Use keyword research to understand job requirements and optimize your letters.
Why Keyword Research Matters
Most companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter resumes and cover letters. These systems look for specific keywords from the job description. By researching and including relevant keywords, you increase your chances of getting past the ATS and into a recruiter’s hands.
How FauxRun’s Keyword Research Works
FauxRun provides a built-in keyword research tool that helps you:
- Identify important keywords in a job description
- Understand what these keywords mean
- Get suggestions for how to incorporate them into your profile
- Ensure your cover letter includes relevant terminology
Keyword Research Process
- Copy the job description you’re interested in
- Paste it into the Keyword Research tool
- FauxRun will identify and explain the key requirements
- Update your candidate profile to include these keywords naturally
- Generate your cover letter as normal
Best Practices
- Always use natural language – don’t just keyword stuff
- Focus on mandatory requirements first, then desired qualifications
- Look for both technical skills and soft skills
- Pay attention to specific terminology used in the job posting
- Update your profile to highlight how you match the keywords
Example
Job Description Keywords: “Agile”, “Sprint Planning”, “Jira”, “Cross-functional teams”
Updated Profile: Add these specific tools and methodologies to your experience section
Result: Your generated cover letter will naturally incorporate these keywords in context
Common Keywords by Role
Software Engineer: System design, microservices, API development, testing frameworks, CI/CD
Product Manager: Go-to-market strategy, user research, roadmap planning, cross-functional leadership
Data Analyst: SQL, data visualization, statistical analysis, business intelligence tools
Remember: Keywords should support your story, not replace it. Use them strategically to enhance your cover letter, not dominate it.