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Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer, so it’s essential that it doesn’t put them to sleep OR leave them confused about why you applied for the job in the first place.
Don’t let your resume and cover letter become the reason why a manager takes a mid-morning nap:
How can you pique the interest of the hiring manager (and ensure that your resume gets past the automatic tracking systems)?
It’s KEYWORDS, baby! Keywords to the rescue!
Keywords help to ensure that your resume and cover letter accurately reflect your skills and experience. One way to make sure your resume stands out is by including relevant keywords. Keywords are the words and phrases that employers use to search for candidates in their applicant tracking systems (ATS) or when conducting a manual search.
Let’s talk about how to identify and research which relevant keywords you should include on your resume to increase your chances of getting noticed…and a new job!
Step 1: Review Job Postings
The first step in identifying relevant keywords for your resume is to review job postings in your field. Look for common themes in the job descriptions, including required skills, experience, and education. Pay attention to the language used in the job posting and make a note of any specific terms or phrases that are used repeatedly. These are likely to be keywords that you should include in your resume.
Step 2: Research Industry-Specific Keywords
In addition to reviewing job postings, it’s essential to research industry-specific keywords. These are keywords that are commonly used in your field, such as specific technical skills, software programs, or certifications. To find industry-specific keywords, look for professional organizations or associations in your field and review their websites and publications. You can also search for articles or blog posts related to your industry to identify commonly used terms and phrases.
Step 3: Use Tools to Identify Additional Keywords
There are several online tools that you can use to identify additional keywords for your resume. One such tool is Google AdWords Keyword Planner, which is designed to help advertisers identify relevant keywords for their campaigns. To use this tool, enter a few relevant phrases related to your field or job and review the suggested keywords. You can also use tools like Jobscan, which analyzes your resume and compares it to the job posting to identify relevant keywords.
Step 4: Incorporate Keywords into Your Resume
Once you have identified relevant keywords for your resume, it’s essential to incorporate them strategically. Don’t just include a long list of keywords at the bottom of your resume. Instead, incorporate keywords naturally throughout your resume, including in your summary statement, work experience, and skills sections. Use the exact language from the job posting when possible (but don’t just copy and paste the whole thing, of course), and be sure to prioritize the most relevant keywords.
Identifying and researching relevant keywords for your resume is a critical step in the job search process. By incorporating relevant keywords, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by employers and ultimately landing your dream job. Follow these four steps to identify and incorporate relevant keywords into your resume, and you’ll be well on your way to success.
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