ATS Keywords for Administrative Resume | Administrative Resume Buzzwords
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In a competitive job market, optimizing your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is crucial for administrative roles, where skills in organization, communication, and multitasking are highly valued.

ATS software filters resumes based on specific keywords relevant to job descriptions. By incorporating keywords that highlight core administrative skills—such as scheduling, data entry, and office management—administrative professionals can increase their resume’s ATS visibility and attract the attention of hiring managers.

Importance of Listing ATS Keywords in an Administrative Resume

Including relevant ATS keywords can improve your resume’s performance by:

  • Emphasizing key administrative skills valued by employers.
  • Demonstrating competencies in managing office functions, communication, and organizational support.
  • Including technical skills and software proficiency, such as in Microsoft Office and CRM tools, which are essential in administrative roles.

Top Keywords for Administrative Resumes

Administrative professionals should include keywords that highlight essential skills and responsibilities, such as:

  • Office Administration
  • Calendar Management
  • Scheduling and Coordination
  • Data Entry
  • Customer Service
  • Document Preparation
  • Filing and Recordkeeping
  • Expense Reporting
  • Travel Arrangements
  • Event Planning

These keywords reflect the foundational skills valued in administrative roles across various industries.

ATS Keywords for Entry-Level Administrative Resume

For entry-level administrative positions, focus on foundational skills and general office support capabilities:

  • Front Desk Reception
  • Answering Phones
  • Basic Data Entry
  • Filing and Document Management
  • Customer Service Skills
  • Office Supply Management
  • Communication Skills
  • Appointment Scheduling
  • Meeting Coordination
  • Multi-line Phone System

These keywords highlight entry-level competencies ideal for recent graduates or those new to administrative roles.

ATS Keywords for Executive Assistant Resume

For executive assistant roles, include keywords related to high-level support, confidentiality, and organizational management:

  • Executive Support
  • Confidentiality and Discretion
  • Calendar Management
  • Meeting Coordination
  • Travel Logistics
  • Email Management
  • Board Meeting Preparation
  • Presentation Preparation
  • Expense Reconciliation
  • Project Support

These keywords emphasize the advanced support and organizational skills needed to assist executives effectively.

ATS Keywords for Office Manager Resume

Office managers should include keywords focused on office operations, team coordination, and administrative leadership:

  • Office Operations
  • Team Coordination
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Vendor Management
  • Facility Management
  • Budget Tracking
  • Inventory Control
  • HR Support
  • Office Budgeting
  • Process Improvement

These terms reflect the broad skill set required to manage office environments efficiently.

ATS Keywords for HR Administrative Assistant Resume

HR administrative assistants should incorporate keywords that reflect support for HR functions, employee communication, and recordkeeping:

  • Employee Onboarding
  • HR Documentation
  • Record Maintenance
  • Payroll Support
  • Employee File Management
  • Confidentiality
  • Scheduling Interviews
  • Benefits Administration
  • Employee Communication
  • Data Entry for HR Systems

These keywords demonstrate skills essential for administrative support within an HR setting.

ATS Keywords for Customer Service Administrative Resume

For customer service-focused administrative roles, it’s helpful to include keywords that emphasize customer interaction and service support:

  • Customer Support
  • Order Processing
  • Client Communication
  • CRM (Customer Relationship Management)
  • Problem Resolution
  • Appointment Scheduling
  • Customer Database Management
  • Feedback Collection
  • Front Desk Support
  • Email Correspondence

These keywords underscore the customer service skills needed for roles that involve direct client interactions.

Tips for Listing ATS Keywords on an Administrative Resume

  • Match Job Description Terms: Use keywords directly from the job description to align with ATS filters.
  • Integrate Keywords Seamlessly: Incorporate keywords naturally within descriptions to avoid keyword stuffing.
  • Highlight Software Proficiency: List tools such as Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Google Workspace, QuickBooks, Salesforce, or SAP as part of your technical skills.
  • Quantify Achievements: Where possible, include metrics like “reduced office supply costs by 15%” or “coordinated schedules for 100+ team members.”
  • Emphasize Relevant Certifications: Mention certifications such as Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) or Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) for added credibility.

This approach ensures an ATS-optimized resume that emphasizes the key administrative skills essential for success across various administrative roles.

Madison Norton

Written By

Madison Norton

VP Marketing & Resume Expert

Madison is the VP Marketing and General Manager at VisualCV. He's a seasoned marketing leader, resume writing and career marketing expert and now helping people grow their own career marketing strategies to build a career they love.

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