7 Sneaky Ways to Get Past Applicant Tracking Systems in 2024

1. Understand How ATS Works and Tailor Your Resume Accordingly

The first step to beating ATS is to understand how they work. ATS use a variety of algorithms to scan resumes for specific keywords and phrases. These algorithms are designed to identify resumes that are relevant to the job posting.

To tailor your resume for ATS, you need to make sure that it contains the keywords and phrases that the ATS is looking for. You can find these keywords by reading the job posting carefully and identifying the skills and experience that are required.

Once you have identified the keywords, you need to incorporate them into your resume in a natural way. Don’t simply stuff your resume with keywords, as this will make it look unnatural and may actually hurt your chances of getting an interview.

2. Use the Right Keywords and Phrases

As we mentioned in the previous section, using the right keywords and phrases is essential for getting past ATS. But what are the right keywords and phrases?

The best keywords and phrases to use are those that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. You can find these keywords by reading the job posting carefully and identifying the skills and experience that are required.

Once you have identified the keywords, you need to incorporate them into your resume in a natural way. Don’t simply stuff your resume with keywords, as this will make it look unnatural and may actually hurt your chances of getting an interview.

3. Structure Your Resume for ATS Compatibility

In addition to using the right keywords and phrases, you also need to structure your resume in a way that is compatible with ATS. ATS are designed to scan resumes for specific sections, such as the header, contact information, summary, skills, experience, and education.

To make your resume ATS-friendly, you should use a clear and concise layout. Use headings and subheadings to organize your information, and make sure that your contact information is easy to find.

You should also avoid using tables and graphics in your resume, as these can be difficult for ATS to read.

4. Optimize Your File Name and Formatting

The file name and formatting of your resume can also affect your chances of getting past ATS. When you save your resume, use a file name that includes your name and the job title you’re applying for. For example, “John_Smith_Software_Engineer.pdf”.

You should also use a standard font and font size. Avoid using fancy fonts or small font sizes, as these can be difficult for ATS to read.

5. Use a PDF Format

The best file format to use for your resume is PDF. PDF files are universally compatible with ATS, and they preserve the formatting of your resume.

To convert your resume to PDF, you can use a free online converter such as ilovepdf.

6. Avoid Using Tables and Graphics

As we mentioned in the previous section, you should avoid using tables and graphics in your resume. ATS are designed to scan resumes for text, and they can have difficulty reading tables and graphics.

If you need to include a table or graphic in your resume, make sure that it is simple and easy to read. You should also use alt text to describe the table or graphic.

7. Proofread Carefully for Errors

Finally, before you submit your resume, proofread it carefully for errors. Any errors, even minor ones, can hurt your chances of getting past ATS.

Make sure that your resume is free of typos, grammatical errors, and formatting errors. You should also have someone else proofread your resume to catch any errors that you may have missed.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting past ATS and landing more interviews.

For more help with writing an ATS-friendly resume, visit ResumeGemini.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by recruiters and hiring managers to manage the hiring process. ATS helps automate and streamline the recruitment process, from screening resumes and cover letters to scheduling interviews and making hiring decisions.

2. How can I tell if a company is using ATS?

There are a few signs that a company is using ATS: * Online job application: If you apply for a job online, there’s a good chance that the company uses ATS. * Keyword-rich job descriptions: ATS relies on keywords to scan resumes, so job descriptions that are full of keywords are likely to be optimized for ATS. * Automatic email responses: If you receive an automatic email response after submitting your application, it’s likely that the company uses ATS.

3. What are the most common mistakes people make when submitting resumes to ATS?

Some of the most common mistakes people make when submitting resumes to ATS include: * Using too much formatting: ATS can have difficulty parsing resumes that are heavily formatted with tables, columns, and graphics. * Including irrelevant information: ATS is looking for specific information, so including irrelevant information can make it difficult for ATS to find the information it needs. * Making it difficult to read: ATS can have difficulty parsing resumes that are difficult to read, such as those with small font sizes or poor-quality printing.

4. How can I bypass ATS without lying on my resume?

There are a few ways to bypass ATS without lying on your resume: * Use keywords: ATS relies on keywords to scan resumes, so including relevant keywords in your resume can help it get past the initial screening. * Use a resume builder: Resume builders like ResumeGemini can help you create an ATS-friendly resume that is optimized for keywords and formatted properly. * Proofread your resume carefully: Before submitting your resume, proofread it carefully to make sure there are no errors. ATS can be very picky, so even small errors can cause your resume to be rejected.

5. What is the best way to format my resume for ATS?

The best way to format your resume for ATS is to use a simple, easy-to-read format. Use a standard font size and typeface, and avoid using too much formatting. ATS can have difficulty parsing resumes that are heavily formatted with tables, columns, and graphics.

6. What are some tips for writing a cover letter that will get past ATS?

Some tips for writing a cover letter that will get past ATS include: * Keep it concise: ATS can have difficulty parsing long cover letters, so keep yours to one page. * Use keywords: Include relevant keywords in your cover letter, especially in the first few sentences. * Highlight your skills and experience: ATS is looking for candidates who have the skills and experience needed for the job, so highlight your skills and experience in your cover letter.