TL;DR: Learn how to identify and use the right ATS keywords from job descriptions. Practical strategies to improve your CV match score without keyword stuffing.
How ATS Keyword Matching Works
Applicant Tracking Systems compare your CV against the job description using keyword matching algorithms. The system looks for specific terms — job titles, skills, qualifications, tools, and certifications — and scores your CV based on how many it finds. A higher match score means your CV is more likely to be seen by a human recruiter.
How to Extract the Right Keywords
Read the job description line by line. Highlight:
• Required skills and qualifications
• Specific tools or software mentioned
• Industry-specific terminology
• Action verbs used in the responsibilities section
• Certifications or accreditations
Prioritise words that appear multiple times — repetition signals importance to the employer.
Where to Place Keywords in Your CV
Place keywords in three strategic locations:
1. Professional Summary — weave in 3–5 core keywords naturally
2. Skills Section — list specific tools, methodologies, and competencies
3. Experience Section — use keywords within achievement statements
Don't create a hidden "keywords" section. ATS software flags this as manipulation.
What Is Keyword Stuffing (and Why It Backfires)
Keyword stuffing means cramming keywords into your CV unnaturally — repeating them excessively, hiding them in white text, or listing them without context. Modern ATS software detects this and may penalise your application. More importantly, even if your CV passes the ATS, a human recruiter will immediately notice and reject it.
The Right Way: Contextual Keywords
Instead of: "Project management, project management, project management skills"
Write: "Managed a cross-functional project team of 8, delivering a £200K system migration 2 weeks ahead of schedule using Agile methodology."
This naturally includes "project", "team", "Agile", and "system migration" — all potential ATS keywords — while also demonstrating real achievement.
Using Our ATS Optimiser Tool
Our free ATS Keyword Optimiser lets you paste a job description and your CV side by side. It analyses both, shows your match score, identifies missing keywords, and provides specific suggestions for improvement. It takes 30 seconds and can dramatically improve your shortlisting chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many keywords should I include in my CV?
There's no magic number. Focus on covering all the Essential Requirements from the job description. Typically this means 15–25 relevant keywords naturally distributed across your CV.
Should I use the exact words from the job description?
Yes, where possible. If the job says "stakeholder management", use that exact phrase rather than a synonym like "working with people". ATS systems often match exact terms.