How to include keywords from job postings

In the current job market, standing out with your resume is more challenging than ever. With over 99% of recruiters using keyword filters in their Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to find the right candidates to interview, understanding how to identify and incorporate the right keywords from job postings has become essential for job search success.

This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about finding, selecting, and strategically placing keywords from job descriptions into your resume and cover letter to significantly increase your chances of landing interviews.

Understanding the Modern Job Search Landscape

Before diving into keyword strategies, it's important to understand how modern hiring works. Most companies, especially larger organizations, use Applicant Tracking Systems to manage the overwhelming number of applications they receive. These computer software programs collect and sort thousands of resumes, acting as the first filter between your application and human eyes.

In 2025, Workday remains the most widely used ATS among Fortune 500 companies, with over 39% adoption, followed by other major systems. Understanding this landscape is crucial because it means your resume needs to be optimized not just for humans, but for these automated systems as well.

What Are Job Posting Keywords?

Keywords for jobs are words or phrases that describe skills, personality traits, qualifications, company culture terms, specific job titles, or job locations that recruiters are looking for in candidates. These keywords can be categorized into several types:

Hard Skills Keywords: Technical abilities specific to your industry, such as programming languages, software proficiency, certifications, or specialized techniques.

Soft Skills Keywords: Personal attributes and interpersonal skills like leadership, communication, problem-solving, or teamwork abilities.

Industry-Specific Terms: Jargon, methodologies, processes, or concepts that are commonly used in your field.

Job Title Variations: Different ways to describe the same role, including synonyms and related positions.

Company Culture Keywords: Values, working styles, and organizational characteristics that align with the company's mission.

Action Words: Strong verbs that demonstrate your accomplishments and contributions in previous roles.

When creating your professional resume using modern resume templates, incorporating these various keyword types strategically can make the difference between your application being seen or overlooked. Understanding how to write a resume that effectively uses these keywords is crucial for modern job seekers.

Why Keywords Matter More Than Ever

The significance of keywords in job applications has grown exponentially in recent years. Here's why they're so critical:

ATS Filtering Systems

According to Jobscan surveys, 99.7% of recruiters use keyword filters in their ATS to identify candidates for interviews. This means that if your resume doesn't contain the right keywords, it may never reach human hands, regardless of how qualified you are for the position.

Volume of Applications

Modern job postings can receive hundreds or even thousands of applications. Keywords help hiring managers and ATS systems quickly identify candidates who appear to match their requirements, making it an efficient screening tool.

Relevance Matching

Keywords demonstrate that you understand the role requirements and industry language. They show that you've carefully read the job posting and can communicate using the terminology that matters to the employer.

SEO for Job Seekers

Just as websites use SEO to rank higher in search results, your resume uses keywords to rank higher in ATS searches and recruiter keyword filters. This concept is similar to ATS resume optimization, where understanding how these systems work can dramatically improve your visibility to potential employers.

How to Identify the Right Keywords from Job Postings

Finding the most effective keywords requires a systematic approach to analyzing job descriptions. Here's a step-by-step process:

Step 1: Collect Multiple Job Postings

Don't rely on just one job posting. Gather 5-10 similar job descriptions for your target role from different companies. This gives you a broader view of what skills and qualifications are consistently valued across the industry.

Step 2: Analyze Job Description Sections

Focus on key areas of job listings including education requirements, duties and responsibilities, and preferred qualifications. Pay special attention to:

1. Job Title and Alternative Titles: Note different ways the position might be described
2. Required Qualifications: Essential skills, experience, and education
3. Preferred Qualifications: Nice-to-have skills that can set you apart
4. Job Responsibilities: Day-to-day tasks and major projects
5. Company Culture Descriptions: Values and working style preferences
6. Industry-Specific Terms: Technical language and methodologies mentioned

Step 3: Identify Keyword Patterns

Look for words and phrases that appear repeatedly across multiple job postings. These recurring terms are likely the most important keywords for your industry and role. Create a list ranking keywords by frequency of appearance.

