Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline the hiring process in today's competitive job market. ATS software scans resumes for keywords, formats, and relevant qualifications before they reach human recruiters. If your resume isn’t optimized for ATS, it may never be seen by a hiring manager. Here’s how to ensure your resume gets through the system and increases your chances of landing an interview.
1. Use an ATS-Friendly Format
ATS software struggles with complex layouts, graphics, and unconventional fonts. Stick to a simple, clean format with:
Standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri
Clearly defined sections with headings (e.g., Work Experience, Education, Skills)
A Word document or PDF format (check the job posting for preferences)
2. Incorporate Relevant Keywords
ATS scans for specific keywords that match the job description. To optimize your resume:
Review the job posting and note important skills, qualifications, and industry terms
Naturally integrate these keywords into your resume, especially in the Skills and Work Experience sections
Use both acronyms and full terms (e.g., “Search Engine Optimization (SEO)”)
3. Structure Your Resume with Clear Headings
ATS relies on recognizable section headings to categorize information. Use standard section titles like:
Work Experience
Education
Skills
Certifications
Avoid creative headings like “My Career Journey” or “What I Bring to the Table” as ATS may not recognize them.
4. Avoid Graphics, Tables, and Columns
Many ATS programs struggle with complex formatting.
Avoid:
Graphics and images
Tables and columns
Unusual bullet points (use simple dots or dashes)
5. Use a Chronological or Hybrid Format
ATS prefers a reverse-chronological format (listing recent jobs first). A hybrid format, which combines a summary of skills with work experience, is also ATS-friendly.
6. Optimize Job Titles and Dates
Use standard job titles (e.g., “Marketing Analyst” instead of “Marketing Guru”)
Include employment dates in Month/Year format (e.g., “Jan 2021 – Dec 2023”)
7. Spell Out Important Details
Some ATS may not recognize abbreviations. If space allows, write both versions:
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Computer Science
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Optimizing your resume for ATS can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed. By using the right keywords, format, and structure, you can ensure your resume gets past the system and into the hands of a recruiter. Take time to review job descriptions, refine your resume, and tailor it for each application.
Want to test your resume? Wright's Resumes and Connections is here to guide you every step of the way.
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