How to optimize your resume for the algorithms

With technological advancements reducing the time it takes to screen resumes, it’s no wonder algorithms are commonly used to streamline the hiring process. After all, one job posting ad can elicit hundreds of responses, many of which may be unsuitable, yet all must be screened to identify suitable candidates.

With the help of artificial intelligence (AI) and automated machine learning algorithms, this time-consuming process can instead take seconds, allowing recruiters and hiring managers to provide a more personal service and engage with skilled and experienced professionals.

Include soft skills on your resume

Job seekers should include soft skills on their resume by incorporating keywords for the required soft skills of the position. Include keywords like “communicate,” “adapt,” “organize,” “time management,” or “professionalism.” Highlight soft skills on your resume to showcase your “people skills”. Using soft skills is a great way to describe your achievements on your resume and LinkedIn profile. 

For example: “I used my time management skills to successfully plan an annual conference, with a strict budget in a short time frame.”

Types of soft skills:

• Communication 
• Flexibility 
• Time management 
• Motivation 
• Problem solving 
• Work ethic 

Ensure you link keywords with proof that you did your previous jobs well. A simple trick is to combine an action verb with a keyword. For example, instead of writing that you “always achieved your target goals,” try “I surpassed target goals by 20% in Q1 and 18% year-on-year.”

Use our free resume template or submit your own to get started!

Create a strong LinkedIn profile 

A lot of people leave the summary field blank, but you should use the full character count to highlight your successes, skills and value. Of course, use appropriate keywords here too. 

It’s also important to avoid unusual job titles. Even if your official job title is unconventional, use an industry-standard title in your resume and online profile so that is recognizable for algorithms. Also, remember to ensure your resume is in the accepted format instead of an alternative style. This ensures that the algorithms can identify your resume and prevent your application from being put in the “no” pile immediately.

Recruitment will always remain a people business. At its heart are trusted relationships, which means that the value of the human touch can’t be overestimated. However, technological advancements such as intelligent algorithms are improving some process aspects. Recruitment is evolving, and with these tips, you can grow with it.

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