The essential CV keywords to pass ATS in 2025
ATS systems analyse your CV in a matter of seconds. Without the right keywords, even an excellent profile can be rejected. Discover the essential terms to include in order to pass automated filters in 2025.
How ATS analyse keywords
ATS do not 'read' your CV as a human would. They extract and compare specific terms against those in the job advertisement. The higher the match, the better your score.
Keywords can be technical skills (Python, SAP), soft skills (leadership), certifications (PMP, CFA) or job titles (Project Manager, Business Analyst).
Most sought-after technical keywords
In 2025, certain technical skills are particularly in demand on the Swiss market, across all sectors.
- Data & AI: Python, SQL, Machine Learning, Power BI, Tableau
- IT: Cloud (AWS, Azure, GCP), DevOps, Kubernetes, Cybersecurity
- Finance: SAP, Bloomberg, Risk Management, Compliance, IFRS
- Management: Agile, Scrum, Lean, Change Management, KPI
- Digital: CRM, Marketing Automation, SEO/SEA, UX/UI
Soft skills valued in Switzerland
Beyond technical skills, Swiss recruiters look for specific soft skills. Incorporate them naturally into your experience descriptions.
- Intercultural communication (Swiss multilingual context)
- Autonomy and sense of responsibility
- Team spirit and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Rigour and precision (highly valued in Switzerland)
Where to place keywords?
ATS assign greater weight to keywords located in certain areas: the CV title, professional summary, section headings, and the first lines of each experience entry.
Avoid 'keyword stuffing' (the artificial accumulation of keywords). The ATS may detect it, and above all, a human will read your CV after the filtering stage.
Repeat important keywords 2–3 times throughout your CV, but in a natural and contextual manner.
Tailoring your keywords to each application
Each job advertisement has its own set of keywords. Analyse the posting carefully and identify recurring or highlighted terms.
Create a base version of your CV, then customise the keywords for each application. It is time-consuming, but effective.
Tools for identifying keywords
There are several approaches to identifying the right keywords: analysing multiple similar job postings, studying the LinkedIn profiles of people currently in the role, and using ATS analysis tools.
Our CV analysis tool automatically compares your CV against market standards and identifies missing keywords.
Conclusion
Keywords are the key to passing ATS filters. Analyse each job posting, incorporate relevant terms naturally, and test your CV with our free tool before applying.
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