If you know even a little bit about how Google works, then you likely know the world’s biggest online search engine uses complex algorithms to comb through millions of websites for keywords and phrases to deliver search results. This is exactly how job boards and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) work to match you to a hiring manager’s or recruiter’s job opening.
For instance, if you’re looking for a place for dinner on a Friday night, searching “best Italian restaurants” in your town will yield results based on the keywords used in the search that Google finds on numerous sites. Results are delivered based on what Google finds to be the most relevant information.
Likewise, hiring professionals and job boards also use keyword searches to find qualified candidates for open positions. While hiring managers may conduct manual searches using keyword searches, job boards like Indeed and CareerBuilder use automated search tools to collect keyword data from job-seekers to match them with open positions. This includes Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to help weed out candidates. Having the correct keywords in your resume is important to getting in front of the right people and receiving the call for the interview.
So, in today’s job market, using keywords related to both your field and your expertise is essential when creating your resume and LinkedIn profile. The first step to keyword optimization in your resume and LinkedIn profile is to determine what the keywords for your industry are. Take some time to consider if you were a hiring manager, what words would you use to search for qualified candidates. For instance, if you’re a manager in the technology field, consider keywords in core competencies, project management skills, leadership of remote and offshore teams, certifications and languages you know.
Next, add a summary of skills to your resume and LinkedIn profile using your keywords. The summary can be as overt as simply listing your skills, or including them in a more professionally written introductory paragraph. Either way, to deliver better search results, the keyword-laden summary should be listed somewhere near the top of your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Finally, liberally sprinkle your keywords throughout your resume and LinkedIn profile. While some repetition of keywords is encouraged, also consider using different forms of the keywords that also might be searched for by hiring managers and search engines.
Perfecting keyword optimization is both a science and an art. If you’re not sure where to start, Capstone Resume Services can help. We specialize in keyword optimization for both your resume and LinkedIn profile, as well as content compelling to the humans that will read them. Schedule a consultation with us today to get started on getting your professional profile noticed.
