5 Ways to Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly in 2024

What is ATS and how does it work?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by recruiters and hiring managers to screen and filter job applications. ATSs use algorithms to scan resumes for specific keywords, phrases, and formatting elements that match the job description. Resumes that meet the criteria are then ranked and presented to the hiring manager for further review.

• ATSs use a variety of techniques to parse and analyze resumes, including:
• Keyword matching: ATSs look for specific keywords and phrases that are relevant to the job description.
• Pattern matching: ATSs identify patterns in the resume’s formatting, such as the use of headers, bullet points, and white space.
• Natural language processing (NLP): ATSs use NLP to understand the meaning of the text on the resume and identify relevant skills and experience.

How can I test my resume for ATS compatibility?

There are a few ways to test your resume for ATS compatibility:

• Use an ATS compatibility checker: There are a number of free and paid online tools that can scan your resume for ATS compatibility. These tools will typically provide a report that identifies any areas of your resume that need improvement.
• Ask a recruiter to review your resume: Recruiters are familiar with ATSs and can provide feedback on how to make your resume more ATS-friendly.
• Submit your resume to a job posting and see if it gets noticed: If your resume is not getting any traction, it may be because it is not ATS-friendly.

What are the most common ATS red flags?

Some of the most common ATS red flags include:

• Using too much formatting: ATSs can have difficulty parsing resumes that are heavily formatted with tables, graphs, and images.
• Using uncommon fonts or font sizes: ATSs may not be able to read fonts that are too stylized or too small.
• Using too much jargon: ATSs may not be able to understand acronyms or technical terms that are not commonly used.
• Including irrelevant information: ATSs are only interested in information that is relevant to the job description. Including irrelevant information will only make your resume harder to read.

How can I improve my resume’s readability for ATS?

Here are a few tips for improving the readability of your resume for ATSs:

• Use a simple, easy-to-read font: ATSs prefer fonts that are clear and easy to read, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri.
• Use a consistent font size: ATSs prefer resumes that use a consistent font size throughout.
• Use white space effectively: ATSs can have difficulty parsing resumes that are cluttered with text. Use white space to break up your resume into sections and make it easier to read.
• Use headings and subheadings: Headings and subheadings can help ATSs to identify the different sections of your resume.

What are the best resume formats for ATS?

The best resume formats for ATSs are:

• Reverse-chronological resume: This format lists your work experience in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent job.
• Functional resume: This format focuses on your skills and experience, rather than your work history.
• Combination resume: This format combines elements of both the reverse-chronological and functional resume formats.

Do I need to use specific fonts or font sizes for ATS?

Yes, it is important to use specific fonts and font sizes for ATS. ATSs prefer fonts that are clear and easy to read, such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri. The font size should be between 10 and 12 points.

What are the best ways to incorporate ATS-friendly keywords?

The best ways to incorporate ATS-friendly keywords into your resume are:

• Use keywords from the job description: When you are writing your resume, be sure to include the keywords that are listed in the job description.
• Use industry-specific keywords: In addition to using keywords from the job description, you should also use industry-specific keywords. These are keywords that are commonly used in your industry and that describe your skills and experience.
• Use keywords naturally: Don’t just stuff your resume with keywords. Instead, use them naturally throughout your resume.

How can I optimize my resume sections for ATS?

Here are a few tips for optimizing your resume sections for ATSs:

• Use a clear and concise writing style: ATSs prefer resumes that are written in a clear and concise style. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that ATSs may not be able to understand.
• Use action verbs: ATSs prefer resumes that use action verbs. Action verbs describe what you have done in your previous jobs.
• Quantify your accomplishments: Whenever possible, quantify your accomplishments. This will help ATSs to understand the impact of your work.
• Use the STAR method: The STAR method is a great way to write about your accomplishments. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result.

What should I avoid including on my resume for ATS?

Here are a few things that you should avoid including on your resume for ATSs:

• Personal information: ATSs are only interested in information that is relevant to the job description. Avoid including personal information, such as your address, phone number, or email address.
• Irrelevant information: ATSs are only interested in information that is relevant to the job description. Avoid including irrelevant information, such as your hobbies or interests.
• Images: ATSs can have difficulty parsing images. Avoid including images on your resume.
• Tables: ATSs can have difficulty parsing tables. Avoid using tables on your resume.
• Graphs: ATSs can have difficulty parsing graphs. Avoid using graphs on your resume.

Does the order of my resume sections matter for ATS?

Yes, the order of your resume sections does matter for ATSs. ATSs typically scan resumes from top to bottom. Therefore, the most important information should be placed at the top of your resume.