Using the right keywords in your resume and LinkedIn profile can significantly improve your visibility in recruiter searches.

This chapter explores where to place these SEO-friendly terms—particularly in job titles, skill sections, and endorsements—and how to use AI-driven suggestions to stay aligned with current industry trends.

1. Keyword Placement in Job Titles, Skill Sections, and Endorsements

Job Titles

• Recruiters often search by job title. If you’re a “Full-Stack Developer,” for example, adding niche skills like “Python/Django” or “JavaScript/React” to the title can help you appear in more specific searches.

• How to Do It:

  1. Customize for Each Role: If your role was a broad “Software Engineer,” but you specialized in back-end systems, consider adding “Back-End Focus” or key technologies you used.

  2. Avoid Overstuffing: Don’t go overboard with too many terms (e.g., “Software Engineer | Java | Python | JavaScript | React”). Keep it readable.

Skill Sections

• Skills listed in your resume or LinkedIn profile are directly used by both Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and LinkedIn’s algorithm to filter candidates.

• How to Do It:

  1. Group Similar Skills: If you have expertise in multiple JavaScript frameworks, list them together so they’re easy to spot.

  2. Prioritize Relevance: Place high-demand or job-specific skills at the top of your list.

  3. Be Specific: Instead of just “Project Management,” include “Agile Project Management” or “Scrum Master” if applicable.

Endorsements

• Endorsements on LinkedIn provide social proof. Recruiters can see which skills you’re recognized for and how many people have endorsed you.

• How to Do It:

  1. Ask for Endorsements: Politely request endorsements from former colleagues or managers for your top-priority skills.

  2. Endorse Others: Often, endorsing peers for their valid skills results in reciprocal endorsements for yours.

2. AI-Driven Suggestions to Stay Current with Trending Terms

Industry buzzwords change quickly, and staying updated can keep you ahead of the curve.

AI tools like ChatGPT can help you identify emerging technologies, methodologies, or role-specific language that recruiters are searching for.

How to Do It

1. Request Keyword Lists

   • Prompt Example:
     “Give me 10 trending skills and keywords in the product management field for 2023, focusing on agile methodologies and user research.”

2. Cross-Reference with Job Descriptions

   • If ChatGPT suggests “data-driven product decisions,” see if multiple job ads also mention this term. If so, incorporate it into your skill set or summary.

3. Iterate Regularly

   • Monthly or Quarterly Check: Prompt ChatGPT to see if any new trends or buzzwords have gained traction in your industry.

   • Update your resume or LinkedIn profile accordingly, ensuring it reflects current language without losing accuracy.

Quick Recap

• Place Keywords Strategically: Incorporate them into your job titles, skill sections, and LinkedIn endorsements to improve search rankings.

• Stay Relevant with AI: Use ChatGPT to discover or verify trending industry terms and refresh your profile content periodically.

• Balance Clarity and SEO: While keywords are crucial, maintain natural language so your resume and LinkedIn profile remain clear, professional, and appealing to both humans and automated systems.