When you apply to a job, it is important that your resume include relevant keywords. Without it, your resume will not be as strong as those of people who use keywords, and it might even be overlooked entirely.
1. What Are Keywords?
Keywords are the words a company uses to describe skills, competencies and relevant credentials. If a job posting asks for strong team leadership and excellent communication skills, “team leadership” and “communication skills” are keywords. If it mentions expertise in a specific software or program, the names of the programs are keywords (such as “Microsoft Office” or “Slack”). If a posting mentions a master’s degree or certifications, “master’s degree” and the appropriate certification name are keywords.
2. Why They Are Important
A large percentage of employers now screen resumes using an automated tracking system (ATS). The ATS will, in all probability, be set up to reject any resumes that do not have the keywords the job posting mentions. In other words, if the company wants proficiency in Microsoft Access and you do not have any mention of it on your resume, it might be kicked out.
If the ATS kicks your resume out, a person — whether a hiring manager or human resources professional — will never see it. You will have no chance of an interview if that happens.
Even in the off chance an organization does not use an ATS, the human screener will still be looking for keywords, so make sure your skills, competencies and relevant credentials match those called for in the job description.
If you have worked at a leading company, it is good to be aware that employers will sometimes choose people who you have worked with at specific employers. Your resume should include the names of companies you have worked at previously.
3. How to Use Them
There are two crucial rules in using keywords in a resume.
First, use the exact terms the job posting does. If “multitasking” is a skill mentioned, an ATS may not necessarily know that “can handle multiple tasks efficiently” means the same thing. Remember, one of your goals is not to be eliminated. Do not run the risk of hitting an automated wastepaper basket.
Second, use keywords throughout. Your resume may include a summary, bullet points itemizing your achievements and short entries for each job chronologically. Use keywords in different places.
A Staffing Agency in Your Corner
Knowing how to develop a resume that maximizes your chance of getting the job is crucial to today’s job search. For more tips on resumes and how best to present yourself, contact Nesco Resource today.
