This article may become outdated in a few months as they might be fixing the updates for those issues. An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software that reads and sorts resumes for HR purposes. However, ATS has limitations:
- It cannot read images, columns, tables, or semicolons.
- It does not recognize PDF format.
To ensure your resume is ATS-friendly, consider the following tips:
- Remove any images.
- Eliminate tables and semicolons.
- Use only text formatting with letters, commas, periods, and bullet points.
- Stick to black font color.
- Limit your document to one page.
- Rename the document using only your last name.
- Change the format from PDF to DOC.
- Include a skills section featuring specifically selected keywords.
- Use Times New Roman font, size 12.
Following these guidelines can improve your chances of passing through the ATS effectively.
[Your Name]
[Your City, State] • [Your Phone Number] • [Your Email Address] • [LinkedIn URL or Portfolio URL]
Professional Summary
A concise summary (2-3 sentences) that highlights your experience, skills, and specific roles or industries. Tailor this section to the job description, incorporating relevant keywords directly from the posting.
Skills
- Core Skills: List your top skills relevant to the job, such as “Project Management,” “Data Analysis,” or “Digital Marketing.”
- Technical Skills: Mention specific software, platforms, or tools (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Cloud, SQL, Python).
- Soft Skills: Include key interpersonal skills (e.g., leadership, communication) that are relevant to the position.
Professional Experience
Job Title
Company Name, Location (City, State)
Dates of Employment (Month Year – Month Year)
- Responsibilities: Use bullet points to outline key responsibilities, focusing on quantifiable achievements (e.g., “Increased sales by 20% by developing targeted marketing campaigns”).
- Achievements: Include metrics whenever possible (e.g., “Reduced project turnaround time by 15%”).
(Repeat for each relevant job in reverse chronological order.)
Education
Degree (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Marketing)
University Name, Location (City, State)
Graduation Year (or “Expected [Year]” if still studying)
Certifications (if applicable)
Certification Title, Issuing Organization, Year Awarded (e.g., “Project Management Professional (PMP), PMI, 2022”)
Additional Sections (optional)
- Volunteer Experience: If relevant to the position.
- Languages: List languages and proficiency (e.g., “Spanish (Fluent)”).
- Professional Affiliations: Any industry associations.
Tips for ATS Optimization
- File Format: Save as a .docx or .pdf (if the system allows).
- Consistent Formatting: Use clear section headings, standard fonts (Arial, Times New Roman, Calibri), and avoid images, tables, or special characters.
- Relevant Keywords: Ensure that skills and job-specific terms align with the job description.
