ATS Resume Tips: How to Create an ATS-Friendly Resume That Passes Every Time
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As the job market becomes more competitive, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have become a crucial part of the hiring process. These systems help recruiters and hiring managers filter out unqualified resumes by scanning and analyzing them for specific keywords, formatting, and content. To make sure your resume gets noticed, it’s essential to create an ATS-friendly resume.
In this guide, we’ll dive into effective strategies, best practices, and common mistakes to avoid, ensuring your resume passes ATS screenings every time.
What Is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?
Before crafting your ATS-friendly resume, it’s important to understand what an Applicant Tracking System is and how it works.
An ATS is software used by companies to streamline the hiring process. It scans resumes for key information such as job titles, skills, and qualifications, comparing them to job descriptions. If your resume doesn't meet the criteria set by the ATS, it might never be seen by a human recruiter.
Example: Imagine you're applying for a marketing role, and the job description mentions "SEO strategies" and "content marketing" as key skills. If your resume doesn't include these terms, it’s less likely to make it past the ATS, even if you have those skills.
Why Is an ATS-Friendly Resume Important?
Statistics show that over 75% of resumes are never seen by a human recruiter because they are filtered out by ATS. Therefore, ensuring your resume is optimized for these systems greatly increases your chances of landing an interview.
How to Write an ATS-Friendly Resume
1. Use a Simple and Clean Format
ATS software struggles to interpret resumes with complex formats, graphics, and unusual fonts. A clean, well-organized resume ensures the system can read it without issues.
Avoid using graphics, images, or logos (e.g., headshots or design elements). These elements confuse ATS software.
Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri.
Use bold and italics sparingly. Overuse of these can cause errors in ATS parsing.
Example: If you're a graphic designer, you might want to showcase your creativity through design-heavy resumes. Instead, create a separate portfolio and keep your resume simple for ATS purposes.
2. Use Relevant Keywords from the Job Description
ATS scans for specific keywords that match the job description. Tailoring your resume for each job is critical to making it past this first screening stage.
Extract keywords from the job description (e.g., skills, certifications, job titles).
Match your resume wording to the exact terms used in the posting. For example, if the job description mentions “Project Management,” use this term instead of “Managed Projects.”
Example: For a software development role, if the job description lists "Python, Java, and cloud computing" as required skills, ensure these keywords appear in your resume in the relevant sections like skills or work experience.
3. Prioritize Hard Skills over Soft Skills
While both hard and soft skills are important, ATS software typically places more weight on hard skills (e.g., programming languages, certifications) than on soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork).
List technical qualifications, certifications, and job-specific skills first.
Include both common skills (like “Microsoft Office”) and more specialized ones that are relevant to the job.
Example: For an accountant role, mention skills like "QuickBooks," "financial analysis," and "GAAP," rather than just focusing on generic attributes like “organized” or “hardworking.”
4. Optimize the Header with Essential Information
Your resume header should include your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). Avoid adding anything else to this section, as ATS systems can misread extra data.
Don’t include your home address, as it’s no longer necessary.
Avoid headers or footers, as many ATS systems struggle to read them.
Example: Correct format: John Doejohn.doe@email.com | 123-456-7890 | linkedin.com/in/johndoe
5. Use Standard Section Headings
ATS systems rely on recognizing common section headings to categorize your information. Using non-standard headings can confuse the system, causing it to skip important sections of your resume.
Use standard headings like Work Experience, Education, Skills, and Certifications.
Avoid creative alternatives like “My Journey” or “Life as a Developer.”
Example: If your resume’s skills section is titled “Areas of Expertise,” the ATS might not recognize it. Stick to “Skills” for best results.
6. Avoid Tables and Columns
Tables and columns might make your resume look organized to humans, but ATS often cannot process them properly. This can lead to important information being left out or misinterpreted.
Instead of using tables, use bullet points and line breaks to separate information.
Keep your resume layout as single-column as possible.
Example: If you’re listing your skills, avoid formatting them in a table. Instead, list them vertically:
Correct format:
JavaScript
SQL
HTML5
Incorrect format:| JavaScript | SQL | HTML5 |
7. Focus on Job-Specific Accomplishments, Not Just Duties
ATS not only scans for skills but also for quantifiable results. Highlighting specific accomplishments makes your resume stand out to both ATS and hiring managers.
Use bullet points to showcase your achievements rather than just listing duties.
Include numbers, percentages, and metrics to give context to your accomplishments.
Example: Instead of writing, "Managed marketing campaigns," write, "Led marketing campaigns that increased web traffic by 30% over six months."
Common Mistakes That Can Cause Your Resume to Fail the ATS Test
1. Using Infographics or Non-Text Elements
While visually appealing resumes may work for some creative roles, they often fail to pass through ATS software. Infographics, charts, or any graphical elements should be avoided.
2. Overloading Your Resume with Keywords
ATS software looks for relevant keywords, but stuffing your resume with too many can backfire. Your resume should remain natural and readable, as it will still be seen by a human recruiter after passing through the ATS.
3. Skipping a Tailored Approach
Sending out the same generic resume for every job application will lower your chances of passing ATS screenings. Take the time to customize your resume for each job, incorporating the specific keywords and skills required.
Tools to Test Your ATS-Friendly Resume
There are various online tools that help you optimize your resume for ATS before submitting it. These tools scan your resume and compare it to the job description, identifying any areas that need improvement.
Jobscan: A popular tool that analyzes how well your resume matches the job description.
Resumeworded: This tool provides insights into both ATS optimization and overall resume effectiveness.
Final Thoughts
Crafting an ATS-friendly resume is an essential skill in today’s competitive job market. By using simple formatting, incorporating the right keywords, and focusing on specific accomplishments, you can ensure your resume passes ATS systems and gets seen by human recruiters. Remember, the goal is not only to pass the ATS but also to create a resume that resonates with the person reviewing it on the other side.
By following these strategies and regularly tailoring your resume, you’re one step closer to landing that coveted job interview.