Best Resume Keywords

The best keywords aren't on a universal list. They're in the job ad you're applying to. Here's how to recognise them and which types matter most.

Five types of keywords employers look for

Examples by field

Words to drop because they say little

First check is free. No account. Your CV / resume isn't stored.

The five types that matter

1. Job titles

The role and level, such as Senior Accountant or Registered Nurse.

2. Tools and systems

Software, platforms and equipment, such as SAP, Salesforce, ECDIS.

3. Certifications and licences

Such as PMP, CPA, STCW, BLS.

4. Hard skills

Specific abilities, such as financial modelling, care planning, SQL.

5. Domain terms

Words for the work itself, such as month-end close, churn reduction, drydock.

Healthcare: patient care, medication administration, EHR, BLS, care planning
Finance: financial modelling, variance analysis, IFRS, month-end close, Excel
Tech: Python, SQL, AWS, REST APIs, CI/CD
Maritime: STCW, watchkeeping, ECDIS, PMS, ISM Code
Customer-facing: CRM, CSAT, complaint handling, onboarding, renewals

For full lists by role, see our keyword guides by job.

Hardworking, team player, motivated, detail-oriented and go-getter rarely help. Show those qualities through results instead.

Paste your CV / resume and the job description to see the keywords and requirements that aren't visible yet.

Works for CVs and resumes in English, German, Swedish, Danish and Norwegian.