How to Identify Keywords from Job Descriptions to Target Your CV Effectively

Why a Targeted CV is Your Secret Weapon in the Job Search

Getting a job can be a numbers game. With hundreds of applicants vying for the same role, it's easy to feel like your CV is lost in the shuffle. You've meticulously crafted your CV, but the silence from recruiters can be deafening. The good news is that you can change the odds in your favour. The secret? A targeted CV. This guide will show you how to write a targeted CV that not only gets you noticed but also gets you hired.

What is a Targeted CV and Why is it So Important?

A targeted CV is a customised version of your CV that is specifically tailored to the requirements of a particular job advertisement. Think of it as a bespoke suit, perfectly fitted to the dimensions of a specific role, rather than a one-size-fits-all t-shirt. While a generic CV simply lists your work history and skills, a targeted CV strategically highlights the experiences and qualifications that are most relevant to the job you're applying for.

Defining a Targeted CV

At its core, a targeted CV is a document that speaks directly to the needs of the employer. It's a CV that has been carefully crafted to align with the language, keywords, and priorities outlined in the job description. This means that for every job you apply to, you'll have a slightly different version of your CV. It's more work, yes, but the payoff is significant.

The Role of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

One of the biggest hurdles your CV needs to overcome is the Applicant Tracking System (ATS). An ATS is a software application that employers use to manage the recruitment process. It scans CVs for specific keywords and phrases to determine if a candidate is a good fit for the role. If your CV isn't optimised for the ATS, it may never even reach a human hiring manager. A targeted CV, rich with the right keywords, is your best defence against the ATS filter. To learn more about why most CVs don't get seen, read our article on Why Most CVs Are Invisible in 2025.

The Benefits of a Targeted CV

The benefits of taking the time to write a targeted CV are numerous:

• Increased Visibility: A targeted CV is more likely to pass the ATS scan and land in the hands of a recruiter.
• Shows Genuine Interest: It demonstrates to the employer that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the position.
• Highlights Your Value: It allows you to showcase your most relevant skills and accomplishments, making a stronger case for your candidacy.

How to Write a Targeted CV: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you understand the "what" and "why" of a targeted CV, let's dive into the "how." Follow these steps to create a CV that is perfectly tailored to your dream job.

Step 1: Start with a Master CV

Before you start tailoring your CV for each job application, it's essential to have a master CV. A master CV is a comprehensive document that includes all of your work experience, skills, accomplishments, and education. This document is for your eyes only and serves as a repository of all your professional information. Having a master CV will save you time in the long run, as you can simply copy and paste relevant information into your targeted CV.

Step 2: Deconstruct the Job Advertisement

The job advertisement is your cheat sheet for creating a targeted CV. Print it out or open it in a separate window and carefully read through it. As you read, highlight or make a list of the key responsibilities, qualifications, and skills that the employer is looking for. Pay close attention to the language they use, as you'll want to mirror that language in your CV.

For example, let's say you're applying for a marketing manager position. The job advertisement might include phrases like "develop and execute marketing campaigns," "manage social media channels," and "analyse marketing data." These are the keywords and phrases you'll want to incorporate into your CV.

Step 3: Identify the Key Keywords

Once you've deconstructed the job advertisement, it's time to identify the key keywords. These are the words and phrases that the ATS and hiring manager will be looking for. Keywords can be broken down into three categories:

• Hard Skills: These are teachable skills that can be measured, such as "project management," "data analysis," or "graphic design."
• Soft Skills: These are interpersonal skills that describe how you work, such as "communication," "teamwork," or "problem-solving."
• Company-Specific Keywords: These are keywords that are unique to the company or industry, such as the name of a specific software or technology.

Here's an example of how to identify keywords in a job advertisement for a software engineer role:

Job Advertisement Snippet:

We are looking for a skilled software engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience with Java, Python, and Agile methodologies. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing software solutions. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are a must.

Keywords to Target:

• Java
• Python
• Agile methodologies
• designing, developing, and testing software solutions
• problem-solving
• communication skills

Step 4: Tailor Your CV Sections

Now it's time to start tailoring your CV. Here's how to approach each section:

• Professional Summary: Your professional summary is the first thing a hiring manager will read, so it's important to make a strong impression. Rewrite your summary to reflect the key requirements of the job. For example, if the job description emphasises "leadership," be sure to include that word in your summary.
• Work Experience: This is where you can really shine. For each of your previous roles, focus on the accomplishments and responsibilities that are most relevant to the job you're applying for. Use the keywords you identified in the job advertisement to describe your experience. Instead of simply listing your duties, use action verbs and quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Skills Section: Create a dedicated skills section that lists your most relevant hard and soft skills. This is a great place to include keywords that you couldn't naturally fit into your work experience section.
• Education and Certifications: If the job advertisement requires a specific degree or certification, be sure to highlight it in this section.

Step 5: Quantify Your Achievements (When It Makes Sense)

Numbers can be powerful, but only when they're meaningful. Vague claims like "improved team efficiency by 20%" are meaningless without context. Instead of sprinkling your CV with impressive-sounding but empty numbers, focus on achievements that are both relevant and measurable.

When you can, use specific data to demonstrate your impact. For example, instead of saying "Managed a team of sales representatives," you could say, "Led a team of 10 sales representatives to achieve a 15% increase in quarterly sales." This provides concrete evidence of your accomplishments.

However, don't force it. It's better to have a few impactful, quantifiable achievements than a long list of meaningless metrics. As a rule of thumb, aim for no more than one or two measurable achievements per work experience entry.

