FREE10 Essential ATS-Friendly Resume Tips That Actually Work
What is an ATS?
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software applications used by employers to manage and filter job applications. These systems scan resumes for keywords, qualifications, and formatting before they ever reach human eyes. Understanding how to optimize your resume for ATS is crucial in today's job market.
1. Use Standard Section Headings
ATS systems look for standard section headings like "Work Experience," "Education," "Skills," and "Summary." Avoid creative headings like "Where I've Been" or "What I Know"—these can confuse the system.
2. Include Relevant Keywords
Carefully review the job description and incorporate relevant keywords naturally throughout your resume. Include industry-specific terms, technical skills, and job-related phrases. However, avoid keyword stuffing—keywords should fit naturally into your content.
3. Use Simple, Clean Formatting
Complex formatting can confuse ATS systems. Avoid:
- Tables, columns, or text boxes
- Headers and footers
- Images, graphics, or logos
- Unusual fonts or special characters
4. Save as PDF or Word Document
Most ATS systems can read both PDF and Word documents. However, if the job posting specifies a format, follow those instructions. PDFs are generally preferred as they maintain formatting across different systems.
5. Use Standard File Naming Conventions
Name your resume file clearly and professionally. Use a format like "FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf" or "FirstName_LastName_JobTitle_Resume.pdf". Avoid special characters or spaces.
6. Include Both Acronyms and Full Terms
If you're using acronyms (like SEO, CRM, or API), include both the acronym and the full term at least once. For example: "Search Engine Optimization (SEO)" or "Customer Relationship Management (CRM)." This ensures the ATS recognizes both variations.
7. Use Standard Date Formats
Use consistent date formats throughout your resume. The format "Month Year" (e.g., "January 2020" or "Jan 2020") is widely recognized by ATS systems. Avoid using only numbers or unusual formats.
8. Avoid Headers and Footers
Information placed in headers and footers may not be parsed correctly by ATS systems. Keep all important information in the main body of your resume.
9. Use Standard Bullet Points
Use simple bullet points (•) rather than special symbols or characters. Standard bullet points are more likely to be correctly parsed by ATS systems.
10. Test Your Resume
Before submitting, test your resume by copying and pasting it into a plain text editor. This will show you how an ATS might see your resume. If the formatting looks wrong or information is missing, adjust your resume accordingly.
Conclusion
Optimizing your resume for ATS systems doesn't mean sacrificing readability for humans. A well-optimized resume should work for both. By following these tips, you'll increase your chances of passing through ATS filters and reaching hiring managers.