In today’s competitive job market, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline their hiring process. While these systems help recruiters sort through countless resumes, they can also make it challenging for job seekers to get noticed. Optimizing your resume for ATS is key to making sure your application reaches human eyes.
Here’s how to craft an ATS-friendly resume that stands out:
1. Use Simple, Clean Formatting
ATS systems can struggle with overly complex resume formats. Stick to a clean, professional design to ensure your resume is easily read by both the ATS and recruiters.
Do:
- Use standard section headings like “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.”
- Choose a straightforward font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Use bullet points for lists to keep things organized.
Avoid:
- Fancy graphics, tables, and columns that can confuse ATS software.
- Excessive use of colors or non-standard fonts.
2. Include Relevant Keywords
ATS software scans resumes for specific keywords that match the job description. To get past this filter, make sure your resume includes the right terms.
How to Find Keywords:
- Review the job posting carefully. Look for specific skills, qualifications, and responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
- Incorporate these keywords naturally into your resume, especially in the skills, work experience, and summary sections.
Example: If the job description emphasizes “project management” and “budget forecasting,” make sure these terms are present if relevant to your experience.
3. Focus on Action-Oriented Language
ATS systems look for measurable achievements and clear responsibilities. Use action verbs to start each bullet point in your work experience.
Examples of Action Verbs:
- Managed
- Implemented
- Developed
- Led
- Executed
Good Example: “Led a team of 5 developers to successfully implement a $500,000 software upgrade, improving efficiency by 20%.”
4. Avoid Images, Charts, and Fancy Fonts
While visuals and infographics can make your resume stand out to a human reader, ATS systems struggle to process them. Stick to text-based content.
Tip: Keep your resume simple by removing any images, icons, and charts. Focus on the content rather than design.
5. Use Standard Section Headings
ATS systems are programmed to scan for common section headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” Make sure you’re using these traditional headings, as ATS may not recognize creative alternatives like “Where I’ve Worked” or “Things I’m Good At.”
Suggested Headings:
- Summary or Objective
- Work Experience
- Education
- Skills
- Certifications
6. Submit the Right File Type
Most ATS systems can read .docx and PDF formats, but it’s always a good idea to check the job posting or company guidelines to confirm the preferred file format.
Tip: If the posting doesn’t specify a format, .docx is often the safest option for ATS compatibility.
7. Keep Your Resume Concise
While ATS systems do not have a word limit, keeping your resume concise makes it easier for recruiters to review it after it passes through the ATS. Aim for a 1-2 page resume, focusing on your most relevant experience.
Conclusion
Optimizing your resume for ATS is essential in today’s job market. By following these simple steps, you’ll increase the chances that your resume passes through the system and reaches the hands of a hiring manager. At ViaSkill, we understand the challenges of creating an ATS-friendly resume, and our platform is designed to help you showcase your skills and achievements while ensuring you get noticed by the right employers.