What are keywords?
They are words or phrases specific to a particular industry
or profession. They imply additional skills and experiences that are vital
to someone's success in a position. They can also relate to the particular
level of responsibility one has had in an organization. For example, executives
may include the following keywords in their summaries:
- Strategic Planning
- Multi-Site Operations
- New Business Development
- Mergers and Acquisitions
- P & L Responsibilities
Why Use Keywords?
- Scanned resumes. Employers often do not have the time or resources to read
each resume submitted for a position. In order to save time, a scanner is
used to input the resumes into a company's database. Keywords that are essential
for candidates to be considered qualified are then identified and resumes
are searched for them. These words are specific to the particular position,
and resumes that don't contain them are not considered.
- Search engines. If you have signed up on one of the Internet search engines
or have submitted your resume on-line to specific companies, keywords will
connect you to job postings. The more keywords you include in your resume,
the more "hits" you will have. Researching employers and jobs will
help you identify what keywords to include.
- Keywords communicate multiple skills and qualifications to prospective
employers. As was mentioned before, use keywords that will be appropriate
for a particular employer. For example, "project management" can
imply several things to different audiences. This can be particularly important
if you are making a career shift. Talking to current employees of an organization
or checking their website or annual report can give you clues.
Where to Use Keywords
Once you have identified the keywords for a particular position that interests
you, it will be important to draw attention to them. Repetition can also be
helpful in having an impact on a resume reader.
Keywords need to be at or near the beginning of your resume. They may be part
of your objective, your summary section, or if you are using a skills-based
or combination format, they may even be titles of sections. In addition, you
may want to use them in descriptions of positions you have held.
Cover letters are another place to use keywords. Some employers carefully
read cover letters and others do not, so don't assume your cover letter will
be seen. However, effective cover letters connect the employer's needs (keywords)
with a candidate's qualifications (keywords). By using keywords, you make it
easy for the employer to consider you for the position.
Finally, keywords are not limited to your resume. In an interview, use these
words to describe your experiences, in examples of your work, and in selling
yourself as the ideal candidate. You will confirm what they have surmised about
you, and you will leave them with a strong impression. Don't forget your references.
Inform them of the position you are seeking, share the keywords that are important
to that employer, and make sure they can reinforce your experiences regarding
the keywords. |
