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Keyword Optimization for Your Resume and Cover Letter

Selecting Keywords

Certain words are crucial to include to ensure that your resume does not go unnoticed by the computer software that is programmed to parse for specific skills and merits.

The first thing you can do is evaluate what you have done in your career. Recall all of the experience that you have, maybe something that you have forgotten about is incredibly relevant to the job for which you're applying.

Do some research. Make sure that you are aware of all of the terminology in your field. From specialized certification to standardized training, be aware of how words are commonly phrased. Make sure they appear using keyword optimization for both your resume and cover letter. Also, don't neglect the information given to you in the job posting! Most of the time, the job listing spells out exactly what requirements the employer is looking for; it wouldn't hurt to include the same keywords used in the listing.

Avoid Keyword Stuffing

One of the most beneficial things that you can do to prepare your resume is to place the most important words toward the top of each section. Also, disperse them throughout each section in an even and logical fashion. Don't fall into the typical keyword stuffing trap. Just because you have words that you need to include doesn't mean that you can simply throw them into your writing with no sort of rhyme or reason.

Do not oversell yourself by including too many keywords. This tactic can be a red flag to a computer program as well as an employer because it will look as though you do not know how to write a resume or cover letter correctly. Evenly disperse important phrases to emphasize them enough to make them stand out but not be overused.

Make Them Count

Each situation and job application is different, and there are a variety of factors that have an effect on which words you should include. This is why keyword optimization for your resume and cover letter is such a noteworthy topic. To not only make your resume stand out in a technological screening process but make you appear more focused and qualified for the position which you are applying.

What Now?

There are a few additional elements that you can employ to ensure that the keyword optimization for your resume and cover letter is effective. Utilize action verbs to further embellish your writing and appear more impressive. Also, exhaust all of your resources to ensure that you have the perfect resume and cover letter. You can also use them on your social media profiles.

Do you have any questions about whether this is really free, how to write a resume, how to write a cover letter, how to write a reference page or general tips? Visit the job and career help section and interview tips.