You're crafting your resume for a job application. How do you select the most relevant keywords to include?

Examine the job description, look for patterns, identify skills or qualities expected of the ideal candidate, and weave them into your resume's skills section and experience section in a natural way. LinkedIn Premium's competitive insights can steer you in the right direction, as they will tell you the skills the job MIGHT expect and the skills that top applicants you're competing with have. Thank you once again for coming to my Ted Talk.

In my experience, if you ensure that your resume is tailored for the target job, the keywords will be naturally in it. Another strategy is to observe and analyze several job ads and see which keywords/selection criteria repeat. These should be in your resume too. If they match your skills and experience, of course. Another useful suggestion is to cross-reference your resume with each job ad you apply to ensure that you didn't miss anything essential. Sometimes you may choose to remove some info due to space contraints to customization is key.

1. Analyze the Job Description Identify Key Terms: Read the job description carefully and highlight terms related to skills, qualifications, and responsibilities. Pay attention to repeated phrases and required competencies. Note Job Titles and Skills: Focus on job titles, required skills, certifications, and specific tasks mentioned. For instance, if the job requires “project management” and “budget oversight,” include these terms if applicable to your experience.

I have heard that recruiters only use 2 or 3 keywords when doing a candidate search in their ATS. I spend a minute or two ‘thinking like a recruiter’ to choose the top keywords I think they will search on. I make sure these keywords are in the resume.

When I work on a resume, I use a tool like Jobscan to pull out all the keywords. Then, as I work on developing my client's job scopes and accomplishments, I work to integrate the matching skills into my client's experience where appropriate.

This is hands-down the most important part of your resume. Use it to showcase your core qualifications, but be sure you mix in an accomplishment or three - this combination of hard skills and achievements is what will speak to the hiring manager.

Keep a list and add in your career accomplishments when they happen. It’s easier to refer back to your list than relying on your memory. Use the information to keep your resume current. I recommend taking a few minutes a month to review and update your resume. Also review job descriptions of positions of interest and in your field to make sure your resume reflects the current job market requirements. If you are looking to change your career path? Think of how your experience can be adjusted to reflect the position requirements. Then, create a separate resume to use. The best time to look for a job is when you don’t need one! Be prepared, organized, and be able to take advantage of opportunities that come your way.