Keyword loading is the process of adding legitimate job target keywords to your resume to maximize its keyword content.

Since most resumes are processed electronically – and ranked and scored based on their keyword content – it's very likely that the effectiveness of your resume (MS, Word, text or HTML format) will hinge on whether it includes the right keywords.

How do we know which keywords to use? It's simple: We look at the keywords employers use in their job descriptions.

To maximize your resume's keyword content, search for job examples on the Net that are as close as possible to your ideal job, then weave the keywords from these examples into your resume text – in context.

In addition, most job seekers benefit when their resume includes a "Qualifications Summary" that outlines their key skills and qualifications.

To find job description examples, try Indeed.com, a site that's known as the "Google" of job searching. Since Indeed.com pulls jobs from sites all over the net – Monster, CareerBuilder, Craig's List, etc. – it can streamline your "job shopping" efforts.

Using Keywords to Find Jobs

Every job, career field, and industry has its own unique set of ever-changing keywords. The examples below demonstrate how a sales representative might use keywords to search for jobs.

Use your current job title or other variations.

Example: A sales representative looking for a similar job / same industry might search for job titles, job functions, or industry terms such as account representative, sales executive, new business development, inside sales, field sales, telecommunications

If you're making a career transition:

Search for job titles or job functions that reflect your ideal job.

Example: A sales rep who wants to change industries might do a search using job titles and "desired" industries: sales, pharmaceutical, medical, hospital sales

Search for job titles or job functions that reflect where you want to go.

Example: A sales rep who's ready to move into management might search for job titles (sales management, sales manager, regional trainer) or job functions (regional sales, sales leadership, strategic planning, B2B)

• Jargon / Buzzwords
• Hard Skills
• Transferable Skills
• Technology Terms
• Certifications
• Product Names
• Area Codes
• Technical Acronyms
• Technical Expertise
• Degrees
• Names of Colleges
• Names of Companies
• Personality Traits