When applying for jobs, it’s tempting to fill your resume with every skill and keyword from the job description. But stuffing keywords can make your resume feel forced and unnatural. Instead, focus on adapting your resume for each application in a way that feels genuine. Here’s how to make your resume a perfect fit for every job, while keeping it readable and engaging.

Start with a Simple Approach

First, read the job description thoroughly. Understand what the employer really needs in a candidate. Pay attention to the main skills and responsibilities they mention—these are your guideposts.

Then, ask yourself:

• Which of these skills do I have?
• Which achievements can I highlight that match these responsibilities?
• How does my experience align with their needs?

By answering these questions, you’ll avoid overloading your resume with unnecessary keywords. You’ll know exactly where to focus.

Find the Core Keywords

Keywords are essential, but they should fit naturally. Focus on the core terms related to the job, like specific skills or tools the job description mentions repeatedly. For technical writing roles, this might include terms like:

• API documentation
• Technical guides
• Collaboration with developers

Once you’ve identified these main keywords, use them sparingly but strategically. Place them where they fit most naturally, such as:

• Your professional summary
• Your skills section
• Key achievements in your experience

Emphasize Achievements Over Keywords

Instead of listing keywords without context, show how you used these skills in real work situations. For example:

• Instead of: “Worked on API documentation.”
• Try: “Created API documentation that improved user understanding, reducing support requests by 15%.”

This method highlights your experience and impact, not just your familiarity with terms.

Use Synonyms to Broaden Your Keyword Range

Using synonyms keeps your resume from feeling repetitive while still covering essential terms. If the job description says “user guides,” try including “user manuals” or “product documentation” in your resume where relevant. This variety helps Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) see the depth of your experience. It avoids making your resume look like a keyword list.

Here are a few examples for technical writing jobs:

• “Documentation standards” can also be “content standards” or “writing guidelines.”
• “User-focused” can also be “reader-centered” or “audience-driven.”

Showcase Soft Skills Without Overdoing It

Soft skills are valuable but can feel generic if not backed by examples. Instead of listing “team player” or “strong communicator,” use examples that highlight these qualities.

For instance:

• “Led weekly meetings with cross-functional teams, enhancing project alignment.”
• “Adapted documentation to meet audience needs, improving user satisfaction.”

This approach helps recruiters see your soft skills in action, showing rather than telling.

Make It Easy to Read

Resumes should be simple and straightforward. Avoid cramming in too much information. Use white space and bullet points to make your resume readable. Stick to standard fonts and formatting so ATS systems can scan it without issues.

A clean layout also helps human reviewers find what they need fast. Studies show recruiters spend only about 6-7 seconds on initial resume scans, so make yours easy to follow.

Proofread and Adjust for Each Job

Finally, check over your resume to ensure it’s tailored yet still sounds like you. Look for areas where you can swap out keywords, add specifics, or clarify language. Then, proofread to catch small errors that could impact how professional you appear.

By adapting your resume thoughtfully, you can make it a perfect match for each job you apply to. This approach impresses ATS systems. It also helps you stand out to hiring managers as a candidate who truly fits the role.