When asked to write a short article on Resume Writing, I thought to myself, "What is it that people need to know today?" My answer is simple. It's the importance of Keywords.

In this electronic age, recruitment is heavily database driven. Whether you are applying online or hoping to catch the attention of an employer on LinkedIn, you need to understand the importance of Keyword searches. Often the first scan of your resume is by a computer and not a human eye. Here are some tips to keep in mind. 

The idea of a blanket resume and cover letter for any job is over. You must cater your documents to the job for which you are applying. If the job description requires a Marketing Specialist with experience in Cheetah Mail and you have those qualifications, they need to be on your resume. If you have managed teams or created marketing plans, say so.

A computer is looking for keyword matches to add to a consideration pile for a hiring manager to review. Computers cannot make assumptions, so if you are a Graphic Designer, list your software skills so as not to be overlooked. Yes, a human may assume you have Adobe Creative Suite skills, the electronic scan may not.

Match the skills and experience to what the job description calls out and adjust your resume to include those qualifications. This is also a good rule of thumb for LinkedIn and other social media networking sites. LinkedIn is a massive public database with a sophisticated built in search tool. Employers will search by keywords and skills to find you, so make sure to keep your profile as complete and up-to-date as possible.

If you are applying for general consideration, it's fine to have a basic resume. However, be sure your skill sets and experiences are thorough and accurate.

Resumes are never completed. You will be fine-tuning and updating your resume throughout your career. It's a work in progress, just like you are!

Happy Hunting!