Targeted vocabulary, matching specific requirements within job announcements, plays a critical role in applicant tracking systems (ATS). These systems scan submitted resumes for relevant terms associated with desired skills and experience. For example, a position requiring experience with policy analysis might list terms like “policy development,” “legislative analysis,” or “regulatory compliance” as essential qualifications. Resumes incorporating such terminology stand a higher chance of being flagged for review by hiring managers.
Effective selection and placement of relevant terms significantly enhances the visibility of a resume within applicant pools. This practice improves the likelihood of progressing to the interview stage, particularly within the competitive landscape of government hiring. Historically, manually reviewing each application was the standard practice. The increasing volume of applicants has driven the adoption of ATS, making strategic terminology essential for navigating this automated screening process.