Get Past the ATS with Powerful Resume Keywords

In today’s job market, employers notice candidates who have a good resume. Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen and filter resumes before human eyes even see them.
To improve your chances of passing the first screening, learn how ATS works and use resume keywords effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of ATS resume keywords, covering what they are, why they matter, and how to use them to your advantage.

What is an ATS?

An ATS, or Applicant Tracking System, is a software tool that automates the recruitment and hiring process for organizations. It serves as the first line of defense for employers, helping them manage and streamline the overwhelming number of resumes they receive for job openings. ATS software is designed to scan and filter resumes based on specific criteria set by the employer. These criteria often include keywords related to skills, qualifications, and experience.

How Does an ATS Work?

ATS systems work by parsing and analyzing the content of resumes submitted by applicants. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:

1. Resume Submission: Job seekers submit their resumes through an online application system or email.
2. Parsing: The ATS parses (or reads) the resume to extract relevant information such as contact details, work history, education, and skills.
3. Keyword Matching: The ATS compares the extracted information to a predefined set of keywords and criteria established by the employer.
4. Ranking: Resumes are assigned a score based on how well they match the keywords and criteria.
5. Filtering: Resumes with low scores are often rejected or placed in a separate folder for further review by HR professionals.

It’s important to note that the majority of large organizations and many smaller ones use ATS systems to streamline their hiring processes. Therefore, understanding how ATS works and how to optimize your resume for it is crucial.

Why Do You Need ATS Resume Keywords?

In the digital age, recruiters and hiring managers are inundated with resumes for each job posting. To efficiently manage this influx, they rely on ATS technology to filter out applicants who do not meet specific qualifications or possess the required skills. If your resume doesn’t include the right keywords, it may get discarded before a human ever sees it.

Here’s why ATS resume keywords are essential:

1. Increased Visibility: Including relevant keywords in your resume increases the likelihood of your application being selected for further review.
2. Time-Efficiency: ATS systems save recruiters time by automating the initial screening process, enabling them to focus on the most promising candidates.
3. Consistency: ATS software ensures that all applicants are evaluated based on the same criteria, reducing bias and promoting fairness in the hiring process.

In short, ATS resume keywords are the key to getting your foot in the door and advancing to the next stage of the hiring process.

How to Use and Find Resume Keywords to Get Your Resume ATS Ready

Now that you understand the significance of ATS in the job application process, let’s explore how to make your resume ATS-friendly.

Scan a Job Posting for Keywords

One of the most effective ways to identify the right keywords for your resume is to carefully analyze the job posting for the position you’re applying for. Employers often include a list of qualifications, skills, and requirements they seek in an ideal candidate. These are the keywords you should focus on. Pay close attention to phrases and terms that appear multiple times in the job description.

Divide Keywords into Skills and Experience

Once you’ve identified the keywords in the job posting, categorize them into two main groups: skills and experience.

1. Skills Keywords: These are specific skills or competencies that the employer is looking for. Examples might include “project management,” “data analysis,” “programming languages,” or “customer service.”
2. Experience Keywords: Experience keywords pertain to your previous job titles, responsibilities, and accomplishments. For instance, if the job posting emphasizes “sales management,” you should ensure that your resume reflects your experience in sales management roles.

How to Tailor Your Resume using the right keywords

Now that you have your list of skills and experience keywords, it’s time to tailor your resume accordingly. Here’s how:

Skills Keywords

• Incorporate Keywords Naturally: Integrate the skills keywords into your resume’s content in a natural and meaningful way. Don’t simply list them; provide context and evidence of your proficiency.
• Use Synonyms: ATS systems are often programmed to recognize synonyms and related terms. If the job posting mentions “content creation,” consider using “content generation” or “content development” as well.
• Highlight Relevant Skills: Prioritize the most relevant skills for the specific job you’re applying for. If the posting emphasizes certain skills over others, make sure those are prominent in your resume.

Experience Keywords

• Match Job Titles: Ensure that your previous job titles align with the position you’re applying for as closely as possible. If there’s a direct match, use it. If not, choose a title that closely mirrors the responsibilities and seniority level.
• Quantify Achievements: When describing your past roles, use quantifiable metrics to highlight your accomplishments. Numbers and percentages can make your achievements more compelling.
• Keyword Placement: Incorporate experience keywords in your resume’s summary or objective, in your job descriptions, and in any relevant sections like “Skills” or “Achievements.”

Resume Keywords Elsewhere on Your Application

While your resume is the primary focus, keywords should also appear in other parts of your application, including:

• Cover Letter: Customize your cover letter to include some of the keywords from the job posting. This shows your alignment with the position’s requirements and demonstrates your genuine interest.
• LinkedIn Profile: Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and aligns with your resume. Many recruiters cross-reference applicants’ LinkedIn profiles to verify information.
• Online Portfolio or Website: If you have an online portfolio or personal website, ensure that it contains relevant keywords and reinforces your qualifications.

Tailor Your Title

Consider customizing your resume’s title or objective statement to align with the job you’re applying for. For example, if you’re seeking a project management role, your title could be “Experienced Project Manager” rather than a generic “Resume.”

Apply and Repeat for Other Job Postings

This process of identifying, incorporating, and tailoring keywords should be repeated for each job application you submit. While it may seem time-consuming, it significantly increases your chances of getting noticed by ATS systems and, ultimately, hiring managers.

Essential Next Steps to Get Past the ATS

Now that you’ve learned how to use ATS resume keywords effectively, the next steps are straightforward but essential:

1. Proofread Your Resume: Ensure that your resume is error-free and well-organized. Any typos or formatting issues can reflect negatively on your candidacy.
2. Customize Your Application: Tailor your resume and cover letter for each job application, emphasizing the most relevant keywords.
3. Test Your Resume: Some online tools and services can help you check how your resume fares with ATS systems. Use them to fine-tune your document.
4. Stay Informed: Keep up with industry trends and changes in ATS technology to adjust your strategy as needed.
5. Network: Don’t rely solely on online applications. Networking and reaching out to contacts in your industry can open doors and bypass ATS systems altogether.