How to Write an ATS-Friendly Resume That Will Get Noticed

An ATS-friendly resume allows you to get past the ATS. In short, that means your resume has the right words related to the job post to show you meet the minimum qualifications for the position, earning you a spot in the next round of reviews beyond the bots.

SUBMIT RESUME TO FIND JOBS

There are several variables to consider to ensure your resume is ATS-friendly. Here are some tips to help you get started, followed by an ATS-friendly resume template.

1. Use an ATS-Optimized Format

You can choose from a functional, chronological, or blended format for your resume. However, to be the most compatible with ATS systems, go for the chronological format, listing your work experience from most recent to oldest.

2. Label Your Sections Correctly

You don’t want to confuse an ATS by using unfamiliar section headings. Go with standard section headings on your resume, such as:

• Work Experience
• Education
• Training
• Skills

Avoid ATS-unfriendly headings such as:

• Major Abilities
• Major Competencies
• Study History
• Jobs I’ve Completed

3. Include Job-Specific Keywords

One of the best ways to optimize your resume and grab the positive attention of an ATS is to use job-specific keywords—especially those found in the job description. Read the job post and be sure to include all your relevant skills and competencies throughout your resume.

You want to incorporate both the hard and soft skills required for the job. For example, if you’re applying for a communications manager position, you might include keywords such as:

• Email marketing
• Copywriting
• Detail-oriented
• Public relations
• Media management
• Blogging
• Online marketing
• Consumer data analysis

Ensure you have no typos or grammatical errors. Misspelled words might confuse the ATS and not get picked up as relevant. And even if you do pass the ATS, recruiters or hiring managers are likely to send a typo-riddled resume straight to the trash bin.

Pro Tip: You want the keywords you include in your resume to appear naturally throughout it. Avoid keyword stuffing that can do the opposite of gaining the attention you desire.

4. Be Common When Choosing Font and File Type

Rarely will you be told to “be common” throughout the job application and interview process. However, when it comes to your resume font and file type, common is best if you want to get past the ATS.

Use a resume font that is easy for both human readers and ATS systems to read. Go for Calibri, Arial, Times New Roman, or Georgia. Also, save and submit your resume in one of two common resume file types: Word or PDF. Avoid sending in images because ATS systems typically cannot read them.

5. Use the Right Template

Many want to make their resume stand out by incorporating graphics, an interesting or creative layout, and images. However, elements like those can make it difficult to read and confuse the ATS. If you want to get noticed and accepted by the company’s ATS, a simple, barebones resume with a standard layout tends to work best.

6. Run Your Resume Through an ATS Scanner

There are a few resume-checker options you can run your resume through to check on how well it’s rated in terms of ATS-friendliness. Here are some free resume scanners to consider:

• ZipJob
• TopResume
• Jobscan

Here is an ideal layout to use to create your own resume that’s ATS-friendly:

1. Heading

Your Name
Address
Email | Mobile | LinkedIn

2. Summary Statement or Objective

[This section should be brief and fall below your contact information so the ATS can read it easily and not confuse it with your contact information.]

3. Professional Experience

[Incorporate your job titles and companies with key job duties, including keywords throughout.]

4. Education, Certifications, and Training

[Incorporate your education, training, and certifications, including keywords throughout.]

5. Additional Skills and Accomplishments

[If you feel the need, incorporate an additional skills section with more keywords to highlight skills and competencies not listed elsewhere in your resume.]

As a recruiting firm, Advantis Global works with a large range of companies seeking to place permanent and contract skilled tech talent. Whether you want to work for companies in the Fortune 50s range to start-ups, our team of recruiters can support you in landing your next job at your ideal company. In many instances, the talent we place is looking for an industry or position change. We help bring them to the top of the pile, increasing their chances of landing their next job, which is often a promotion or higher paying than their previous job.

In addition to supporting your career, we offer interview coaching, so you can stand out throughout the application and interview process. Submit your resume or apply to a job on our website to get connected with a recruiter today.