How to use keywords when writing a resume
Imagine a stack of resumes on a recruiter’s desk. With a large number of applications for a vacancy, it is not difficult to imagine that recruiters skimming through all sections of the CV, trying to find words or resume phrases in them that meet the requirements of the employer.
From this we conclude that some summary may simply not be noticed. However, knowing the possibility of such an outcome, you can increase the chances that your resume will be noticed. So how do you show that you are not just the right candidate, but the best candidate?
There is a concept of keywords that are used when writing a resume to make it targeted to the selected vacancy and attractive to hiring managers.
In addition, many companies can use special candidate management systems or ATS (Applicant Tracking System). ATS software automatically scans incoming resumes for certain information on the given keywords, and those resumes where they are in the required quantity, the system saves, and filters out the rest.
What are resume keywords?
Resume keywords are words or phrases that you will use on your resume to clearly indicate that you fit the job description and the candidate’s expectations.
Most often, this is a certain work experience, skills, qualities and other details that the employer wants to see in a future employee.
Without the presence of keywords, the resume is simply not attractive and does not emphasize the relevance of your resume. It lacks the main thing that an employer is looking for in candidates. This means that resumes may not be considered and they may not notice how well you fit into a certain position.
Keywords/phrases – can be completely different words from the job description. These are not only some programs or names of qualities, it can be a location, names of companies, positions, etc. It depends on what information is key for the employer.
Here are some examples of keywords:
- Industry Skills – Social Media Management,
event planning and logistics coordination; - Personal qualities – leadership, communication skills, creativity, ability to work with problem clients, team management;
- Programs – Adobe Suite, Powerpoint, Microsoft Office;
- Job Titles – Customer Service Representative, WordPress Developer, Chemical Engineer;
- Training and certification – TOEFL, IELTS, transport license, ISTQB certificate;
- Education – Doctor of Science, Master of Philosophy, Candidate of Medical Sciences;
- Professional slang – working with deadlines, attracting followers;
- Company names – in the job description there may be an emphasis on previous jobs, check this and indicate if necessary;
- Location – here can be a postal code, city name, areas that are important for the company.
Remember, in order for the phrases and words in your resume to be key, you need to indicate them as close as possible in meaning and spelling to those in the job description.
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