Keywords in a resume

WHY YOU NEED KEYWORDS IN YOUR RESUME

Employers can be flooded with applications for roles they advertise, which is why many of them use application tracking systems (ATS). This clever software screens resumes and ranks them according to how well they match the job requirements. How? By identifying whether the words and phrases you use in your resume reflect those defined by the hiring manager for the role. Get past the hurdle of an ATS screen and you’re not done yet! You still need to ensure your resume catches the hiring manager’s attention, too.

This is why you need keywords in your resume. Here are a few tips to help your resume stand out to AI and human decision-makers.

Study the job ad/job description

Hiring managers populate their job ads and job descriptions with all sorts of keywords. These might include:

  • Software applications, e.g. Microsoft Office, Xero, Canva
  • Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork and time management
  • Hard skills, e.g. project management, copywriting, design
  • Qualifications, e.g. Bachelor of Engineering, Cert IV in Training & Assessment
  • Professional affiliations, e.g. CPA, AIPM

A savvy applicant will highlight the keywords in the job ad that appear relevant to the role – and then use them in their resume.

Tailor your resume to the role

There are several easy ways to incorporate keywords into your resume.

  • Include a short professional summary at the top of your resume and use relevant keywords for each job you apply for

If you are applying for a bookkeeper role that requires 10 years+ experience and a solid grasp of Xero, rewrite your professional summary to reflect these requirements

  • Consider a core competencies section that you can adapt to each different role

e.g. if the keywords in the job ad suggest that teamwork, people management and communication are important, ensure you feature all three in your core competencies section

  • Make sure you include relevant job titles for roles you have previously held

If a hiring manager is looking for an experienced client services manager, you should obviously demonstrate that you have held similar roles on your resume

  • Reflect the action verbs used in the job ad/description in the body of your resume, in your professional experience section

Action verbs will vary from one role to another, but here are a few examples: manage, design, coach, lead, support, plan

Don’t overstuff your resume with keywords! You are after a clear, compelling summary of your knowledge, skills and experience that reflects the requirements of the role.

Be true to yourself

Only include keywords that are relevant to you and your professional experience. Presenting yourself as someone else might get you through to interview stage, but it’s unlikely to win you the job.

Keywords are an important but often overlooked component of a good resume. Spend time on each job application and tailor it to specific role requirements and you’ll increase your chances of securing an interview – and a job.

To discuss current and upcoming career opportunities, contact the professional Optimal Recruitment team today on info@optimalrecruitment.com.au or 02 8416 4181.