Ask an Expert: What Are Keywords and Why Do I Need Them on My Resume?

Barbara Safani
Updated
resume keywords
resume keywords

Corbis

An AOL reader asks: What are keywords and why do I need them on my resume?

We've all searched for something online by typing in a word or phrase that closely resembles the type of information we are looking for. We find information and make decisions about products and services via these types of searches. Employers use a similar method to find the applicants that best match their open positions. Many companies rely on applicant tracking software to source candidates. By typing certain relevant keywords or phrases into the applicant tracking system, hiring managers can quickly find candidates that fit the requirements for their open positions.

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