Creating an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) friendly resume is crucial in today’s job market, as many employers use these systems to streamline the hiring process. Here are some tips to ensure your resume gets past ATS and into the hands of a human recruiter:
1. Use a Simple Format:
- Stick to a clean and simple design.
- Avoid using images, charts, or graphics that may confuse the ATS.
2. Choose the Right File Format:
- Save your resume in a widely accepted format like .docx or .pdf.
- Some ATS may struggle with less common formats.
3. Use Standard Fonts:
- Stick to common, ATS-friendly fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Avoid overly stylized or script fonts.
4. Optimize Your Resume Headings:
- Use standard headings such as “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.”
- Avoid creative titles that might confuse the ATS.
5. Incorporate Relevant Keywords:
- Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description.
- Use industry-specific terminology.
6. Keep the Layout Consistent:
- Maintain a consistent format throughout your resume.
- Ensure dates, job titles, and company names are presented in the same way.
7. Include a Skills Section:
- Create a dedicated section listing your key skills.
- Use a mix of hard and soft skills relevant to the job.
8. Use Standard Section Headings:
- Stick to conventional headings for each section.
- For example, use “Work Experience” instead of “Professional Accomplishments.”
9. Quantify Achievements:
- Where possible, quantify your achievements with numbers and percentages.
- ATS may recognize numerical data more easily.
10. Avoid Graphics and Symbols:
- ATS may not interpret symbols, graphics, or special characters correctly.
- Stick to plain text for bullet points and other formatting.
11. Check for Spelling and Grammar:
- Ensure your resume is free from spelling and grammar errors.
- Use standard language to enhance ATS readability.
12. Include a Text-Based Contact Information Section:
- Include a simple text-based contact information section at the top.
- ATS may struggle with complex contact formats.
13. Customize Your Resume for Each Job:
- Tailor your resume for each application by incorporating specific keywords.
- Highlight experiences and skills most relevant to the job.
14. Use a Reverse-Chronological Order:
- List your work experience and education in reverse-chronological order.
- ATS systems are often designed to read resumes in this format.
15. Test Your Resume:
- Use ATS-friendly online tools to test your resume.
- Check the readability and compatibility of your document.
By following these tips, you increase the chances of your resume successfully passing through ATS and reaching the hands of a human recruiter. Always remember to balance ATS optimization with creating a compelling and well-written document that showcases your qualifications and experiences.
We hope that you have great success as you send out your resumes. For more career advice related content, read more of our blogs or visit our Facebook & Instagram.