Specific terms relevant to job descriptions in 2016 were essential components of effective resumes. These terms, often reflecting skills, software proficiencies, or industry-specific jargon, helped applicant tracking systems (ATS) identify suitable candidates. For example, a project manager’s resume might have included terms like “Agile,” “Scrum,” or “waterfall” depending on the prevalent project management methodologies of the time.
Proper term usage within a resume significantly increased the likelihood of it being surfaced to recruiters. The increasing reliance on ATS during this period made optimizing resume content for these systems crucial for applicant visibility. This practice reflected the evolving job market and the growing role of technology in recruitment processes. Effective use of relevant terminology not only improved ATS compatibility but also demonstrated an applicant’s understanding of current industry trends and practices to potential employers.