How to Write a Targeted CV for a Specific Job

Writing a targeted CV for a specific job requires a bit of extra effort, but it's well worth it. Here are a few tips:

• Research the Company: Before you start writing, take some time to research the company. What are their values? What is their mission? What is their company culture like? You can usually find this information on their website or social media channels. Incorporating this information into your CV will show that you're a good fit for the company.
• Use the Same Language as the Job Advertisement: As you write your CV, try to use the same language as the job advertisement. This will help your CV get past the ATS and will also show the hiring manager that you're a good fit for the role.
• Focus on the Most Relevant Experience: You don't need to include every single job you've ever had on your CV. Instead, focus on the experience that is most relevant to the job you're applying for. This will make your CV more concise and easier to read.

Targeted CV Examples in Action

Let's take a look at a few targeted CV examples to see how this all comes together in practice.

Example 1: Marketing Manager

Job Advertisement Snippet:

"We're seeking a results-orientated Marketing Manager to lead our demand generation strategy. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of developing and executing successful B2B marketing campaigns, managing a team of marketing professionals, and driving MQL growth. Experience with HubSpot, Salesforce, and Google Analytics is essential."

Targeted CV Snippet (Work Experience):

Marketing Manager | ABC Company | 2019 - Present

• Developed and executed multi-channel B2B marketing campaigns that resulted in a 25% increase in MQL growth year-over-year.
• Managed a team of 5 marketing professionals, providing mentorship and guidance to drive team success.
• Utilised HubSpot and Salesforce to automate marketing and sales processes.
• Analysed campaign performance using Google Analytics to optimise marketing spend and drive a higher ROI.

Example 2: Software Engineer

Job Advertisement Snippet:

"We are looking for a skilled software engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience with Java, Python, and Agile methodologies. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing software solutions. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are a must."

Targeted CV Snippet (Skills Section):

Technical Skills:

• Programming Languages: Java, Python, C++
• Development Tools: Git, Jira, Jenkins
• Methodologies: Agile, Scrum

Targeted CV Snippet (Work Experience):

Software Engineer | XYZ Inc. | 2020 - Present

• Designed, developed, and tested scalable and reliable software solutions using Java and Python.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams in an Agile environment to deliver high-quality software on time.
• Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills by debugging and resolving complex technical issues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Targeted CV

As you write your targeted CV, be mindful of these common pitfalls:

• Keyword Stuffing: While it's important to include keywords, don't overdo it. Keyword stuffing is the practice of loading your CV with keywords to the point where it becomes unreadable. This will not only turn off hiring managers but can also get your CV flagged by the ATS.
• Using the Same CV for Every Application: The whole point of a targeted CV is that it's tailored to a specific job. If you're using the same CV for every application, you're doing it wrong.
• Ignoring Company Culture: Take some time to research the company and get a feel for their culture. Your CV should reflect the company's tone and values. For example, a CV for a creative agency might look very different from a CV for a financial institution.
• Not Proofreading: Typos and grammatical errors can make you look unprofessional and careless. Always proofread your CV multiple times before submitting it.

Take Your CV to the Next Level with Reztune

Creating a targeted CV for every job application can be a time-consuming process. But what if there was a way to automate the process and ensure your CV is perfectly optimised every time? That's where Reztune comes in.

Reztune is an AI-powered CV builder that takes the guesswork out of CV writing. Simply upload your CV and the job advertisement, and Reztune will analyse the job posting, extract the key keywords, and rewrite your CV to match the requirements of the job. With Reztune, you can create a professionally written, ATS-optimised CV in minutes, not hours. Learn more about how it works here.

Ready to take the guesswork out of CV writing? Let Reztune's AI-powered platform do the heavy lifting for you. Sign up for free and start creating a targeted CV that gets results.

Conclusion: Your CV is a Marketing Document – Treat it Like One

Your CV is your most powerful marketing tool in the job search. By creating a targeted CV that is tailored to each specific job, you can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview. Remember to focus on keywords, quantify your achievements, and showcase your most relevant skills and experience. With a little extra effort, you can create a CV that opens doors to your dream job.

Ready to land your dream job? Try Reztune for free today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long should my CV be?

Ideally, your CV should be one page long. However, if you have extensive experience, it can be two pages.

Should I include a cover letter with my targeted CV?

Yes, you should always include a cover letter unless the job advertisement specifically says not to. A cover letter is a great opportunity to expand on your CV and show your personality.

How often should I update my CV?

You should update your CV every time you apply for a new job. You should also update your master CV every few months to ensure it's current.

Is a targeted CV important for a career change?

Yes, a targeted CV is crucial when you're making a career change. It allows you to highlight your transferable skills and show how your past experience is relevant to the new role you're targeting.

Where can I find a good CV template?

There are many great CV templates available online. Look for a template that is clean, professional, and easy to read. Reztune offers a variety of ATS-optimised CV templates to choose from.

Is it okay to use a generic CV?

While it may be tempting to use a generic CV to save time, it's not the most effective strategy. A generic CV is unlikely to impress a hiring manager or pass an ATS scan. Taking the time to create a targeted CV will significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.

Should I include volunteer work on my CV?

Yes, you can definitely include volunteer work on your CV, especially if it's relevant to the job you're applying for. Volunteer work can be a great way to demonstrate your skills and experience, especially if you have gaps in your employment history.

How can a targeted CV help me in my job hunt?

A targeted CV can help you in your job hunt by making your application stand out to recruiters and hiring managers. It shows that you've taken the time to understand the role and that you're a serious candidate. This can lead to more interviews and a better chance of landing your dream job.

What is an ATS CV?

An ATS CV is a CV that has been formatted and optimised to be easily read by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). This means using a clean and simple format, standard fonts, and relevant keywords.

What is a CV builder?

A CV builder is an online tool that helps you create a professional CV. CV builders often provide templates, writing prompts, and other features to make the CV writing process easier. Reztune is an AI-powered CV builder that can help you create a targeted CV in minutes.