Copywriter Resume: ATS Keywords That Get You Hired

Land a Copywriter Job: Keywords That Beat the ATS

Getting your Copywriter resume past the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is the first hurdle to landing your dream job. You’ve crafted compelling campaigns, but can you sell yourself on paper? This isn’t just about listing skills; it’s about speaking the ATS’s language and showcasing the impact you’ve made.

What This Is and Isn’t

• This is: How to optimize your resume and LinkedIn profile to get past the ATS and into the hands of a hiring manager.
• This isn’t: A guide to general resume writing or career advice. We’re focusing specifically on what works for Copywriters.

The Copywriter’s ATS Edge: Your Promise

By the end of this, you’ll have: (1) a copy/paste script to use when networking on LinkedIn, (2) a checklist to ensure your resume includes the right keywords, (3) and a proof plan to showcase your skills with metrics. This is the playbook I’d give a Copywriter I’m about to interview. You’ll walk out with exact wording, exact structure, and a step-by-step plan you can run this week.

What You’ll Walk Away With

• A LinkedIn networking message you can send today to connect with industry professionals.
• A resume keyword checklist to optimize your resume for ATS.
• A proof plan to turn your skills into measurable achievements.
• A list of action verbs that resonate with hiring managers.
• A guide on how to quantify your accomplishments and showcase your impact.
• A list of common mistakes to avoid when optimizing your resume.
• A list of preferred skills for Copywriters.
• A list of tools that are required.

What a Hiring Manager Scans for in 15 Seconds

Hiring managers spend mere seconds scanning a resume, looking for specific keywords and proof of impact. They’re trying to quickly assess if you have the core skills and experience to succeed in the role.

• Clear understanding of core copywriting principles: They want to see that you know your way around different writing styles and formats.
• Experience with different platforms: They’re looking for experience with social media, website content, email marketing, and more.
• Ability to drive results: They want to see that you can generate leads, increase sales, or improve brand awareness through your writing.
• Strong communication skills: They need someone who can clearly and concisely communicate ideas, both in writing and verbally.
• Adaptability: The ability to quickly learn new technologies and adapt to changing project requirements.

Keyword Categories for Copywriters: Your Arsenal

Keywords are the building blocks of your resume, helping the ATS understand your skills and experience. To maximize your chances of success, focus on these key categories:

• Core Copywriting Skills: SEO copywriting, content strategy, email marketing, social media marketing, brand storytelling, creative writing, script writing, technical writing, UX writing, product descriptions.
• Industry-Specific Terms: Depending on your experience, include terms related to your industry, such as “financial copywriting,” “healthcare content marketing,” or “e-commerce product descriptions.”
• Tools & Technologies: Google Analytics, SEMrush, Ahrefs, HubSpot, Mailchimp, WordPress, Adobe Creative Suite, Google Docs, Microsoft Office Suite.
• Action Verbs: Crafted, developed, generated, optimized, increased, improved, launched, managed, wrote, edited, implemented, produced, enhanced.
• Soft Skills: Communication, collaboration, creativity, problem-solving, time management, adaptability, attention to detail, research, critical thinking.

The Mistake That Quietly Kills Candidates

Vague language is a silent killer. Claiming you “improved website traffic” is far less compelling than stating “Increased website traffic by 25% in 6 months through SEO-optimized blog content.”

Use this when rewriting your bullets:

Weak: Improved website traffic.

Strong: Increased website traffic by 25% in 6 months through SEO-optimized blog content.

Action Verbs That Sell: Words That Work

Strong action verbs can make your resume stand out and highlight your accomplishments. Use these verbs to showcase your impact:

• Crafted: Use this to describe how you created compelling copy for various platforms.
• Developed: Use this to describe how you created content strategies and marketing campaigns.
• Generated: Use this to describe how you increased leads, sales, or brand awareness through your writing.
• Optimized: Use this to describe how you improved website traffic, conversion rates, or engagement through SEO and content optimization.
• Increased: Use this to describe how you drove measurable results for your clients or company.
• Improved: Use this to describe how you enhanced the quality, readability, or effectiveness of content.
• Launched: Use this to describe how you introduced new products, services, or campaigns to the market.
• Managed: Use this to describe how you oversaw content projects, editorial calendars, or social media accounts.
• Wrote: Use this to describe how you created engaging copy for various platforms, including websites, blogs, and social media.
• Edited: Use this to describe how you revised and improved content for clarity, accuracy, and style.

Quantify Your Impact: Numbers That Speak Volumes

Quantifying your accomplishments with metrics and data makes your resume more compelling and demonstrates your ability to drive results. Whenever possible, use numbers to showcase your impact:

• Website Traffic: Increased website traffic by 30% in 3 months through SEO-optimized content.
• Conversion Rates: Improved conversion rates by 15% through persuasive copywriting and A/B testing.
• Engagement: Increased social media engagement by 20% through engaging content and community management.
• Leads: Generated 500 new leads through targeted email marketing campaigns.
• Sales: Drove a 10% increase in sales through compelling product descriptions and marketing materials.

Proof Plan: Show, Don’t Tell

It’s not enough to simply list your skills; you need to provide evidence of your accomplishments. This proof plan will help you showcase your expertise:

7-Day Quick Wins:

• Day 1: Identify 3-5 key achievements from your past roles.
• Day 2: Quantify each achievement with specific metrics and data.
• Day 3: Craft compelling resume bullets that showcase your impact.
• Day 4: Optimize your LinkedIn profile with keywords and accomplishments.
• Day 5: Network with industry professionals on LinkedIn, sharing your expertise and insights.
• Day 6: Gather testimonials from former colleagues and clients.
• Day 7: Review and refine your resume and LinkedIn profile based on feedback.