Step 4: Categorize Your Keywords

Organize your identified keywords into categories:

Must-Have Keywords: Skills and qualifications listed as "required" or "essential"

Valuable Keywords: Preferred qualifications and commonly mentioned skills

Differentiating Keywords: Less common skills that could help you stand out

Industry Keywords: Technical terms and jargon specific to your field

Types of Keywords to Focus On

Understanding different keyword categories helps you create a comprehensive keyword strategy:

Technical Skills Keywords

These are specific, measurable abilities that relate directly to job performance. Examples include:

1. Software proficiency (Microsoft Excel, Salesforce, Adobe Creative Suite)
2. Programming languages (Python, Java, SQL)
3. Certifications (PMP, Google Analytics, AWS Certified)
4. Technical processes (Agile methodology, SEO optimization, data analysis)

Soft Skills Keywords

Many job postings include soft skills as part of job requirements, though some job seekers focus only on hard skills and technical keywords. Important soft skills include:

1. Leadership and management abilities
2. Communication and presentation skills
3. Problem-solving and analytical thinking
4. Collaboration and teamwork
5. Adaptability and flexibility
6. Customer service orientation

Industry-Specific Keywords

Using relevant industry jargon and technical terms that align with job requirements demonstrates your familiarity with the field. These might include:

1. Marketing: conversion rates, lead generation, brand awareness, ROI
2. Finance: financial modeling, risk assessment, regulatory compliance
3. Healthcare: patient care, HIPAA compliance, medical terminology
4. Technology: system integration, cybersecurity, cloud computing

Action-Oriented Keywords

Emphasizing achievements using action verbs showcases your impact and contributions. Strong action keywords include:

1. Managed, led, directed, supervised
2. Developed, created, designed, implemented
3. Increased, improved, optimized, enhanced
4. Collaborated, coordinated, facilitated
5. Analyzed, researched, evaluated

Strategic Keyword Placement in Your Resume

Once you've identified your target keywords, strategic placement throughout your resume is crucial. Here's how to incorporate them effectively:

Professional Summary Section

Your professional summary or objective statement should include 3-5 of your most important keywords. This section is often the first thing both ATS systems and hiring managers see, making it prime real estate for keyword placement.

Example: "Results-driven Digital Marketing Manager with 5+ years of experience in SEO optimization, content strategy, and lead generation. Proven track record of increasing conversion rates by 40% through data-driven campaign management and cross-functional collaboration."

Skills Section

Create a dedicated skills section that incorporates both hard and soft skill keywords. Organize them in order of importance and relevance to your target role. When building this section using professional resume examples, ensure you can genuinely demonstrate each listed skill.

Work Experience Descriptions

Integrate keywords naturally into your job descriptions and accomplishments. Rather than simply listing duties, use keywords to describe your achievements and the impact you made in each role.

Instead of: "Responsible for social media accounts" Try: "Managed social media marketing campaigns across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, increasing brand engagement by 35% and lead generation by 50%"

Education and Certifications

Include relevant educational keywords, certifications, and training programs that match job requirements. This is particularly important for roles that require specific qualifications or technical certifications. When listing these credentials, consider using professional resume formats that highlight your educational achievements effectively.

Common Keyword Mistakes to Avoid

While keywords are essential, using them incorrectly can hurt your chances of getting hired. Here are common resume mistakes that could cost you a job:

Keyword Stuffing

Don't keyword stuff - your resume should always be natural and easy to read. Don't add keywords just for the sake of "pleasing" the ATS. Overloading your resume with keywords makes it difficult to read and can actually hurt your chances with both ATS systems and human reviewers.

Using Irrelevant Keywords

Only use keywords that are relevant to the job you're applying for and that accurately describe your skills and experience. Adding keywords for skills you don't possess can backfire during interviews when you're asked to demonstrate those abilities.

Ignoring Context

Keywords should fit naturally within the context of your sentences and bullet points. Forcing keywords into awkward phrasing makes your resume harder to read and less professional.

Generic Buzzwords

Avoid generic buzzwords like "hardworking," "team player," or "go-getter" as these terms don't tell recruiters anything meaningful about your specific qualifications and abilities.

Focusing Only on Hard Skills

While technical skills are important, don't neglect soft skills and cultural fit keywords that many employers value highly.

