Updating your resume is one of the first steps to kicking off a job search. Most jobseekers believe that adding a few powerful words or phrases will ensure their resume lands on the top of the stack when they apply for an opening. Often just the opposite is true, however. LinkedIn found that most people in the United States use the same "power words" when describing themselves on their resumes. If you want to stand out, here are 10 words and phases that should be avoided:

1. "extensive experience"
2. "innovative"
3. "motivated"
4. "results-oriented"
5. "dynamic"
6. "proven track record"
7. "team player"
8. "fast-paced"
9. "problem solver"
10. "entrepreneurial"

Rather than relying on these overused "power words," focus on these six powerful tips for improving the quality of your resume.

1. Include statistics and concrete information. The difference between "managed accounts receivable and accounts payable for a $10 million dollar corporation" and "maintained the books" is significant.  A recruiter will be able to easily translate your skills into valuable assets and separate your resume from the masses.
2. Use common writing tricks. Active, simple sentences trump verbose run-ons. Eliminate personal pronouns and articles. Write in the third person. Simplify your statements and maintain a clear voice.
3. Simple, clean design is key. Use a standard font between 10 and 12 point. Eliminate script or fonts that are difficult to read. Keep the formatting consistent so that your information is easily skimmed.
4. Organize. Your resume should be written in reverse chronological order. Use fonts and spacing to make your resume easy to read.
5. Edit and read aloud. Read for clarity, missing words and awkward sentence structure. Ask a trusted family member, friend or mentor to read over your resume for careless errors.
6. Keep it to one page. Your resume isn't an opportunity to list every single honor and job you've held. List your relevant experiences.

Image courtesy of Flickr user CharlotWest.