ATS-Friendly Resume Keywords: What Recruiters Look for in 2025

Have you ever wondered why you are not getting callbacks and interviews even if you’re highly qualified? This happens because your resume lacks the perfect keywords to pass the ATS.

Resumes are first filtered through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)- a software tool that employers use to screen and filter resumes against specific criteria, before they land on the desk of any hiring manager. That is where the appropriate ATS resume keywords can make a great deal of difference.

Let us break down how resume optimization works and how you can use it to enhance your chances of being noticed.

Why Keywords Matter and Where You Should Add Them in Your Resume?

Nowadays, in most companies, the use of an Applicant Tracking System for screening resumes is implemented prior to being passed to a hiring officer. These systems are programmed to look for specific keywords from the job description. Some resumes are simply rejected for having the wrong words, even if the candidate is highly qualified.

ATS Resume keywords are important because:

They match your resume with the job posting, ensuring it’s relevant.

They improve your ATS score, pushing your resume to the top of the stack.

They help recruiters spot your strengths quickly in case of mass hiring.

Where to Add Keywords in Your Resume for Maximum Impact:

Adding the right keywords is what makes your resume both ATS-friendly and appealing to recruiters. But just dumping them all in one section won’t do the trick. You need to place them strategically across your resume.

Here’s where to add keywords smartly:

1. Skills Section (Quick Snapshot)

This is where you highlight hard skills, tools, and technologies. Make it easy for ATS to scan. Use bullet points or a clean list format.

Example:

Skills: Java, Python, SQL, Adobe Illustrator, Salesforce, Data Analysis, Agile, SAP

Tip: Match the exact terms used in the job description. If they say “Google Sheets,” avoid saying “Spreadsheets”, be specific.

2. Experience Section (Show, Don’t Just Tell)

This is the best place to demonstrate your skills using action verbs and results. This section is also heavily scanned by ATS and recruiters alike.

Example:

Worked with cross-functional teams using Agile methodology to deliver a CRM solution via Salesforce, reducing customer service time by 20%.

This not only proves you know Agile and Salesforce, but also shows real value.

3. Summary or Profile Section (First Impressions Count)

If you use a professional summary at the top of your resume, sprinkle 2–3 high-impact keywords here to align with the job’s core requirements.

Example:

Detail-oriented data analyst with 5+ years of experience in SQL, Tableau, and data-driven strategy. Proven track record in market analysis and forecasting.

4. Certifications & Education Section

If you have certifications or specialized training (like PMP, Six Sigma, Google Analytics), mention them clearly with the exact titles; ATS searches for those.

Example:

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) | Google Data Analytics Certificate

5. Tools & Technologies Section (Optional, but Powerful)

If you’ve worked with many platforms or software, you can break out a separate section for tools, especially useful for technical, creative, or digital roles.

Example:

Tools & Platforms: Jira, Figma, HubSpot, Canva, Trello, Excel (Pivot Tables), Power BI

6. Cover Letter (Your Strategic Advantage)

While most focus on just the resume, don’t ignore the cover letter for job application. It’s another great place to include ATS resume keywords, especially soft skills and job-specific phrases that didn’t fit naturally in your resume.

Example:

“I am excited about the opportunity to bring my project management experience and Agile mindset to your dynamic team.”

A tailored cover letter not only improves ATS visibility but also lets you tell your story in a human voice, something no bot can replace.