Tools and Techniques for Keyword Research

Several tools and techniques can help you identify and optimize keywords more effectively:

Manual Analysis

The most thorough approach involves manually reading through job postings and highlighting recurring terms. Create a spreadsheet to track keyword frequency across multiple job descriptions.

Online Keyword Tools

Job description keyword finders can scan job descriptions and instantly generate the most important keywords to include on your resume. While helpful, these tools should supplement, not replace, your manual analysis.

Professional Networks

Connect with professionals in your target industry through networking strategies to understand which skills and keywords are most valued in practice. Additionally, consider exploring LinkedIn profile optimization to ensure your online presence aligns with your keyword strategy.

Industry Publications and Websites

Read industry blogs, publications, and company websites to understand current terminology and trending skills in your field.

ATS Resume Scanners

Free resume scanners can optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems and help identify missing keywords by comparing your resume against specific job descriptions. For comprehensive guidance on making your application ATS-friendly, explore our detailed resume writing tips that complement keyword optimization strategies.

Optimizing Your Cover Letter with Keywords

Your cover letter presents another opportunity to incorporate relevant keywords while telling your professional story. When crafting your cover letter, consider these strategies:

Opening Paragraph

Include 2-3 key qualifications or skills mentioned in the job posting within your opening paragraph to immediately demonstrate your fit for the role.

Body Paragraphs

Use specific examples that incorporate keywords naturally while describing your accomplishments and relevant experiences.

Closing Paragraph

Reinforce your interest and qualifications by mentioning how your skills align with the company's needs and culture. For more comprehensive guidance on creating compelling application documents, consider exploring cover letter examples that effectively incorporate keywords while maintaining a professional tone.

Industry-Specific Keyword Strategies

Different industries prioritize different types of keywords and skills. Here's how to approach keyword optimization for major industry sectors:

Technology Industry

Focus on technical skills, programming languages, software proficiency, and emerging technologies. Include both current and trending technologies relevant to your specialty.

Key areas: Cloud platforms, cybersecurity, data analysis, artificial intelligence, software development methodologies

Healthcare Industry

Emphasize patient care, regulatory compliance, medical terminology, and healthcare systems experience.

Key areas: Patient safety, HIPAA compliance, medical software systems, clinical protocols, quality improvement

Finance and Banking

Highlight analytical skills, regulatory knowledge, financial software, and risk management experience.

Key areas: Financial modeling, regulatory compliance, risk assessment, financial analysis, portfolio management

Marketing and Communications

Focus on digital marketing channels, analytics, content creation, and campaign management skills.

Key areas: SEO/SEM, social media marketing, content strategy, lead generation, brand management

Sales Industry

Emphasize relationship building, revenue generation, CRM software, and sales methodologies.

Key areas: Lead generation, customer relationship management, sales forecasting, negotiation, account management

When developing your professional skills section, tailor your keyword selection to match your target industry's priorities and expectations. It's also beneficial to understand career change strategies if you're transitioning between industries, as keyword priorities may differ significantly.

Advanced Keyword Optimization Techniques

Once you've mastered basic keyword integration, consider these advanced techniques:

Synonym Variation

Use different versions of the same skill or concept throughout your resume. For example, if "project management" is important, also include related terms like "project coordination," "program management," or "project leadership" where appropriate.

Keyword Density Balance

Aim for a natural keyword density that demonstrates competence without overwhelming the content. A good rule of thumb is that keywords should represent 15-20% of your resume content.

Context-Specific Keywords

Tailor keywords to match the specific context and seniority level of each role you're applying for. Executive-level positions emphasize strategic keywords, while entry-level roles focus more on foundational skills.

Quantified Keywords

Combine keywords with specific metrics and results. Use 'data analysis that cut costs by 15%' instead of just 'data analysis’."

Measuring Your Keyword Success

Track the effectiveness of your keyword optimization efforts through several metrics:

Application Response Rates

Monitor how many applications result in interview requests before and after implementing keyword optimization strategies.

ATS Compatibility Testing

Use online ATS testing tools to ensure your resume parses correctly and maintains keyword visibility in different systems.

Keyword Performance Analysis

Track which specific keywords appear to generate the most positive responses from employers and recruiters.

Interview Feedback

Pay attention to which qualifications and skills interviewers focus on during conversations to refine your keyword priorities.

