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Are you using resume keywords the right way in Australia?
You’ve heard the advice: “Use keywords to beat the bots!” So, you stuff your resume with every technical term and job title you can think of, hoping the computer will give you a high score.
But what if this common tactic is actually making things worse?
Harvard Business School’s research into “hidden workers” points to a big problem. They found that automated screening systems, which rely on these keywords, are a major reason good candidates get rejected. These systems use “very specific parameters” to minimise the applicant pool, often focusing on narrow keywords and exact credentials.
The report warns this leads companies to miss viable candidates who “could perform at a high level with training” but whose resumes don’t match the rigid keyword checklist.
The Australian keyword trap
In the Australian job market, recruiters like Debra O’Brien see two common mistakes:
- Keyword stuffing: Loading your resume with buzzwords that don’t match your actual experience. Skilled human recruiters spot this instantly.
- Using the wrong jargon: A term common in your last industry might be unknown in another. The ATS won’t make the connection.
An ATS friendly resume isn’t about trickery. It’s about clear, accurate communication. The goal is to speak the same language as the employer, not to spam an algorithm.
How to use keywords wisely for your Australian job search
Stop thinking about “keywords” and start thinking about “skills language.” Here’s how:
- Match, don’t mimic: Carefully review the job description. Identify the 5-8 core skills and use those exact phrases to describe your own experience where truthful.
- Context is king: Never just list keywords. Always embed them in a sentence that shows what you achieved. For example: “Used project management software to deliver the marketing campaign10 days ahead of schedule.”
- Think like a human: After the ATS filters, a person reads your resume. It must flow naturally and sell your story, not just contain a list of terms.
Let’s look at some real examples. The key is to move from listing generic duties to describing specific achievements with impact. Here’s how to translate common weak phrases into powerful ‘skills language’ for both mid-level and senior roles:
Tabular Comparison: How to Frame Your Skills Like a Pro
Here is the table contrasting vague or generic terms with strong, results-oriented “skills language” for both mid-level and senior professionals. This demonstrates how to embed keywords effectively.
| Level | Don’t Use This (Vague/Weak) | Instead, Use This (Specific & Action-Oriented) | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-Level | “Responsible for social media” | “Grew LinkedIn follower base by 35% in 6 months through targeted content strategy.” | Uses the keyword “content strategy” and shows measurable impact with a number. |
| Mid-Level | “Handled customer service” | “Resolved escalated client issues, improving satisfaction scores by 15% and securing key account renewals.” | Embeds keywords like “client issues” and “account renewals” while highlighting problem-solving and value. |
| Mid-Level | “Assisted with projects” | “Coordinated cross-functional project timelines and deliverables using Asana, ensuring on-time launch for the Q3 campaign.” | Uses specific tools (Asana) and outcomes (on-time launch), incorporating keywords naturally. |
| Senior-Level | “Managed a team” | “Led a high-performing team of 12, fostering a culture of innovation that delivered a 20% increase in operational efficiency.” | The keyword “led” is stronger than “managed,” and it’s paired with a strategic outcome (culture, efficiency). |
| Senior-Level | “Improved processes” | “Spearheaded the digital transformation of the sales pipeline, integrating CRM systems that reduced reporting time by 50%.” | Keywords like “digital transformation” and “CRM systems” are framed within a leadership initiative with a clear ROI. |
| Senior-Level | “P&L responsibility” | “Directed P&L for the APAC region, executing a market-entry strategy that grew annual revenue by $2.5M within 18 months.” | Translates a common keyword (P&L) into a narrative of strategic leadership and quantifiable financial growth. |
Get expert help with resume optimisation in Australia
Navigating the balance between ATS requirements and human appeal is tricky. It requires a strategic approach, not just a list of tips.
This is where professional CV writing makes a difference. At ExpertsCentre, our CV Upgrade Package is built on this exact principle. We analyse your target roles, identify the critical “skills language” for the Australian market, and weave it authentically into your career narrative.
We ensure your resume is optimised for the system and compelling to the recruiter like Debra, who has over 15 years of experience in ANZ recruitment. It’s the smarter way to approach resume keywords Australia.
Ready to move beyond keyword myths? Let’s optimise your resume the right way.
References:
- Fuller, J., Raman, M., Sage-Gavin, E., & Hines, K. (2021). Hidden Workers: Untapped Talent. Harvard Business School Project on Managing the Future of Work and Accenture. P. 3.
- Fuller, J., Raman, M., Sage-Gavin, E., & Hines, K. (2021). Hidden Workers: Untapped Talent. Harvard Business School Project on Managing the Future of Work and Accenture. P. 9.
Meet your Resume Expert
Debra O’Brien
Upgrade your resume into one recruiters can’t ignore
