Key Words to Use in a CV
Recruiters tend to spend their time searching agency databases or job sites, and they do this by way of ‘keyword searches’. In a single day a recruiter typically reviews a few hundred CVs from a database of many thousands. When you are applying for a job, you should be aware of the words that are most likely to be searched. For example, if you are applying for a job in the retail industry and in a managerial role, then put the words ‘retail’, ‘sales’ or ‘manager’ in your resume.
In addition to the keywords that will get your CV a potential viewing, you should also focus on keywords that will grab the attention of a recruiter when he or she reads it. Here it is important to be aware of what words not to use, as well as the words that you should use. It is generally advised to not use sweeping words of self-praise, such as ‘team-player’, ‘go-getter’, or ‘self-motivated’, as a recent survey on CareerBuilder showed. Try also to avoid over-used clichés, such as ‘synergy’, ‘results drive’ or ‘think outside the box’. Try instead to use action words when listing your achievements, such as ‘improved’, ‘created’ or ‘maximised’. This allows you to build up a more dynamic picture of your accomplishments, which will set you apart from people who just begin their statements with ‘I’ or ‘We’.
Stick as closely as possible to the wording of the job advert. Often the keywords that you should use are in the text of the ad itself. If you are applying for a specific industry, read up on the typical jargon used. Conversely if you want to broaden your horizons, use language that will be readily understood by recruiters in other fields. Setting up your CV with the right words is guaranteed to improve your chances of getting more than a passing glance.
Adam Watson
Our Career programs assist you to Get hired
For an expat moving to the Netherlands, getting the right direction is very important. It's important that one knows which steps and direction to take. Linda is an exceptionally talent counselor, her advice has helped me land a job within a week of coming to the Netherlands. I am grateful for her mentoring and look forward to a great working relationship in the future.
Dr. Hrishiraj S | Clinical Research & Affairs Manager
Together Abroad provided expert advice on personal branding including developing a top-notch, market-aware CV, highly tailored job applications, and approach strategies with potential employers in the Netherlands. Furthermore, I found them be highly knowledgeable in key related fields such as recruitment strategy, immigration law, contracts, labor agreements, and (un)employment benefits. I would recommend Together Abroad to anyone who needs professional help with transitioning to a new career.
A. Aboufirass | Structural Engeer
Linda is a big mind. She thinks about things that the rest normally overlook. The insight she has about the dutch job market can only be achieved through years of experience and persistence.
Her business savvy is complemented by her mastery of understanding the client's needs and requirements. For my career I could say, she was the “Mary Poppins”, who guided me through thick and thin and helped me to land a career in the Netherlands
S. Bhattacharjee | FP&A Manager
Mr. C. Joubert
Lead Workplace Strategy Consultant