed a gap analysis by conducting a current state assessment to understand the inefficiencies associated with the existing manual business process.

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 Overhauled on a resume:

Overhauled the obsolete legacy source code of two production applications, resulting in increased usability and reduced run time performance by 50%.

How to use Led on a resume:

Led interview campaign with existing customers (300+ person survey, 40+ face-to-face discussions) to formulate requirements of a new product to help couples manage their expenses; outputs directly impacted product roadmap.

How to use Streamlined on a resume:

Streamlined the implementation process and reduced the average product delivery time from 10 days to 4 days by redefining responsibilities and improving accountability of employees.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for Pursue on a resume?

You should vary up your language on your resume, instead of using Pursue over and over again. Good synonyms to use instead include:

  • Analyzed
  • Attained
  • Completed
  • Checked
  • Researched

What is a better word for Pursue on a resume?

You can say Researched, or Constructed instead of Pursue.


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

If you have a version of your resume ready, remember to get it checked using our free resume scanner below. It will make sure all your action verbs are strong enough, and give you feedback on any mistakes you might have overlooked, so you can fix them before a recruiter sees them.



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