The Best Keywords to Use in a Resume

To boost your chances of landing an interview, you need to use the right resume keywords. When you optimize your resume with applicable keywords, you increase your chances of having your resume be selected and ranked by the employer’s applicant tracking system. These systems filter resumes, scanning for specific words that match the job description. 

After your resume keywords get you past the ATS, you have to impress the hiring manager. Using keywords directly from the job description proves you have the skills and experience they need which will bring you one step closer to your next job. 

What are resume keywords?

Put plainly, resume keywords are specific words and phrases employers look for in a resume. These words describe skills, qualifications, job titles, industry terms, and certifications and match what hiring managers expect to see for a role. 

For example, if a job description says, “Proficiency in project management software like Asana or Trello,” then the keywords might be “project management,” “Asana,” and “Trello.” If these words are missing from your resume, you’ll miss the mark with both the ATS and the human hiring manager – even if you have the experience, they’re not going to read between the lines. 

Why are resume keywords important?

When you apply for a job, you’re up against a wall of competition – namely, other job seekers. Employers receive hundreds of applications for every job they have open. Because there’s no way for a person to wade through that many resumes, companies use ATS programs to scan and rank applicants.

These systems compare your resume against the job description and prioritize the ones that contain keywords for resume scanners. When you don’t have the right resume keywords, the ATS rejects your resume, it ends up in a digital la-la land, and you get ghosted – mostly because the human beings at the company don’t even know you exist. 

This is why it is so critical to be strategic with how you write your resume and include the right keywords to increase your chances of getting an interview. 

How to use resume keywords in your resume

Of course, you don’t want to just randomly stuff keywords into your resume. Instead, you have to use them in a way that naturally flows with the career story you’re trying to tell. The great thing is that you can weave resume keywords into every section of your resume. 

In your professional summary

Your professional summary is one of the first things recruiters read, making it the perfect place to include resume keywords. This section should highlight your top skills, experience, and qualifications in a concise way.

Example:

"Detail-oriented marketing specialist with SEO expertise and experience in Google Analytics, content strategy, and digital advertising. Proven track record of increasing organic traffic and optimizing marketing campaigns for engagement."

In your Core Competencies section

Many resumes include a Core Competencies or Skills section that lists key abilities. This is a great place to add keywords for resume scanners, as ATS systems often scan this area for relevant terms.

Example:

• Content Strategy

• Social Media Marketing

• SEO Optimization

• Google Ads

• Data Analysis

In your Professional Experience section

Your work experience should show how you’ve applied the skills employers are looking for. Include relevant resume keywords when describing your responsibilities and accomplishments.

Example:

"Managed a team of software developers to design and launch a mobile application that increased customer engagement by 35%."

In your Education and Certifications section

Many employers require specific degrees, licenses, or certifications. If a job posting mentions a required certification, include it exactly as written in the listing.

Example:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration

• Certified Project Management Professional (PMP)

• Google Analytics Certification

Resume keywords by profession

How do you know which resume keywords to include? Start by reviewing the job descriptions you're applying to and take note of the terms that routinely pop up on these job listings. 

Now ask yourself these questions:

• How do they define the position and its responsibilities?

• What specific language do they use to state the core requirements for the role?

• Do I have these same skills and experience with the responsibilities?

If you've done that work before or possess those qualifications, describe it on your resume using the exact same wording. Each industry requires different resume keywords.

1. Marketing and Advertising

• Digital Marketing

• SEO Optimization

• Google Analytics

• Social Media Strategy

• PPC Advertising

• Branding

• Market Research

2. Information Technology (IT)

• Software Development

• JavaScript, Python, SQL

• Cloud Computing

• Cybersecurity

• IT Project Management

• Agile/Scrum

• Data Analysis

3. Healthcare

• Patient Care

• Electronic Health Records (EHR)

• HIPAA Compliance

• Medical Billing & Coding

• Diagnostic Testing

• Clinical Research

• Telemedicine

4. Finance and Accounting

• Financial Analysis

• Budgeting & Forecasting

• Risk Management

• Tax Compliance

• Auditing

• Cost Accounting

• Investment Strategies

5. Project Management

• Agile Methodology

• Scrum Framework

• Stakeholder Communication

• Risk Assessment

• Budget Management

• Process Improvement

Job search success with resume keywords

Using appropriate resume keywords and action verbs can not only help you get through the resume black hole, but it can also help you showcase yourself in the best possible light. Hiring managers will appreciate seeing actionable insights from your career experience, rather than simply telling them about it. Use the resume keyword to transform your resume into a career-building tool.

Ready to write the next chapter of your career? Hire a TopResume writer today!

This article has been rewritten/updated by Marsha Hebert.