Keywords for resumes are words that relate to particular requirements for a job. They can be skills, abilities, credentials, and qualities that a hiring manager looks for in a candidate. With the use of resume keywords, you can increase your chances of being hired.
When a hiring manager looks through a pile of resumes, he or she does not get more than 10 seconds to scan each resume. So they look for keywords. Many companies even use a software called Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), also known as Talent Management System, to screen candidates for job openings.
One way an ATS works is to eliminate resumes that are missing certain keywords. If the software or the hiring manager does not identify any of the keywords in your resume or cover letter within those 10 seconds of their scanning, your application might get shifted to the review later pile or the rejected pile.
By putting in keywords in your resume, you will be able to showcase to your prospective employers that you fit the requirements of the position. Thus, the importance of resume keywords is huge.
Below mentioned are more information on types of keywords, finding keywords, and using keywords in your resume. Also, you will be able to find a database of such important keywords on online resume building websites like cvdragon.com.
Where to find relevant keywords?
One way to find out what type of keywords recruiters use is to review 5 to 10 employment advertisements with similar job titles in your field and see which words are repeatedly mentioned. Once you notice a pattern, highlight and list the keywords employers mention and be sure to include them in your resume. These Keywords will often be in specific sections of the job listing, such as qualifications required and Job Responsibilities. Then, incorporate those keywords into your resume.
You might also check out the company website for possible keywords.
In the career section of the website, the company will use keywords to describe the job profile of the vacancy. For example, if the company has mentioned one of its requirements as “creative,” one keyword you might incorporate into your resume is “creative” or “creativity.”
You can also look online for lists of keywords. Also, you can take help from online resume building websites like cvdragon.com.
ALSO READ : HOW TO CREATE A GREAT RESUME SUMMARY SECTION IN 5 SIMPLE STEPS IMPORTANCE OF PROOFREADING
There are also certain skills and qualities that almost every employer looks for in a candidate. Check out that list of skills and try to incorporate some of them into your resume.
Be specific. Include keywords that are as closely related as possible to the requirements of the position you are applying for. The more focused and specific you are in your language, the better chance you’ll have at proving you are a good match.
Use as many keywords as possible. Make sure you have included the maximum of the keywords, if not all, that are most relevant to each position. Of course, do not use a skill keyword if you actually do not have that skill.
Put them everywhere. In order for an employer or ATS to find your keywords, distribute keywords throughout your resume. You might incorporate these words into your resume summary statement, past job descriptions, the skills section of your resume, and any other part of your resume that seems appropriate.
