ATS Resume Keywords: How to Find and Use Them Correctly
When it comes to passing Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), keywords are everything. Many resumes fail not because candidates lack skills or experience, but because their resumes do not include the right words in the right places. ATS systems rely heavily on keywords to decide whether a resume is relevant enough to move forward.
Understanding how ATS resume keywords work — and how to use them correctly — can dramatically improve your chances of getting shortlisted and receiving interview calls.
What Are ATS Resume Keywords?
ATS resume keywords are specific words and phrases taken directly from job descriptions. These keywords usually relate to:
• Skills
• Tools and software
• Certifications
• Job titles
• Responsibilities
• Industry terms
ATS systems scan resumes to identify these keywords and compare them against job requirements. The more relevant keywords your resume contains, the higher your resume is likely to rank.
Why Keywords Matter More Than You Think
ATS systems are designed to handle large volumes of applications quickly. Instead of reading resumes like humans, they analyze text and assign relevance scores.
If your resume does not contain enough job-related keywords, the ATS may assume:
• You are not qualified
• Your experience is not relevant
• Your resume does not match the role
Even highly skilled candidates can be filtered out if their resumes lack proper keyword alignment.
How to Find the Right ATS Keywords
The best source of ATS keywords is always the job description itself. Employers write job descriptions using the same language ATS systems are programmed to recognize.
Step 1: Read the Job Description Carefully
Look for:
• Skills listed under “Requirements” or “Qualifications”
• Tools, software, or technologies mentioned
• Repeated words or phrases
• Job titles and role responsibilities
Words that appear multiple times are strong indicators of important keywords.
Step 2: Identify Hard Skills and Soft Skills
Hard skills might include:
• Programming languages
• Software tools
• Technical processes
Soft skills might include:
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Time management
Both types of skills are important for ATS screening.
Step 3: Note Industry-Specific Language
Each industry uses its own terminology. ATS systems are trained to recognize this language. Using the correct industry terms improves relevance and credibility.
Where to Use Keywords in Your Resume
Using keywords correctly is just as important as identifying them. Keywords should appear naturally and logically throughout your resume.
Resume Summary
Your summary should include:
• Job title
• Core skills
• Relevant experience
This section is often scanned first by ATS systems.
Skills Section
A dedicated skills section helps ATS systems quickly identify key competencies. List skills using bullet points and match job description language closely.
Work Experience
Describe your experience using job-related keywords. Focus on how your work aligns with the role you’re applying for.
Example:
Instead of “managed tasks in warehouse”, write “performed RF scanning, order picking, and inventory control while meeting daily KPIs.”
Keyword Mistakes That Hurt ATS Scores
Keyword Stuffing
Repeating the same keyword excessively does not improve ATS performance. In fact, it may reduce readability and credibility.
Using Incorrect Variations
ATS systems are improving, but many still rely on exact or close matches. Using unrelated synonyms may reduce recognition.
Hiding Keywords
Placing keywords in headers, footers, or hidden text does not help. ATS systems focus on visible, structured content.
Balancing Keywords for ATS and Humans
A common concern is that keyword-optimized resumes may sound unnatural. The key is balance. A well-written resume should:
• Read clearly to humans
• Contain relevant keywords naturally
• Focus on achievements and impact
Recruiters still review resumes after ATS screening. Clear language benefits both systems and people.
How Keyword Optimization Improves Resume Match Score
Many ATS systems assign a resume match score based on keyword alignment and relevance. A higher match score means:
• Greater chance of shortlisting
• Higher visibility to recruiters
• Better ranking among applicants
Improving keyword usage often leads to noticeable improvements in match scores.
Testing and Refining Your Resume Keywords
Before applying, compare your resume with the job description:
• Are important skills mentioned?
• Does your experience match the role language?
• Are keywords placed in logical sections?
Small changes can significantly improve ATS performance.
Final Thoughts
ATS resume keywords are not about tricking the system — they are about clarity and alignment. When your resume clearly reflects the language and requirements of the job, ATS systems can accurately recognize your qualifications.
By learning how to find and use keywords correctly, job seekers can dramatically increase their chances of passing ATS screening and reaching the interview stage.
🔎 People Also Ask (FAQ Section)
What keywords do ATS systems look for in resumes?
ATS systems look for keywords related to skills, tools, job titles, certifications, and responsibilities listed in the job description.
How many keywords should I include in my resume?
There is no fixed number. Focus on including the most relevant keywords naturally throughout your resume rather than repeating them excessively.
Can ATS understand synonyms?
Some ATS systems recognize related terms, but many rely on exact or close matches. Using the same language as the job description is safest.
Is keyword stuffing bad for ATS?
Yes. Keyword stuffing can harm readability and may reduce resume effectiveness for both ATS systems and recruiters.
Where should keywords appear in a resume?
Keywords should appear in the resume summary, skills section, and work experience where they accurately describe your background.
Do keywords alone guarantee interview calls?
No. Keywords help pass ATS screening, but resumes must also be clear, truthful, and relevant to impress recruiters.