A cover letter is your personal introduction to a prospective employer, presenting the unique blend of skills, experiences, and qualities that make you the ideal candidate for a job. To help your cover letter stand out and land you an interview, you'll need to use the right keywords. These words and phrases can highlight your abilities and catch the attention of hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS). Let's delve into more than 100 effective keywords you should consider incorporating into your cover letter.
1. Action Verbs
Action verbs describe what you've accomplished in your previous roles and are a powerful tool to demonstrate your capabilities.
1. Accelerated
2. Accomplished
3. Achieved
4. Administered
5. Analyzed
6. Boosted
7. Built
8. Collaborated
9. Coordinated
10. Created
11. Decreased
12. Delivered
13. Designed
14. Developed
15. Directed
16. Enhanced
17. Established
18. Executed
19. Expanded
20. Improved
21. Increased
22. Initiated
23. Innovated
24. Led
25. Managed
26. Negotiated
27. Optimized
28. Orchestrated
29. Overhauled
30. Piloted
31. Pioneered
32. Reduced
33. Resolved
34. Streamlined
35. Transformed
36. Upgraded
2. Skills Keywords
Employers look for specific skills in their potential hires. Including skills keywords not only matches your application with the job requirements but also demonstrates your proficiency.
Hard Skills
These are quantifiable, teachable abilities acquired through training and experience.
37. Data analysis
38. Coding
39. Project management
40. Graphic design
41. SEO/SEM marketing
42. Statistical analysis
43. Social media management
44. Software development
45. Technical writing
46. Foreign language proficiency
47. Database management
48. User experience (UX) design
49. Digital marketing
50. Sales strategies
51. Market research
52. Financial modeling
53. CRM systems
54. Quality assurance
Soft Skills
These are personality traits and behaviors that help you work and communicate effectively with others.
55. Teamwork
56. Leadership
57. Communication
58. Problem-solving
59. Adaptability
60. Time management
61. Emotional intelligence
62. Critical thinking
63. Conflict resolution
64. Creativity
65. Decision-making
66. Dependability
67. Flexibility
68. Initiative
69. Motivation
70. Multitasking
71. Negotiation
72. Organizational skills
73. Resilience
74. Patience
3. Adjectives
Adjectives can help provide a more comprehensive picture of your skills and experiences. Use them sparingly and authentically.
75. Adaptable
76. Ambitious
77. Committed
78. Competitive
79. Consistent
80. Creative
81. Detail-oriented
82. Diligent
83. Dynamic
84. Efficient
85. Empathetic
86. Enthusiastic
87. Goal-oriented
88. Innovative
89. Persistent
90. Proactive
91. Reliable
92. Resourceful
93. Self-motivated
94. Skilled
95. Strategic
96. Team-player
97. Versatile
98. Visionary
99. Well-organized
4. Company Culture Keywords
Referencing the company's culture and values in your cover letter can show
you're a good fit for the organization.
100. Collaborative
101. Customer-centric
102. Diversity
103. Innovation
104. Integrity
105. Performance-driven
106. Progressive
107. Quality-focused
108. Sustainable
109. Transparent
110. Value-driven
Incorporating these keywords into your cover letter can help demonstrate your abilities, show your understanding of the role and company, and increase your chances of getting through ATS screenings. However, it's crucial to use these words authentically. Don't just list keywords—provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these skills or traits. Remember, a keyword-stuffed cover letter can come off as disingenuous and may not pass the hiring manager's scrutiny. Balance is key.
With careful attention to the language you use, your cover letter can effectively convey your suitability for the job and make a memorable impression on potential employers. Happy writing!
Unlocking Opportunities: 100 Effective Cover Letter Keywords to Help You Get Hired

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