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Keyword optimized resumes

© Annemarie Cross

To streamline the screening process many recruiters are now scanning resumes into an automated tracking/database system. This means that when developing their resume a job seeker must not only make the document's content compelling, but also ensure that it is keyword optimized to ensure it passes and maintains a high ranking during a computer-based search.

Keywords (previously known as buzz words) are typically nouns (however can also encompass verbs), and are generally grouped into mandatory and desirable fields that reflect pertinent experience and skills required by a potential employer.

When searching their database the recruiter decides which keywords best describe the key skills required in a suitable candidate and enters these keywords into their applicant tracking system. Similar to a search engine (that searches using a spider to 'crawl' around the internet to gather relevant information pertaining to the entered keyword search), a recruiter's automated tracking system identifies specified keywords within all the resumes stored on their database. When the tracking system locates a keyword, it is termed a 'hit', with the greater number of relevant keywords located in the document giving that resume a higher ranking.

Keywords should be industry/job specific and relevant to what a recruiter or potential employer would be looking for in a suitable job applicant. They may include job titles, relevant skills, industry jargon, and necessary education / academic achievements.

Keywords can be garnered from the following resources:

- Online or printed job postings; - Publications (including O*Net - http://online.onetcenter.org; the Occupational Outlook Handbook - http://bls.gov/oco/home.htm); - Industry Association Websites; - Career related discussion forums; - Career exploration or resume books; - Company websites (including our mission; about us; or career opportunities web pages); - Formal job descriptions; - Online Yellow Pages; - Other resumes posted online; to name a few.

To optimize your resume's ranking with search engines and computer tracking systems include a 'keyword' section toward the forefront of your document as well as incorporating keywords throughout your resume. Avoid placing keywords nonsensically throughout your document as you must maintain a fluent writing style to ensure your resume flows smoothly.

Following is an example of a keyword section for a Project Lead / Web Architect's resume which was strategically positioned at the forefront of their document:

KEYWORDS: Web Applications Specialist, Project Lead, Web Architect, Lead Developer, Architecture Design, User Experience Design, Business Analysis, System Analysis, Development Methodologies, Quality Testing and Management, System Development Life Cycle, Requirements Gathering , System Architecture, User Interface Design, Applications Development, Project Planning, Project Fulfillment, Project Management, Big 5 consulting, Web Functionality, Team Leadership, Staff Performance Management.

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