The Jobseeker's Key to Words

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Keywords, there are everywhere! But are they where they really count -- in your cover letter and resume? Companies are relying more and more on technology to sort their way through the stacks of resumes they receive. The traditional paper resume is not dead, but even those are scanned into a database for later searching. So, in order to get noticed, get savvy about using the power of KEYWORDS.

Keywords
In a traditional resume, your focus is on action verbs, and on explaining the positions you’ve held. Keyword resumes need to be searchable. To make sure yours is, use keywords—nouns and phrases that succinctly detail your skills and competencies. Recruiters also search for buzzwords or jargon that pertain to the position or industry, so be sure to include these.
Examples of keywords include: Microsoft, product management, SQL Server, HR, human resources, communications skills, MBA, technical writer, data delivery, administrative assistant, developing, creating.

Appropriate terminology
Most recruiters search for resumes using the terms listed in their ads. Use major job boards and corporate websites to research the kinds of keywords associated with jobs that interest you. Compare one ad to another to find similarities in the ways keywords are used. You’ll want to make sure your resume includes the most-used keywords.

Include a “skills” section
Place a “key skills” section at the top of your resume, and list all keywords, separated by commas or periods. Nouns should dominate your skills section. List all programs and software you know well, and highlight specific capabilities you have, such as communications skills, organizational skills, or management abilities. Keep your keyword summary to between 20 and 30 items. Listing them at the top of the resume gives the reviewer a quick idea of what he/she can expect to find throughout the rest of your resume.”

Using different keyword forms
If you used “coordination” in your skills summary, use “coordinate” in the body of your resume. In using different keyword forms, you’ll maximize the exposure your resume will receive.

Full keywords and acronyms
Utilize both complete-word keywords and acronyms. For example, your resume should include both “MBA” and “Masters in Business Administration,” or both “HR” and “Human Resources.” Try to cover all your bases.

What Makes a Good Keyword Resume?
A reasonable rule of thumb is to limit the number of keywords to 25-35. Their order is determined by their level of importance relative to the position a candidate is applying for. In these examples, the keywords regarding job industry and job titles have the highest level of importance, followed by specific skills, personal traits, ecducation, and work history.