What Kind of Keywords Should You Use on an Executive Resume?

Having the right keywords for your resume is incredibly important, especially in regard to high level career positions for C-level executives. A C-level executive is anyone looking for a career in what is commonly referred to as the C-Suite. The C-Suite of jobs are anyone with a ‘C’ of title of Chief in their job name. For example, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Operating Officer are all C-level executive positions. While resumes for mid-level management or junior level positions may have a little more sway in regard to their use of keywords by hiring managers, C-level positions always carry with them a higher standard.

If you are looking to step into a career as a Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Learning Officer, or other C-level positions, it is imperative that your resume uses proper keywords for your industry and job level. We highly recommend that anyone moving into or within a career in the C-suite utilizes a professional resume writing service to produce their document. 

If you are a got-it-alone type of individual, here are some steps you should follow to achieve the proper keywords that are commonly used within the sphere of C-level applicants:1. Focus on Quality

In most cases, there is a lot less competition in terms on quantity in regard to C-level positions. There is no doubt, however that a C-level role carries heavy weight in regard to the demands of a top notch resume. C-suite careers demand a certain level of experience, knowledge, and leadership and in turn carry greater responsibilities. A serious applicant must breakdown every piece of their resume to ensure that it is the best it can possibly be. The expectation is that a C-level candidate will present themselves in a higher regard and as such must utilize the right keywords for the role. It is not necessary to overcomplicate the process. Instead, make sure that the keywords you choose apply to the role you are applying for and that they represent the higher caliber of performance that will be expected of the ideal candidate.

2. Choose Industry Specific Keywords

In many cases, even for C-level ranking positions, companies will utilize the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to scan and filter your resume. The ATS will look for purposeful keywords that are predetermined by the hiring manager or board of directors. Understanding the role you are applying for is key to your success in picking the ideal keywords for the job. Try to be specific to the nuances of the industry you are applying for, and stay away from common, broad, and overly used keywords.

Some examples of effective keywords for C-Suite Resumes are:

• Revenue Growth
• Profit Maximization
• Corporate Administration
• Organizational Leadership
• New Business Development
• Strategic Planning
• Budget Forecasting
• Financial Planning
• Performance Optimization

Some examples of action words that should be used in conjunction with C-level keywords are:

• Produced
• Reduced
• Developed
• Yielded
• Engineered
• Spearheaded
• Consolidated
• Implemented
• Launched

Using the proper keywords for your role is critical. Using them alongside the appropriate action words then elevates your resume and communicates the level of action taken in regard to the selected keyword.

3. Go Pro: Hire a Professional Resume Writing Service

If you have read this far and are starting to rethink your DIY plan – you aren’t alone. Crafting an intentional and successful resume can be daunting and intimidating, especially when considering outside forces like the ATS that can have a negative impact on your resume’s chances. You know you are a professional in your own field, so why not trust a professional in the resume field? Choosing to hire a professional resume writing service is an investment in yourself and your future. Legitimate resume writing services in Houston TX such as USA Resume have industry specific experience and the knowledge of the recruiting and hiring process that enables them to compile a job-winning resume. 

4. Make Relevant Networking Connections

Aside from consulting with or hiring a professional resume writing service in Houston, TX, as in our example, seeking our and initialing connections with others in similar roles for non-competitive industries can be a confidence and knowledge building experience. Connections are easy to make in today’s world, especially in the professional world with the advent of online social networks like LinkedIn. They may be able to provide tips on interviewing for your role, proper keywords that they have utilized, and other experiences that may benefit you.

If you choose to go it alone with your resume, we hope you follow the tips we have outlined above. Doing so will ensure you have a better chance at creating the proper document that will positively impact your career. Do the proper research, put in the intentional effort and thought of effective keyword usage, and if necessary, hire a professional resume writing service to create your resume!

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