Given how easy it is to submit a job application online, companies are often inundated with resumes as they search for the perfect candidate. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are ways in which companies can streamline their review of applicants and unfortunately, many job seekers are unaware that their resumes may never reach a hiring manager if they do not have strategic resumes targeting specific positions they are applying for. An ATS is software used by companies to scan, filter, and rank job applications based on the relevance of the content to the job description. Understanding how ATS works and formatting your resume to pass these systems is crucial for getting your application noticed.
How ATS Software Works
An ATS is designed to make the hiring process more efficient by automating the initial screening of resumes. Instead of a human reading every application, the ATS scans the resumes for specific keywords, phrases, and formats related to the job description. ATS then rank the applications based on how well they match the employer’s criteria, including education, experience, and skills.
If your resume is not optimized for ATS, even if you are highly qualified for the role, it could be filtered out before a recruiter ever sees it. For job seekers, the key to passing ATS screening is to ensure that your resume is both keyword-optimized and properly formatted — in other words, no creative formatting styles, and tailored to each job you apply for.
Optimizing Keywords for ATS
One of the most critical aspects of making your resume ATS-friendly is using the right keywords. ATS software scans for exact matches to the job description’s keywords, so it is important to tailor your resume for each job you apply to.
- Match Job Description Keywords: Carefully read the job posting and identify the key skills and qualifications listed. For example, if the job posting mentions “project management,” make sure that exact phrase is included in your resume if it is relevant to your experience. Download the FrogHire.aiextension to assist you in tailoring your resume, as you can look at each job description alongside your resume while you make edits
- Use Common Industry Terms: Avoid using overly creative job titles or jargon that may not align with industry standards. Stick to straightforward terms and phrases that an ATS will easily recognize
Proper Resume Formatting for ATS
In addition to keywords, the structure and formatting of your resume can affect its ability to pass through ATS software. ATS software often struggles to read complex formatting, so keeping your resume clean and simple is essential
- Use Standard Fonts and Formats: Stick to traditional fonts like Arial or Calibri. Avoid using graphics, images, or charts, as these can confuse the ATS
- Stick to a Simple Structure: Use standard headings like “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.” Avoid columns, tables, or unusual section headings, which could cause the ATS to misinterpret the content; a two column resume could easily confuse the ATS, so rather than try to be creative, err on the side of caution with a single column resume
- Submit the Right File Format: Most ATS software prefer resumes in .docx or .pdf formats. It is in your best interest to read any specific requirements the job listing has regarding resume format in case their ATS is not every format friendly
Other Tips for ATS Success
- Avoid Headers and Footers: Keep important details like your name and contact information in the body of the resume
- Use Bullet Points for Easy Scanning: Bullet points make it easier for both ATS and human recruiters to quickly scan your resume for relevant information
TLDR: With ATS software filtering most job applications (especially in larger companies), ensuring your resume is properly optimized for these systems is critical. Use targeted keywords, simplify your resume’s formatting, and tailor your resume for each job application as a way to increase your chances of getting noticed (and moving forward in the hiring process). To search for open positions, download the FrogHire.aiextension for your job/internships hunt—with the personal dashboard you can not only organize your search but you will be able to revise/tailor your resume alongside each job post, while also looking for employers that are nondomestic worker friendly (if you seek work visa sponsorship).