Research suggests that 66% of large companies use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to go through CVs and streamline talent, meaning an average of 75% of CVs submitted by applicants don’t get read by a human.

The job market is now just as competitive as it was before, especially in the wake of ongoing redundancies across the country which is pushing people back on the job hunt. Between November 2023 and January 2024 there were around 133,000 redundancies made in the UK according to Which?, this sparks more concern around individuals’ job security, especially during the cost of living crisis.

With the use of AI increasing in the recruitment industry, can also mean some of your CVs for the jobs you’ve applied for won’t get chosen by the AI tool which means it will not be shortlisted and seen by a human. 

 Dr George Sik, a leading psychologist and Director of Assessment at eras, has revealed the keywords you need in order to stand out and convince the AI tool that you’re the right match for the job. He’s broken down the different industries that people will be applying for and some of the words that recruiters look out for which best matches you to the job and what appears the most on ATS. 

Law

For those looking for careers in the law industry will know this is a very competitive sector to achieve your dream role in. Eras have found some of the keywords to include in your CV, such as these five: Account management, analytical skills, client relationships, law enforcement, and litigation. 

Business

The five keywords to look out for in job descriptions and add to your CV are: Business management, Leadership, customer orientated, problem solving and project planning. 

Human Resources

Finance skills, Legal knowledge, Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS), Scheduling, Computer proficiency. 

Teaching

For those looking to go into a job role in teaching, you could include: Classroom management, discipline management/strategies, educational assessment, Parent involvement and relationship building. 

Software Engineers

Programming (these languages can include Java, Python and C++), computer science knowledge, knowledge of coding languages (list the specific ones you know), software design and project management. 

Marketing 

Brand management, writing and editing, market research, account management and promotion strategies. 

Graphic Design

Design software (such as Adobe, list relevant ones you use), creative, print design, layout and typography.