ATS Resume Optimization Techniques
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by employers to streamline the hiring process.
It scans and filters resumes based on specific criteria to identify candidates who best match the job description.
To ensure your resume makes it past the ATS and into the hands of a hiring manager, it’s crucial to optimize it effectively.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to optimize your resume for ATS.
1. Use Keywords Strategically
Incorporate Job-Specific Terms
ATS software scans resumes for keywords related to the job.
To improve your chances of passing the ATS, include keywords from the job description in your resume. These can be skills, qualifications, and industry-specific terms.
Example:
If the job description mentions “project management,” “agile methodology,” and “budget forecasting,” make sure these terms appear in your resume, especially in your skills and experience sections.
2. Choose a Simple and Professional Format
Avoid Complex Designs
ATS software can struggle with complex resume formats. Stick to a simple, professional layout with clear headings and bullet points.
Avoid using elaborate fonts, graphics, or unusual formatting that might confuse the ATS.
Recommended Format:
- Use standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri.
- Use standard section headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.”
- Avoid headers and footers, as they can be misread by the ATS.
3. Use Standard Section Headings
Be Clear and Consistent
ATS systems are programmed to recognize standard headings. Use conventional headings for each section of your resume to ensure the ATS can accurately parse your information.
Common Headings:
- Work Experience
- Education
- Skills
- Certifications
- Professional Summary
4. Include Relevant Skills
Showcase Your Abilities
Include both hard skills (specific, teachable abilities) and soft skills (interpersonal attributes).
Make sure these skills are relevant to the job you’re applying for and are mentioned in the job description.
Example:
If the job requires “data analysis,” “team leadership,” and “Excel proficiency,” ensure these skills are highlighted in your skills section and throughout your work experience.
5. Optimize for Both Hard and Soft Skills
Balance Your Skillset
While hard skills are crucial, don’t ignore soft skills. Both are important for many roles.
Make sure to incorporate soft skills like “communication,” “problem-solving,” and “teamwork” where appropriate.
6. Quantify Your Achievements
Use Numbers and Data
ATS systems and hiring managers appreciate concrete evidence of your achievements.
Quantify your accomplishments to provide measurable evidence of your impact.
Example:
“Managed a team of 10 and increased sales by 20% over six months” is more impactful than “Managed a team and increased sales.”
7. Use Simple Language
Avoid Jargon and Complex Terms
While industry-specific terms are important, avoid overly complex language or jargon that may not be recognized by the ATS. Stick to clear, straightforward language.
Example:
Instead of “leveraged synergies to enhance operational efficiency,” use “improved operational efficiency by streamlining processes.”
8. Include Relevant Certifications and Education
Highlight Your Qualifications
List your certifications and educational qualifications in a clear and standard format. Make sure these are relevant to the job and mentioned in the job description.
Example:
“Certified Project Management Professional (PMP)”
“Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration”
9. Avoid Unusual Characters and Formatting
Stick to Standard Characters
Use standard characters and avoid special symbols or unusual formatting.
ATS systems may not recognize these and could misinterpret or discard your resume.
Example:
Use “&” instead of “&” and avoid special bullet points or text boxes.
10. Test Your Resume
Use ATS-Friendly Tools
There are tools available that can help you test how well your resume performs with ATS.
Websites like Jobscan and ResumeWorded allow you to compare your resume against job descriptions and provide optimization tips.
11. Use a Chronological or Hybrid Resume Format
Choose an Effective Structure
ATS systems often handle chronological and hybrid formats better than functional formats. Chronological resumes list experience in reverse order, while hybrid resumes combine elements of chronological and functional formats.
Chronological Example:
- Work Experience
- Job Title, Company, Dates
- Responsibilities and Achievements
Hybrid Example:
- Skills
- Skill 1
- Skill 2
- Work Experience
- Job Title, Company, Dates
- Responsibilities and Achievements
12. Keep It Relevant
Tailor Your Resume for Each Application
Customize your resume for each job application by aligning it with the specific job description. This increases the likelihood of including relevant keywords and skills.
Example:
If applying for a marketing role, emphasize experience and skills related to marketing campaigns, social media, and analytics.
13. Proofread and Edit
Ensure Accuracy and Readability
Finally, proofread your resume to avoid errors and ensure it’s free of typos. Errors can affect readability and may impact how the ATS scans your document.
Conclusion
Optimizing your resume for an ATS is crucial to ensuring it gets seen by human recruiters.
By using relevant keywords, a simple format, standard headings, and quantifying your achievements, you can improve your chances of passing through the ATS filters.
Regularly updating and tailoring your resume for each job application, while avoiding complex formatting and jargon, will help you create a resume that stands out both to the ATS and to hiring managers.