Resume Synonyms for Obtain
Want another word for Obtain 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, 'Obtain'.
InterviewPal Career Team
Resume Experts • 10+ Years Experience
The word "obtain" describes the act of acquiring or getting something through effort or request. While it's a common verb, using "obtain" on your resume can make your accomplishments sound passive and unremarkable.
"Obtain" is not necessarily a bad word to have on your resume—it's just not as powerful as other action verbs that demonstrate initiative, strategy, and results. It often fails to convey the effort, skill, or methodology behind your achievements.
Instead of using the word "obtain," use dynamic action verbs that show how you actively pursued and achieved results. When writing a resume, consider verbs that highlight your proactive approach, strategic thinking, and the value you brought to the process.
Strong resume language should demonstrate your impact and methodology. Rather than simply stating you "obtained" something, show how you earned, secured, or achieved it through specific actions and skills.
I've compiled powerful synonyms you can use instead of "Obtain" that will make your resume more compelling and demonstrate your proactive approach to achieving goals and securing results.
Better Alternatives to Use Instead
Choose the right synonym based on your context. Click any word to see usage tips and copy it to your clipboard.
Secured
Best used when you successfully acquired something competitive or valuable through strategic effort, particularly funding, partnerships, or high-value contracts where competition was involved
Acquired
Most effective when describing the strategic acquisition of assets, skills, knowledge, or resources that required planning and deliberate action
Earned
Perfect for accomplishments that required merit, performance, or meeting specific criteria, such as certifications, awards, or recognition
Generated
Ideal when you created or produced something valuable, particularly revenue, leads, or measurable outcomes through your actions
Achieved
Best for goal-oriented accomplishments where you successfully reached targets, milestones, or objectives through sustained effort
Captured
Most effective when describing competitive wins, market share gains, or successfully taking something from competitors
Procured
Perfect for formal acquisition processes, particularly in procurement, sourcing, or when obtaining resources through official channels
Negotiated
Best when you obtained something through discussion, compromise, or deal-making that required interpersonal skills and strategic thinking
Cultivated
Ideal when describing the gradual development of relationships, partnerships, or opportunities that required time and nurturing
Delivered
Perfect when you successfully provided or produced expected results, particularly when meeting commitments or client expectations
Attained
Best for reaching specific levels, standards, or qualifications that required sustained effort and meeting criteria
Garnered
Ideal for collecting recognition, support, or positive outcomes through your efforts and performance
Realized
Perfect when you made something concrete or actual, particularly turning plans or potential into tangible results
Clinched
Best for decisive victories or securing something important in competitive situations
Landed
Ideal for securing opportunities, contracts, or positions that were competitive or difficult to get
Sourced
Perfect when you found and acquired resources, talent, or materials through research and networking
Captured
Best for winning something in competitive situations or taking market position from competitors
Collected
Ideal when you gathered multiple items, data points, or resources through systematic effort
Recruited
Perfect when you obtained human resources or talent through active searching and persuasion
Established
Best when you created and obtained something new that serves as a foundation for future work
Facilitated
Ideal when you obtained results by making processes easier or removing obstacles for others
Orchestrated
Perfect when you obtained complex results by coordinating multiple elements or people strategically
Spearheaded
Best when you led the effort to obtain something significant, taking initiative and driving results
Mobilized
Ideal when you obtained resources by organizing and activating people or assets for a specific purpose
Leveraged
Perfect when you obtained results by strategically using existing resources, relationships, or advantages
How to replace Obtain with a stronger action verb:
Let's look at examples of how you can remove and replace the overused phrase,Obtain, with a stronger synonym and alternative that is more effective at highlighting your achievements.
Pro Tips for Resume Writing
Let's look at examples of how you can remove and replace the overused phrase with a stronger synonym and alternative that is more effective at highlighting your achievements.
Quantify Everything
Numbers make your achievements concrete. Instead of "improved sales," say "boosted sales by 45%." Metrics are memorable.
Start with Action Verbs
Every bullet point should begin with a strong action verb. This immediately shows initiative and makes your resume more dynamic.
Avoid Repetition
Don't use the same action verb twice. Variety keeps recruiters engaged and showcases the breadth of your skills.
Match the Context
Choose synonyms that match your actual role. Leadership words for leading, collaboration words for teamwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let's look at examples of how you can remove and replace the overused phrase with a stronger synonym and alternative that is more effective at highlighting your achievements.
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