Getting your resume past an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can feel like a big hurdle. These systems scan resumes for keywords and qualifications before a human even sees your application. So, if your resume isn’t optimized for an ATS, it might not even make it to the hiring manager.
Here are 13 practical tips to help you get your resume through the ATS and onto the hiring manager’s desk.
1. Use Standard Job Titles and Keywords
ATS looks for specific keywords that match the job description.
- Tip: Use the same job titles and phrases as those mentioned in the job posting.
- Example: If the job title is “Marketing Manager” and the description mentions “Digital Marketing,” use these terms on your resume.
- Why: This increases the chances of the ATS finding a match between your resume and the job description.
2. Keep Formatting Simple
Fancy fonts, graphics, and complex layouts can confuse ATS systems.
- Tip: Stick to a basic format with standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Example: Use bullet points, clear section headers, and simple line breaks.
- Why: ATS struggles with headers, footers, tables, and images. Keeping it simple ensures that the system reads your resume correctly.
3. Highlight Relevant Skills
ATS systems scan for specific skills that are listed in the job description.
- Tip: Make sure your skills match the ones mentioned in the job posting.
- Example: If the job requires “Data Analysis” and “Excel,” include these keywords if they apply to you.
- Why: Including the right skills increases your chances of getting noticed by ATS.
4. Optimize for Job-Specific Keywords
Keywords related to the job title, industry, and role are essential.
- Tip: Look for critical keywords in the job posting, such as “team management,” “project planning,” or specific tools like “Google Analytics.”
- Example: If the posting requires proficiency in “Python” and “SQL,” use these terms if they reflect your skill set.
- Why: ATS scans for these keywords to determine your qualifications. The more relevant keywords you use, the higher your chances of getting past the system.
5. Choose the Right Resume Format
ATS prefers clear, organized resume formats.
- Tip: Use a chronological or hybrid (combination) resume format.
- Why: These formats are straightforward, helping the ATS easily parse your work experience and skills.
Avoid: Functional resumes. They hide work history and make it harder for ATS to read your qualifications.
6. Avoid Headers and Footers
ATS can’t always read information in headers or footers, so keep important details out of them.
- Tip: Put your name, contact info, and other essential details directly in the main body of your resume.
- Example: Place your phone number and email address in the top section, not in a header or footer.
- Why: This ensures the ATS doesn’t miss any crucial details about you.
7. Spell Out Acronyms
ATS systems may not always recognize abbreviations or acronyms.
- Tip: Spell out any acronyms on your resume, and include the shortened version in parentheses.
- Example: If you have a “Certified Public Accountant” qualification, list it as “Certified Public Accountant (CPA).”
- Why: This ensures that both the acronym and full form are recognized by the ATS.
8. Use .docx or PDF Format
Ensure your resume is in the right file format for ATS systems.
- Tip: Submit your resume in .docx (Microsoft Word) or PDF format.
- Why: These formats are ATS-friendly. However, some older ATS systems may struggle with PDF files, so check if there are format preferences in the job description.
9. Focus on Achievements, Not Just Job Descriptions
ATS systems want to see results, not just responsibilities.
- Tip: Highlight measurable achievements, not just tasks.
- Example: Instead of saying “Managed a sales team,” write “Managed a team of 10, increasing sales by 20% in six months.”
- Why: Quantifiable results make your resume stand out to ATS (and hiring managers).
10. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job
Don’t use the same generic resume for every application. Tailor your resume to each job posting.
- Tip: Customize your resume to reflect the specific job description and requirements.
- Why: Tailoring your resume increases the chances of matching the keywords and skills the ATS is searching for.
Quick Tip: Keep a basic resume template for each role and tweak it for every application.
11. Include Standard Sections
ATS systems expect certain resume sections to be included.
- Tip: Make sure your resume has these essential sections:
- Contact Information: Name, phone number, email address.
- Professional Summary: A brief introduction to your qualifications.
- Skills: Highlight relevant technical and soft skills.
- Work Experience: A detailed list of relevant past jobs.
- Education: Include degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework.
- Why: ATS will look for these sections to categorize your resume and evaluate your fit for the role.
12. Highlight Certifications and Education
Many job postings require specific certifications or degrees.
- Tip: List any relevant certifications or educational qualifications clearly.
- Example: If the job requires a “Project Management Professional (PMP)” certification, make sure it’s listed prominently.
- Why: Certifications and degrees are important to ATS and should be easy for the system to find.
13. Test Your Resume with ATS Tools
Before submitting your resume, use online tools to test how well it performs with an ATS.
- Tip: Try tools like Jobscan to check your resume against the job description.
- Why: This will give you a better idea of how your resume will be ranked by ATS and allow you to make adjustments if necessary.
Final Thoughts
The key to beating an ATS is to customize your resume, simplify the formatting, and ensure that you’re using the right keywords and sections.
By following these 13 tips, you can make sure your resume gets through the ATS and lands in the hands of the hiring manager. Don’t underestimate the power of ATS optimization—these small adjustments can make a big difference in your job search!
Good luck!
