Most employers use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to sort resumes. This software impacts candidates who get contacted for interviews.
ATS keywords are specific words or phrases relevant to the job requirements. Using these keywords throughout your resume helps it get noticed by an employer.
Understanding what an ATS looks for helps determine which keywords to include in your resume. The software scans the resumes and ranks candidates based on the keywords the employer chose most relevant to the job. Therefore, using these keywords throughout your resume shows you are well-qualified and should be contacted for an interview.
Implement these tips to determine which ATS keywords can help your resume get noticed and lead to an interview:
Review the Job Posting
Look for keywords included in the job description. Examples include education, skills, experience, preferred qualifications, and job duties and responsibilities. Use these ATS keywords throughout your resume.
Include Job-Specific Keywords
Ensure you include the keywords that are specific to the job. Examples include the company’s name and the exact job title. You might want these ATS keywords in your Summary Statement or Career Objective section.
Include your education, certifications, and licensing relevant to the job. Also, mention the hard skills needed for success in the role.
Use Industry Keywords
Conduct an online search to determine which keywords are relevant to your industry. For instance, you can google “[industry] resume keywords.” Include in your resume the keywords that are not given in the job description but reflect your relevant experience.
Strategically Place Your ATS Keywords
Emphasize the ATS keywords matching your strengths and highest experience level in your Summary Statement or Career Objective. Share relevant information about your degree and specific areas of study as well.
Include job-specific keywords in your Experience section. Also, list keywords related to your hard and soft skills relevant to the job and industry in your Skills section.
Write for the Hiring Manager
Ensure your resume can be skimmed and understood by the hiring manager. When your resume passes the ATS, the hiring manager will decide whether to contact you for an interview. Therefore, you need your information to be easily read and interpreted.
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