Understanding How ATS Handles your Resume

Let’s start by understanding applicant tracking systems. ATS are one of the most important parts of your job search and understanding them can lead to more interview invites!

What is ATS?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) reads your resume and breaks it down into different sections like skills, work history, and education. It uses section keywords to understand where to place the data, ensuring it fits into the right categories for easy evaluation by recruiters.

Why Do Employers Use ATS?

Employers use ATS to streamline the hiring process, especially when dealing with high volumes of candidates (hundreds or even thousands). ATS helps filter out unqualified applicants, saves time by automatically organizing resumes, and ensures consistency in the evaluation process. Some ATS will also automatically score or rank candidates based on the keywords used in their resumes.

How to Avoid ATS Parsing Issues

ATS may have parsing issues due to factors like incorrect formatting, images, unusual content, or non-standard headings, which can prevent important information from being read accurately.

Ready to beat the ATS and get your resume noticed? Follow these easy tips to make sure your resume stands out, passes ATS checks, and lands you more interviews!

Top 10 Tips for Making Your Resume ATS-Friendly

Tip 1: Use the Right Keywords

ATS software is designed to scan for specific keywords that match the job description. To make your resume ATS-friendly, include the keywords used in the job posting, especially in the skills and experience sections. This makes it more likely that the ATS will identify you as a good match for the position.

Looking to improve your keywords? MyJobFlow can help you quickly and effectively build resumes and cover letters which are custom matched to each job posting. This makes applying to roles fast and easy!

Tip 2: Customize Your Resume for Each Job

ATS systems are configured to match resumes with specific job postings. Customize your resume to include keywords and phrases from each job description to increase the chance of passing the ATS filter. Tailoring your resume for each application demonstrates that you are a good match for the specific role.

Need help matching your resume to specific job postings? Check out MyJobFlow for AI-powered assistance in customizing your resume. It’s a fast and easy way to improve your interview invites.

Tip 3: Use Standard Section Headings

ATS software looks for standard headings to understand the structure of your resume. Stick with headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” Avoid creative titles like “My Career Journey” or “Where I’ve Learned.” Why? Standard headings make it easier for ATS to categorize your information correctly.

Tip 4: Use Reverse Chronological Order

ATS often prioritize the latest experience. Using reverse chronological order for your work history allows the ATS to understand your career progression clearly. Start with your most recent job and work backward, ensuring that your latest and most relevant experiences are highlighted. 

Tip 5: Avoid Graphics and Unusual Formatting

While graphics, images, or icons might make your resume visually appealing to human readers, ATS systems may not be able to interpret them correctly. Text-based content ensures consistency in data extraction, making it easier for ATS to accurately read and categorize your information. Stick to text-based content, as anything that cannot be read by the ATS may get lost. This means avoiding charts, text boxes, and other visual elements that could confuse the system.

Tip 6: Use Simple Fonts and Formatting

To ensure your resume is readable by ATS, use simple fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid headers or footers, and keep formatting consistent with bullet points and straightforward alignment. This helps the ATS parse your information without errors.

Tip 7: Optimize File Type

Submit your resume as a .docx file or a PDF if the job posting allows it. Some ATS struggle with PDFs, while others prefer them. Always check the job application instructions for guidance. When in doubt, .docx is usually a safer choice. 

Tip 8: Include Contact Information Clearly

Ensure your contact information is easy to find and formatted properly. The ATS needs to capture these details correctly for further communication. Place your name, phone number, and email at the top of the page, and avoid placing this information in headers or footers. 

Tip 9: Use Measurable Achievements

Including measurable achievements in your resume can help ATS recognize your impact. Use numbers to demonstrate your accomplishments, such as “Increased sales by 30%” or “Managed a team of 10 employees.” Quantifiable results make your resume stand out to both ATS and hiring managers. 

Tip 10: Proofread for Grammar and Spelling

ATS systems can sometimes flag resumes with grammar or spelling errors, which can negatively affect your chances. Proofread your resume thoroughly to ensure there are no mistakes. Consider using tools like Grammarly or asking a friend to review it for you. A polished resume not only helps with ATS but also creates a good impression on hiring managers.

Need support with writing cover letters? Let MyJobFlow help you by generating professional cover letters that align perfectly with the job description. It’s fast, simple, and impresses recruiters!

Real-World ATS Specifics

Understanding specific ATS systems can help you tailor your resume more effectively. Different ATS platforms have unique features and preferences, so knowing what they look for can give you an edge in the application process.

For more information about ATS software and their features, check out our ATS Overview Guide.

• Taleo: Taleo is one of the most popular ATS solutions, used by many Fortune 500 companies. It favors resumes with clear formatting, standard fonts, and a strong use of relevant keywords. Avoid complex formatting to ensure your resume gets through.
• Workday: Workday tends to prioritize keyword matching and custom-tailored resumes, so using terms directly from the job description is key. Focus on including role-specific keywords to improve your chances.
• Greenhouse: This ATS emphasizes candidate experience and skills. Using concise bullet points and including measurable achievements will help boost your ranking. Greenhouse also prefers resumes that clearly show career progression and relevant skills.
  

Conclusion: Your ATS-Friendly Resume

Following these steps will greatly increase the chances of your resume passing ATS checks and reaching a hiring manager’s desk. For additional resources and tips, visit our Job Search Resources Page.

By understanding how ATS systems work and tailoring your resume accordingly, you make yourself a more attractive candidate right from the start. Start optimizing today, and you’ll see better results in your job search efforts!

Remember, the key to an ATS-friendly resume is simplicity, relevance, and customization. By making your resume easy for ATS to parse and ensuring it aligns with the job description, you’ll maximize your opportunities to get noticed by recruiters and land interviews.