Staying Current with Keyword Trends

To stand out in the competitive job market, it's important to stay informed about the latest job market trends, emerging technologies, and in-demand skills. Here's how to keep your keyword strategy current:

Regular Market Research

Research job postings, networking events, and industry publications to identify sought-after qualifications and keywords that are gaining popularity in your field.

Continuous Learning

Invest in developing new skills that are becoming increasingly valuable in your industry. Update your resume keywords as you acquire new certifications and capabilities.

Industry Trend Monitoring

Follow industry leaders, subscribe to relevant publications, and participate in professional associations to stay ahead of emerging keyword trends.

Quarterly Resume Reviews

Review and update your resume every three months to ensure your keywords reflect current market demands and your evolving skillset.

Building a Comprehensive Keyword Strategy

Creating an effective keyword strategy requires a holistic approach that considers your entire job search process:

Personal Brand Alignment

Ensure your keywords align with your overall personal brand and career goals. Your professional resume should tell a consistent story that matches your LinkedIn profile, portfolio, and interview responses. Consider how personal branding for job seekers can enhance your keyword strategy across all professional platforms.

Multiple Resume Versions

Create targeted resume versions for different types of roles or industries, each optimized with specific keyword sets relevant to those positions. Understanding resume customization techniques can help you efficiently manage multiple versions while maintaining quality and relevance.

Long-term Career Planning

Consider not just current job requirements, but also future career goals when selecting which skills to develop and keywords to emphasize.

Networking Integration

Use your target keywords in networking conversations, LinkedIn posts, and professional communications to reinforce your expertise and visibility.

Common Questions About Resume Keywords

How many keywords should I include? Focus on quality over quantity. Include 15-25 highly relevant keywords naturally distributed throughout your resume rather than trying to cram in as many as possible.

Should I include keywords I'm still learning? Only include keywords for skills you can discuss confidently in an interview. If you're currently learning a skill, mention it in a "Professional Development" section rather than your core skills.

Do keywords work for all industries? Yes, but the importance and types of keywords vary by industry. Some fields rely more heavily on technical keywords, while others prioritize soft skills and cultural fit terms.

How often should I update my keywords? Review and update your keywords every 3-4 months or whenever you're targeting new types of roles. The job market and skill demands evolve constantly.

The Future of Keywords in Job Searching

As artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to evolve, keyword strategies will likely become more sophisticated. Future trends may include:

Semantic Understanding

ATS systems are becoming better at understanding context and meaning, not just exact keyword matches. This means natural, contextual use of keywords will become even more important.

Skills-Based Hiring

Many companies are moving toward skills-based hiring rather than degree-based filtering, making technical and soft skill keywords increasingly critical.

AI-Powered Matching

Advanced AI systems will better match candidate qualifications with job requirements, making comprehensive keyword strategies essential for visibility.

Real-Time Adaptation

Future tools may allow real-time keyword optimization based on current job market trends and specific company preferences.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of keyword optimization is no longer optional in today's competitive job market—it's essential for job search success. By systematically identifying relevant keywords from job postings and strategically incorporating them into your resume and cover letter, you can significantly improve your chances of getting past ATS filters and landing interviews.

Remember that successful keyword optimization is about more than just pleasing automated systems. It's about clearly communicating your qualifications, demonstrating your understanding of industry requirements, and showing employers that you're the right fit for their needs.

The key is to maintain authenticity while being strategic. Use keywords that genuinely reflect your skills and experience, integrate them naturally into your content, and continuously refine your approach based on market trends and feedback.

By aligning your resume with current job market trends, you demonstrate your adaptability and relevance to potential employers. This positions you as a candidate who not only meets current requirements but can also grow with the organization's evolving needs.

Whether you're crafting your first professional resume or updating an experienced career summary, leveraging the right keywords from job postings will help you stand out in a crowded field and move closer to landing your ideal position. Take the time to research, implement, and refine your keyword strategy—your future interviews depend on it.

For additional support in creating an optimized, keyword-rich resume, consider exploring professional resume writing services or utilizing comprehensive job search strategies to complement your keyword optimization efforts. With the right approach and tools, you can transform your job search from a frustrating numbers game into a targeted strategy that consistently generates interview opportunities.