12 Exciting Synonyms for ‘Pursue’ To Spice Up Your Resume

Your resume gets seconds, not minutes.

Eye-tracking research from The Ladders shows that recruiters scan a resume for just 6-8 seconds before deciding whether it is worth a deeper read.

In that moment, weak or repetitive language can cost you attention, even if your experience is strong.

That is why word choice matters.

“Pursue” is one of the most commonly used resume verbs to signal ambition and initiative. It appears in bullet points describing career growth, learning, leadership, and long-term goals.

The problem is not the meaning. It is the repetition. When the same word shows up again and again, your achievements start to blur together.

The fix is simple and strategic. Swap “pursue” for sharper, role-specific alternatives that convey action, ownership, and results.

Below are strong, resume-ready synonyms for “pursue,” along with examples to help you use each one correctly.

What are Some "Pursue" Synonyms?

Listed below are unique synonyms for the word ‘pursue’ that you can use in your resume and impress the recruiters:

Chase

If you are in the sales and business development sector, 'chase' takes center stage, fitting perfectly in industries where pursuing new opportunities and clients is paramount.

Example: "Chased and secured high-value contracts, resulting in a 30% increase in revenue."

Embark

When it comes to entrepreneurial endeavors and startups, 'embark' signifies the journey of beginning something new and exciting.

Example: "Embarked on a groundbreaking project that transformed market perceptions and captured a 15% market share."

Also read: 10 Synonyms for ‘Conduct’ to Enhance Your Resume

Explore

In roles requiring innovation and creativity, 'explore' is the word to use. It's suitable in industries such as marketing and product development.

Example: "Explored fresh marketing strategies, leading to a 25% increase in online engagement."

Undertake

To showcase your accomplishments in project management and leadership, 'undertake' conveys a sense of responsibility and accountability.

Example: "Undertook the role of project lead, successfully delivering projects on time and within budget."

Foster

In team collaboration and relationship-building, 'foster' shines, particularly in HR and community-focused industries.

Example: "Fostered a culture of open communication and collaboration, resulting in a 20% increase in team productivity."

Also read: 250+ Resume Action Words & Power Verbs That Will Transform Your Resume

Navigate

For roles involving complex problem-solving and strategy development, 'navigate' is your go-to word.

Example: "Navigated a challenging market landscape, devising strategies that increased market share by 10%."

Pursuit

'Pursuit' itself is a synonym for 'pursue,' but it adds a different flavor to your resume. It's effective in roles that emphasize determination and dedication.

Example: "Demonstrated unwavering pursuit of excellence, resulting in consistent client satisfaction."

Venture

If you are speaking entrepreneurship and startup lingo in your resume, 'venture' signifies the spirit of embarking on innovative projects and endeavors.

Example: "Ventured into new markets, successfully establishing a global presence and driving revenue growth."

Also read: 10+ Ways to Say 'Execute' in Your Resumes, Cover Letters, & More

Engage

In customer-centric roles and community engagement, 'engage' is the word to convey active involvement.

Example: "Engaged with customers to gather feedback, leading to product improvements and increased loyalty."

Drive

For roles that require motivation and determination, 'drive' is a powerful synonym that adds vigor to your resume.

Example: "Drove cross-functional teams to exceed project goals, showcasing leadership and dedication."

Embolden

In leadership and empowerment roles, 'embolden' signifies the ability to inspire and motivate others.

Example: "Emboldened team members to take on new challenges, resulting in increased innovation and productivity."

Advocate

In roles involving social impact and advocacy, 'advocate' represents a commitment to making a difference.

Example: "Advocated for sustainable practices within the organization, leading to a 15% reduction in environmental footprint."

Also read: What are Some Great Synonyms for 'Achieve' That Can Be Used in Resumes and Cover Letters?

What are Some Mistakes to Avoid When Using ‘Pursue’ Synonyms?

When incorporating these dynamic synonyms into your resume, it's crucial to avoid common pitfalls that could diminish their impact. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overuse: While synonyms can add variety, don't overdo it. Balance is key; using too many synonyms can make your resume seem forced and less readable.

• Inaccurate Usage: Ensure that the synonym you choose accurately reflects your achievements. Using an inappropriate synonym can confuse employers and undermine your credibility.

• Lack of Specifics: Always provide concrete examples and quantifiable data to support your statements. These synonyms should enhance, not replace, the evidence of your accomplishments.

• Inconsistency: Maintain consistency in your language and tone throughout your resume. Mixing formal and informal language can be distracting.

• Ignoring Proofreading: Even the most dynamic synonyms won't save your resume from errors. Always proofread carefully to catch any grammatical or spelling mistakes.

Also read: How to use resume buzzwords effectively?

To Sum It Up

Employing synonyms such as 'chase,' 'venture,' or 'advocate' gives your accomplishments a vibrant touch, making them catch the eye of prospective employers.

Remember, your aim isn't just to chase success but to embody it fully. So, why settle for the usual when you can present your achievements in a more compelling fashion?

Embrace these synonyms, elevate your resume, and craft a career narrative that leaves a lasting impression!

If you want help applying these improvements consistently, Hiration offers a set of career tools that support resume building and review, interview practice, LinkedIn profile optimization, and cover letter creation.

Together, these tools help ensure your experience is communicated clearly and consistently across every stage of the job search.