30-Day Deeper Dive:

• Week 1: Conduct thorough research on target companies and their copywriting needs.
• Week 2: Tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job application.
• Week 3: Practice your interview skills and prepare answers to common questions.
• Week 4: Follow up with hiring managers and express your continued interest in the role.

LinkedIn Networking Message: Connect and Engage

Networking on LinkedIn can help you connect with hiring managers and industry professionals. Use this script to start conversations and build relationships:

Use this when reaching out to someone on LinkedIn:

Subject: Connecting with a Fellow Copywriter

Hi [Name],

I came across your profile and was impressed with your work at [Company]. As a Copywriter myself, I’m always looking to connect with others in the field and learn from their experiences.

I’d love to connect and chat about copywriting trends, industry insights, or anything else that comes to mind.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Resume Keyword Checklist: Your Final Scan

Before submitting your resume, use this checklist to ensure you’ve included the right keywords and optimized for the ATS:

• Core Copywriting Skills
• Industry-Specific Terms
• Tools & Technologies
• Action Verbs
• Soft Skills
• Quantified Accomplishments
• Tailored to Job Description
• ATS-Friendly Format
• Clear and Concise Language
• Proofread and Error-Free

FAQ

What are the most important keywords for a Copywriter resume?

The most important keywords for a Copywriter resume include core skills like SEO copywriting, content strategy, email marketing, and social media marketing. Industry-specific terms and tools are also crucial. Remember, it’s about balancing relevance and specificity to showcase your expertise effectively.

How can I tailor my resume to a specific job description?

To tailor your resume, carefully review the job description and identify the key skills and requirements. Then, incorporate those keywords throughout your resume, highlighting your relevant experience and accomplishments. This shows the hiring manager that you’re a strong fit for the role.

What is the best way to quantify my accomplishments as a Copywriter?

Quantify your accomplishments by using metrics and data to showcase your impact. For example, instead of saying “Improved website traffic,” say “Increased website traffic by 30% in 3 months through SEO-optimized content.” Use specific numbers to demonstrate your ability to drive results.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when optimizing my resume for the ATS?

Common mistakes to avoid include using vague language, not quantifying accomplishments, and not tailoring your resume to the job description. Also, avoid using fancy formatting or graphics that the ATS may not be able to read. Keep it simple, clear, and focused on keywords.

How important are soft skills on a Copywriter resume?

Soft skills are very important. While technical skills are essential, soft skills like communication, collaboration, and creativity are crucial for success as a Copywriter. Highlight these skills throughout your resume, providing examples of how you’ve used them to achieve results.

What tools and technologies should I include on my resume?

Include tools and technologies like Google Analytics, SEMrush, Ahrefs, HubSpot, Mailchimp, WordPress, Adobe Creative Suite, Google Docs, and Microsoft Office Suite. These tools are commonly used by Copywriters and demonstrate your ability to work with different platforms and technologies.

How can I make my resume stand out from the competition?

To make your resume stand out, focus on quantifying your accomplishments, showcasing your impact, and tailoring your resume to each job description. Also, highlight your unique skills and experiences, and demonstrate your passion for copywriting.

Should I include a cover letter with my resume?

Yes, including a cover letter is highly recommended. A cover letter allows you to personalize your application and explain why you’re a strong fit for the role. Use the cover letter to showcase your writing skills, highlight your accomplishments, and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

How long should my resume be?

Ideally, your resume should be no more than two pages long. Hiring managers typically spend just a few seconds scanning each resume, so it’s important to keep it concise and focused. Highlight your most relevant skills and experiences, and avoid including unnecessary information.

What format should I use for my resume?

Use a simple, ATS-friendly format like a Word document (.doc or .docx) or a PDF. Avoid using fancy formatting, graphics, or images that the ATS may not be able to read. Keep it clean, clear, and easy to scan.

How can I improve my chances of getting an interview?

To improve your chances of getting an interview, optimize your resume with relevant keywords, quantify your accomplishments, and tailor your resume to each job description. Also, network with industry professionals, practice your interview skills, and follow up with hiring managers.

Should I include a portfolio with my resume?

Yes, including a portfolio is highly recommended. A portfolio allows you to showcase your best writing samples and demonstrate your skills to potential employers. Include a variety of writing styles and formats, and make sure your portfolio is easy to access and navigate.

How often should I update my resume?

Update your resume regularly, especially after completing new projects, acquiring new skills, or gaining new experiences. Keep your resume current and relevant to the job market, and always tailor it to each specific job application.

What if I don’t have a lot of experience as a Copywriter?

If you don’t have a lot of experience, focus on highlighting your skills and accomplishments from other roles or projects. Also, consider volunteering or freelancing to gain more experience and build your portfolio. Showcase your passion for copywriting and your willingness to learn and grow.

How can I address gaps in my work history on my resume?

Address gaps in your work history by explaining the reasons for the gaps and highlighting any skills or experiences you gained during that time. Focus on what you did to stay productive and engaged, such as volunteering, freelancing, or taking courses. Be honest and transparent, and emphasize your eagerness to return to work.

What are some red flags on a Copywriter resume?

Some red flags on a Copywriter resume include typos, grammatical errors, vague language, and a lack of quantifiable accomplishments. Also, avoid using generic templates or including irrelevant information. Keep your resume focused, clear, and error-free.

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