A resume doesn't directly reach the hiring manager; it first goes through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), which uses keywords to shortlist resumes. Therefore, before writing or designing your resume, conducting research is essential. These keywords not only attract the attention of the ATS but also make your application stand out to the hiring manager.
Your resume serves as a conversation starter; it provides a glimpse of your talent through the selected keywords. During an interview, it's your chance to further sell your skills to the manager.
To find suitable keywords for your resume, one technique is to scan the job ad for relevant terms. It's crucial to incorporate similar keywords into your resume, as this increases the chances of the ATS viewing your application favorably. However, it's important not to overdo it.
There are two main types of keywords to focus on:
1. Action Verbs: These are words that convey action and help detail your achievements. Incorporate them into your job descriptions in the work experience section. Examples include "managed," "planned," "maximized," etc.
2. Job-related keywords: These describe your skills (both hard and soft) and qualifications for the specific job. For instance, if you're applying for a React.js developer position, include skills mentioned in the job description. Alongside, incorporate other skills that may go beyond the job description.
Integrity is crucial; avoid fabricating information on your resume. Now that we've covered the fundamentals, let's proceed to build different sections of your resume.