3.1 Job descriptions and keywords

3.1

Job Descriptions & Keywords

You need these to write your CV and cover letter

Job Descriptions: What are they?

“A job description provides candidates with an outline of the main duties and responsibilities of the role for which they are applying, as well as an overview of the organisation.” (Source: LinkedIn)

The job description is also used by the recruiters or hiring manager to assess how compatible is your job application with the requirements and needs of the role you are applying for. In addition the job description, is used as the basis of your employment contract in this role if you were successful.

Therefore, job description is what the employer or hiring manager rely on to decide if they should move forward and interview you.

Keywords: What are they?

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Think about it first: Since both the CV and Cover letter are in paper or document formats, one element distinguishes one CV from another can you guess what is it?

The answer is: WORDS when it comes to job application these words are known as KEYWORDS are the decisive element that make or break a CV and Cover letter.

The vast majority of online job applications use some form of ATS which stands for Application Tracking System to screen CVs and Cover letter for these specific keywords, if your CV or cover letter does not pass the initial ATS screening, chances are the recruiter or employer will not get to see it.

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How to pass the ATS Screening- For the employer to look at your CV or cover letter Your CV and Cover letter should:

1. Have a clear structure and headings

2. Not have any images or graphics

3. Have many KEYWORDS

Keywords in CV (also known as resume) and Cover letter

As you might have realised and as their name indicates, these are the most significant words in your CV and Cover letter.

"A resume keyword is a word or phrase that describes a required skill, qualification, responsibility or credential relevant to a particular job. They can relate to both hard skills (technical skills) and soft skillsLink opens in a new window, education levels or certain types of experience. The most relevant keywords for a particular position can often be found in the job posting. They are used by employers, whether by manual scan or through the use of an applicant tracking system (ATS), to filter applicants and quickly identify whether a candidate’s experience matches what they’re looking for." (Source: Indeed)

These are the words that the job description or job post is referring to, you MUST use these keywords in your CV/Resume and Cover letter to show the recruiter or employer that your qualifications and the skills are compatible with what the job post/description of the job you are applying to is asking.

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For that reason, each job vacancy has its own keywords which you would need to update or customise your CV/Resume and Cover letter to include (in Module 8 will explain and guide you on how to do that). This also means that more often than not the exact same CV should not be used for more than one job.

Go to section: 3.2 Main components of CV & Cover letter

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