Keywords Make A Difference

If you’re looking for a new job, using the proper terminology can make all the difference. Cover letters and resumes need essential keywords so they can be found by recruiters and hiring managers. Read on to learn more.

Using the Right Resume Keywords to Land a Job Interview

Building a great resume is essential for job hunters, as it is the main tool recruiters use to determine whether or not an applicant is right for a position. Using resume keywords is crucial if you want employers to pay attention to your application. Both the cover letter and resume should include industry specific keywords to increase your chances of landing a job interview.

Keywords are short phrases and terms that apply to specific jobs or industries. Keywords, sometimes referred to as buzzwords, can be qualities, credentials, abilities, and/or skills that a hiring manager is looking for. Including relevant keywords in your resume, cover letter, and application as a whole, can show a hiring manager that you are not only knowledgeable in your field, but also that you have thoroughly read the job description and know what the employer is looking for.

Hiring managers often scan the pile of resumes laid out in front of them for keywords. Some of these may have been included in the job posting, and some may be more unique. In addition to a manual scan, most companies have taken to using automated systems referred to as Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Companies use these systems to screen potentially hundreds of resumes and cover letters, and weed out those they deem irrelevant.   

Resume Keyword Types

Include relevant keywords in both your resume and cover letter. Things like credentials, competencies, and skills can all be considered keywords.

As an example, if someone were to apply for a position involving Employee Benefits Management, resume keywords could include the following:

• Benefit policy
• Healthcare benefits
• Employee benefit plans

As another example, Customer Representative keywords could include the following:

• Order entry experience
• Computer skills
• Customer tracking systems
• Customer service

How to Find Keywords

To search for keywords that should be included in a cover letter and resume, look for job postings that match the job for which you are searching. These buzzwords can be scanned relatively easily within job postings that match your experience and background. Hiring managers will usually sprinkle in these phrases or keywords in a job posting under the “responsibilities” and “qualifications” sections.

You may also be able to find important keywords on the website of the company for which you hope to work. In addition to the job listing, check the “About Us” page on the website to see how they phrase certain terms and follow suit.   

Keyword Resume Tips

Here are a few pointers on using keywords:

• Be sure to use keywords in both your cover letter and resume.
• Use different kinds of keywords, including certifications, industry buzzwords, hard skills, and soft skills. This will show how diverse your qualities are.
• Familiarize yourself completely with the value proposition of the company to which you are applying. This is what sets them apart from their competition. Pay attention to how they describe themselves, and try to incorporate some of this terminology into your application.
• Use specific keywords that relate closely to the particular job you’re applying for.

USA Resume Knows the Importance of Keywords

USA Resume knows all the ins and outs when it comes to using keywords in a cover letter and resume. To help give you the best possible opportunity to land a job interview, work with the experts at USA Resume. Contact us today to learn more.