How to Use Keywords to Get Your Administration Resume Noticed
Most large employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes before a human ever reads them. Here's how administration professionals can use the right keywords to get through the door.
Most large employers now use Applicant Tracking Systems — commonly known as ATS — to filter job applications before a human ever reads them.
This means your resume could be perfectly written and completely overlooked simply because it doesn't contain the right keywords.
For administration professionals, this is particularly important because job titles and duties can vary significantly between organisations.
What Are ATS Keywords?
ATS keywords are the specific words and phrases employers include in their job advertisements. The system scans your resume for these terms and ranks applications accordingly.
Common administration keywords include:
- Executive Assistant
- Office Manager
- Stakeholder Management
- Scheduling and Diary Management
- Document Management
- MYOB / Xero / Microsoft Office
- Project Coordination
- Records Management
How to Tailor Your Resume for Each Application
The most effective approach is to read each job advertisement carefully and mirror the language used. If the advertisement mentions "calendar management", use that exact phrase rather than "diary management".
This does not mean stuffing your resume with keywords — it means ensuring your genuine experience is described using the same language the employer uses.
Where to Place Keywords
Keywords should appear naturally throughout your resume, including in your professional summary, key skills section and within your employment history.
A professionally written resume will incorporate relevant keywords in a way that reads naturally while still satisfying ATS requirements.
At Resume Righters, I research each role and tailor your resume to ensure it performs well with both ATS systems and the hiring managers who read it.
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Written by
Michelle — Resume Righters
Michelle is the founder and lead writer at Resume Righters, with over 14 years of experience crafting resumes for Australians across mining and resources, healthcare, trades, administration, education, and more. Resume Righters holds a proud 5-star Google rating — a reflection of the proven results and glowing testimonials from clients who've landed the roles they were after. Every resume is personally written — no templates, no outsourcing. Michelle takes the time to understand your background, your goals, and the role you're going for, so your resume genuinely reflects who you are and what you bring to the table.