How to Use Keywords in Your Job Search

How to Use Keywords in Your Job Search How to Use Keywords in Your Job Search 16Navigating the Internet when searching and sifting through millions of ads for jobs can easily frustrate even the most seasoned and savvy job seeker. However, using keywords to search job boards and employer websites can provide relief from the endless sifting and searching. Not only does the use of keywords reduce the number of irrelevant job descriptions to look at, but it can also save you time, increase your hiring chances, and locate positions you would have never thought of looking at before. Here are four ways to use keywords in your job search. Keyword Variations to Find Jobs: Using a variety of keywords for titles, qualifications, skills, and duties can yield more specialized positions. The key is to use a variety of keywords and keep them from being too broad or too targeted. Use different variations of keywords for schedule types, telecommuting jobs, and departments, such as using human resources and HR. You can also search using terms that will broaden your results and wont limit you in your job search. Keywords to Beat Applicant Tracking Systems: Job applicant tracking systems are designed to use keywords to determine if an application is moved forward or rejected. Pay attention to the keywords used in a job title and description- these same keywords will need to be in your cover letter and resume to increase your chances of making it through the system. Avoiding/Recognizing Scams: Surprisingly, there are certain keywords that tend to be associated with scam job postings. While legitimate job postings may use phrases such as “work-from-home,” that same keyword also shows up in many scam listings as well. Using alternative phrases like telecommuting, remote work, and virtual jobs can yield better results and fewer scam listings. Time Savings: Job searching can make you feel like you are racing against time. However, using keywords in your search can help eliminate the sifting required to get through the scams and to the real jobs you are looking for. They will also help you find positions that match what you are looking for or are qualified for. The less searching you have to do, the more time you can spend sending out resumes. Keywords in your job search are important to locate all relevant positions while eliminating ones that are irrelevant to your situation. While keywords can be tricky to figure out, once you find the words or phrases that work for specific sites or the type of job you are looking for, they can increase your productivity, save you time, and get you the opportunities you are looking for. If you are looking for a flexible job, try your newfound keyword knowledge out where there are over 16,000 remote, freelance, temporary, and part-time jobs listed that span 50+ job categories.