Keywords to Use When Writing a Resume

Knowing how to write a resume that stands out is more than just listing job duties — it’s about using the right words at the right time. Recruiters and automated systems alike rely on specific keywords to filter and rank resumes. That's why understanding the keywords to use when writing a resume can make a critical difference in getting noticed.

Whether you're preparing a resume for your first job, updating your resume with professional resume writing tips, or tailoring it for a specific industry, your choice of words can directly affect your chances of getting an interview.

In this guide, we'll show you:

How to find and use job-specific keywords

What resume buzzwords and strong action verbs you should include

How to ensure your resume is ATS-friendly

And the best resume format to present your experience effectively

Let’s dig in and discover the words to put on a resume that can land you the job you want.

What Are Resume Keywords and Why Are They Important?

Keywords are the specific skills, qualifications, and experiences that recruiters or hiring systems look for in candidates. These can include:

Job titles (e.g., "Sales Associate")

Tools and platforms (e.g., "Salesforce," "Python")

Certifications (e.g., "PMP," "Google Ads Certified")

Soft and hard skills (e.g., "project management," "data analysis")

Including relevant skills for resumes ensures that your resume aligns with the job description and passes ATS (Applicant Tracking System) filters.

How to Find the Right Keywords for a Resume

Start by scanning the job posting for:

Repeated terms or phrases

Required skills

Desirable qualifications

Action-based duties

Once you gather that list, compare it with your experiences and plug in power words for resume that match. Use resume action words like "achieved," "led," "implemented," and "optimized" to begin bullet points and highlight results.

Example:

Instead of writing:

"Responsible for marketing"

Write:

"Implemented strategic digital campaigns using Google Ads, increasing conversion rates by 35%."

This technique uses both strong resume verbs and job-specific keywords effectively.

Where to Use Keywords on a Resume

Keywords should appear naturally across different sections of your resume:

Resume Summary/Objective: Include industry-specific keywords and your main skills.

Skills Section: List technical skills, certifications, and soft skills.

Work Experience: Begin each bullet with a strong action verb, followed by job-specific achievements.

Education & Certifications: Mention relevant credentials.

Remember, the goal isn’t to stuff the resume — it’s to optimize it with ATS-friendly resume terms that match your actual experience.

Top Resume Keywords by Industry

➤ What are examples of strong resume keywords?

Here are some sample keywords to use when writing a resume tailored to specific industries:

Marketing Resume:

SEO, Google Analytics, Campaign Management, Content Strategy, Email Marketing, Conversion Rate Optimization

Finance Resume:

Budget Forecasting, Financial Reporting, GAAP, Risk Analysis, Audit Compliance, QuickBooks

IT Resume:

Python, Java, Cloud Computing, Agile Methodology, Cybersecurity, Data Structures

Customer Service Resume:

CRM, Conflict Resolution, Upselling, Call Center Metrics, Retention Strategy

Including industry-specific keywords boosts your relevance and ranking when hiring managers or systems screen resumes.

Why Are Keywords Important in a Resume?

Hiring managers and ATS tools often use keyword-matching to sort through hundreds of resumes. If your resume doesn't contain enough relevant keywords, it may never be seen by human eyes.

Using keywords to use when writing a resume ensures that your application:

Matches job requirements

Passes through ATS filters

Appeals directly to recruiters’ expectations

Showcases your professional resume writing ability

It’s no longer enough to just be qualified—you need to be discoverable.

How Keywords Can Improve Your Resume's Performance

How can keywords improve my resume?

Strategically placed keywords can:

Improve your ranking in ATS software

Highlight your qualifications clearly

Make your resume scannable for recruiters

Help align your experience with the job description

Pair your keywords with quantifiable results to stand out even more. For example:

"Optimized sales funnel using data analysis, resulting in a 20% increase in lead conversion."

This includes a power word, a skill, and an outcome—exactly what recruiters love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Resume Keywords

Even with the best intentions, many candidates misuse keywords. Here's what not to do:

Keyword stuffing: Adding too many keywords can make your resume sound robotic. Always prioritize readability.

Using irrelevant terms: Only include keywords that reflect your actual experience.

Ignoring the job description: Tailor each resume. Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach.

Instead, focus on resume optimization tips like:

Using clear headings

Keeping bullet points concise

Avoiding fluff words

Aligning language with the company culture

Final Tips for Writing an ATS-Friendly Resume

To recap:

Use job-specific keywords from the job ad

Start bullet points with strong action verbs

Include relevant skills for resumes in the skills section

Optimize formatting with a clean layout and consistent font

Avoid graphics or tables that can confuse ATS

By combining resume language examples, industry-specific terms, and a clear structure, you’ll be on your way to writing a professional resume that gets interviews.

FAQs:

➤ What are resume buzzwords and should I use them?

Resume buzzwords are trendy terms like “go-getter,” “synergy,” or “team player.” Use them sparingly and prioritize specific, measurable achievements instead.

➤ Should I use the same keywords in every resume?

No. Always tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying for. Different roles require different key terms for resumes.

➤ How many keywords should a resume have?

Aim to match 5–10 relevant keywords from the job description. Quality over quantity matters most.

➤ Do power words really make a difference in resumes?

Yes. Power words (e.g., "led," "achieved," "developed") make your accomplishments sound stronger and more action-driven.

➤ Can I use AI tools to find keywords for my resume?

Yes. Tools like Jobscan or even LinkedIn job descriptions can help you extract the top resume terms relevant to your target role.

Conclusion

Mastering the keywords to use when writing a resume is no longer optional—it’s essential. Whether you're new to job searching or a seasoned professional, using resume keywords to include can significantly impact your visibility and chances of landing an interview.

Keep your language strong, your format clear, and your keywords relevant. With these strategies, your resume will not only pass the ATS test but also impress human recruite