5 AGCAREERS.COMAGRICULTURE & FOOD CAREER GUIDE Most people turn to the internet when beginning their job search. Even if a friend or family member initially tells you about a job opening, you are likely to complete one or more steps of the process online. You may think personal interactions, phone or video calls, and in-person conversations fill the job search and application process, however, it often begins with a simple online keyword search and submitting your application and resume through a digital platform like AgCareers.com. KEYWORDS We are all familiar with beginning any online search by inputting relevant keywords into the search bar. Just as you use keywords to find job openings, they are also essential to getting your application noticed by employers too. We asked the AgCareers.com network of 100,000+ social media followers, “Do you know how to use keywords when applying for jobs?” A significant trend in online job searching and hiring is using keywords. As many companies and sites use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), it is essential to understand how keywords work. This ATS technology electronically manages applications and screens candidates. It is a necessity to incorporate keywords into your resume and cover letter. Applicant Tracking Systems & employers look for words in your resume and cover letter that match the job description. Customize your resume for each position by including job posting keywords matching your qualifications. You will notice keywords and phrases that are emphasized or repeated in the position description; build these words into your resume. However, do not go too farbe wary of stuffing keywords into your document, avoid copying straight from the job description, or overusing these words inappropriately. You should make sure that the terms used are not just listed but that they also make sense in a sentence. Your overstuffed resume may make it through the ATS, but hiring managers will likely throw it aside. If you randomly inserted keywords throughout your document to make it past the ATS, the people behind the system will notice in the next step of the process. ONLINE PROFILES If you are searching for jobs and researching employers on the web, they are likely also looking online for more information about you. Review your social media content and google yourself—what comes up? What will employers find? Will it help your job search or derail it? It is important to update your digital profiles, including your volunteering and activities related to your chosen job field. Many employers search our profiles, work history, education, and online shared content. You want to be sure that you are highlighting yourself in the best way possible and not sabotaging yourself. People often need to remember to investigate and question their association with others. Who are you following? What comments have you made on others’ profiles? It may be time to unfollow some accounts that do not align with your values. SEARCHING ON AGCAREERS.COM The AgCareers.com site has an entire menu devoted to search tools. Beyond the simple keyword search or city/province front and center on the homepage, you can also use the advanced tools to search through jobs by various criteria. • Internships • Temporary Jobs • Recently added jobs • Job Title • Industry • Location Beyond that, the advanced search button provides a simple, effective method to narrow your results. Search by region, job type, years of experience, remote/work-from-home opportunities, an exact phrase, or even exclude words from your search. > > > By Bonnie Johnson, Marketing & Communications Manager and Paula West, Digital Experience Project Manager, AgCareers.com
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