On resumes and application forms, why do job seekers make statements or insert key words that do not truthfully describe their qualifications?
To outsmart automated tracking systems
To hide deficiencies in technical skills
To demonstrate their initiative and creativity
To match the stated job requirements’
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is: To outsmart automated tracking systems.
Job seekers often insert keywords or make statements on their resumes and application forms to increase their chances of passing through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). ATS is software used by many companies to screen resumes and application forms before they are reviewed by human recruiters. These systems are designed to filter out candidates who do not include specific keywords or phrases related to the job description.
Since ATS scans resumes for relevant keywords related to job qualifications, experience, and skills, applicants may strategically use these terms, even if they don’t possess those skills or qualifications. This helps their resumes pass the initial screening and make it to a recruiter’s desk for further review.
For example, if a job posting includes certain technical terms, like “data analysis,” “project management,” or “machine learning,” a candidate may include these terms in their resume—even if their experience doesn’t fully match the requirement—hoping to increase their chances of being shortlisted by the ATS. This tactic is particularly common when applicants are trying to transition into a new industry or job role and may not have the exact experience the company is asking for.
However, this practice is risky. If candidates are invited for an interview, they could be caught in a situation where they cannot demonstrate the skills they claimed to have, which could result in disappointment for both the candidate and the employer. Furthermore, misrepresenting qualifications or fabricating skills can harm a candidate’s professional reputation if discovered, even if they did not intend to deceive.
In short, while many job seekers use keywords to optimize their resumes for ATS, the goal is often to align their resume with the job description, which may result in embellishing qualifications they may not fully possess.