5 Ways to Build an ATS-Unstoppable Resume in 2024

How can I make my resume ATS-friendly?

To make your resume ATS-friendly, consider the following tips:

• Use keywords: Identify relevant keywords from the job description and incorporate them throughout your resume, especially in the job title, summary, and skills section.
• Use a clean and consistent format: Stick to a standard resume format, such as reverse-chronological or functional, and use consistent fonts, headings, and spacing throughout.
• Quantify your accomplishments: Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate your impact and achievements in previous roles.
• Avoid using personal pronouns: Use action verbs and specific examples to describe your experiences and skills, rather than using first-person pronouns such as “I” or “me.”
• Use a professional email address: Create a professional email address specifically for job applications, such as yourname@professionaldomain.com.
• Proofread carefully: Mistakes, such as typos or grammatical errors, can negatively impact your resume’s chances of passing through ATS systems.

What is the best layout for a resume?

The best layout for a resume depends on your experience and the industry you’re applying to. However, a common and effective layout is the reverse-chronological format, where your most recent job experience is listed first.

• Reverse-chronological format: This format highlights your most recent and relevant experience, making it suitable for candidates with a consistent work history and clear career progression.
• Functional format: This format emphasizes your skills and abilities rather than your work history, making it suitable for candidates with gaps in employment or those seeking to transition into a new field.
• Combination format: This format combines elements of both the reverse-chronological and functional formats, providing a balance between your work history and skills.

What sections should I include in my resume?

Essential sections to include in your resume are:

• Contact information: Include your name, professional email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile link.
• Summary or objective: Briefly introduce yourself, highlight your key skills and experience, and state your career goals.
• Experience: List your relevant work history in reverse chronological order, including the company name, job title, location, and dates of employment. Quantify your accomplishments and use action verbs to describe your responsibilities.
• Skills: Create a list of your hard and soft skills, which should align with the job description and industry requirements.
• Education: List your educational qualifications, including the degree, institution, location, and graduation date.
• Certifications: Include any relevant certifications or licenses that enhance your professional credibility.

Optional sections to include, depending on your experience and industry, are:

• Awards and recognition: List any awards, honors, or recognition you have received.
• Languages: If you are proficient in multiple languages, list them along with your level of proficiency.
• Accomplishments: Highlight any significant accomplishments or projects that showcase your skills and abilities.
• Extracurricular activities: If relevant to the job, include any significant extracurricular activities or volunteer experience that demonstrates your transferable skills.
• References: You can include a statement that references are available upon request or provide a separate reference page.

How do I quantify my accomplishments?

To quantify your accomplishments effectively:

• Use numbers: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, instead of saying “Increased sales,” you could say “Increased sales by 15%.”
• Use specific metrics: Be specific about the metrics you use to measure your accomplishments. For example, instead of saying “Improved customer satisfaction,” you could say “Improved customer satisfaction by 20%, as measured by customer surveys.”
• Highlight results: Focus on the results of your efforts rather than the tasks themselves. For example, instead of saying “Managed a team of 10 people,” you could say “Managed a team of 10 people, resulting in a 25% increase in productivity.”

Here are some examples of quantified accomplishments:

• Increased sales by 15% through targeted marketing campaigns.
• Reduced operating costs by 10% through process optimization.
• Developed and implemented a new training program that resulted in a 20% increase in employee productivity.
• Managed a team of 10 people and consistently exceeded performance goals by 15%.
• Launched a new product that generated over $1 million in revenue within the first year.

What are the biggest resume mistakes to avoid?

Some common resume mistakes to avoid include:

• Typos and grammatical errors: Proofread your resume carefully to eliminate any errors in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
• Inconsistent formatting: Use a consistent font, font size, and formatting throughout your resume to maintain a professional appearance.
• Lack of focus: Tailor your resume to each job you apply for, highlighting the skills and experience that are most relevant to the role.
• Too much personal information: Include only relevant personal information, such as your contact details, education, and work experience. Avoid including sensitive information, such as your Social Security number or date of birth.
• Exaggerating or fabricating information: Be honest and accurate in your resume. Any false or misleading information can damage your credibility and chances of getting hired.
• Using outdated or unprofessional language: Use modern and professional language throughout your resume. Avoid using slang, jargon, or overly technical terms that may not be familiar to recruiters.
• Including irrelevant information: Keep your resume concise and focused on the most relevant information. Avoid including unnecessary details or personal information that is not essential to the job application.

What is the best font for a resume?

The best font for a resume is a matter of personal preference, but there are some fonts that are generally considered to be more professional and appropriate for a resume. These fonts include:

• Times New Roman
• Arial
• Calibri
• Georgia
• Verdana

These fonts are easy to read, professional, and widely recognized. They also work well with ATS systems, ensuring that your resume is properly scanned and processed.
It is best to use a consistent font throughout your resume, both for headings and body text. Avoid using too many different fonts, as it can make your resume look cluttered and unprofessional.