Get expert answers to all your questions about ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems), resume optimization, and job application best practices. Learn how to create resumes that pass ATS screening and impress recruiters.
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is software used by employers to automatically filter, rank, and manage job applications. Over 98% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS to screen resumes before human recruiters see them. The system scans resumes for keywords, formatting, and relevant experience to determine if candidates meet job requirements.
ATS systems work by parsing resume content, extracting key information like contact details, work experience, education, and skills. They then match this information against job requirements using keyword matching, scoring algorithms, and ranking systems. Resumes that score above a certain threshold are forwarded to human recruiters.
ATS compatibility is crucial because 75% of resumes are rejected by ATS before reaching human eyes. An ATS-friendly resume ensures your application passes initial screening, increases visibility to recruiters, and significantly improves your chances of getting interviews.
An ATS-friendly resume features: simple, clean formatting; standard section headers (Experience, Education, Skills); plain text without graphics or images; common file formats (PDF or Word); consistent font usage; proper keyword optimization; and clear contact information at the top.
PDF and Word (.docx) formats are best for ATS. PDF preserves formatting across different systems, while Word documents are easily parsed by most ATS platforms. Avoid older formats like .doc, .txt, or image files which may cause parsing errors.
Avoid complex column layouts in ATS resumes. Most ATS systems read left-to-right, top-to-bottom, and columns can confuse the parsing order. Use a single-column, chronological layout for best ATS compatibility.
Find resume keywords by: analyzing job descriptions for repeated terms; identifying industry-specific skills and technologies; using professional networking sites like LinkedIn; reviewing competitor job postings; and incorporating both hard skills (technical abilities) and soft skills (communication, leadership).
Include 15-25 relevant keywords naturally throughout your resume. Focus on quality over quantity - use keywords that genuinely reflect your experience. Keyword stuffing (overusing keywords unnaturally) can hurt your application and appears unprofessional to human recruiters.
Place keywords strategically in: professional summary (2-3 key terms); skills section (10-15 relevant skills); work experience descriptions (naturally integrated); education section (relevant coursework, certifications); and throughout job titles when accurate.
Common ATS mistakes include: using images, graphics, or logos; complex formatting with tables or columns; non-standard section headers; incorrect file formats; missing contact information; keyword stuffing; using fancy fonts; and including personal information like photos or age.
Yes, use simple bullet points (• or -) in ATS resumes. Avoid fancy symbols, arrows, or custom bullets that ATS may not recognize. Standard bullet points help organize information clearly and are properly parsed by most systems.
Never include photos on ATS resumes. Photos can cause parsing errors, may lead to unconscious bias, and are generally not recommended in most countries for legal reasons. Focus on content and qualifications instead of visual elements.
Improve your ATS score by: matching job description keywords exactly; using standard section headers; maintaining consistent formatting; including relevant certifications and skills; quantifying achievements with numbers; using industry-standard job titles; and ensuring error-free grammar and spelling.
Essential ATS resume sections include: Contact Information, Professional Summary or Objective, Work Experience, Education, Skills, and Certifications (if applicable). Optional sections: Projects, Volunteer Work, Awards, or Publications, depending on your field and experience level.
ATS resumes should be 1-2 pages for most professionals. Entry-level candidates should aim for 1 page, while experienced professionals can use 2 pages. Senior executives or academics may extend to 3 pages, but ensure every section adds value and contains relevant keywords.
Use our AI-powered resume builder to create a professional, ATS-optimized resume that gets you more interviews.
Build My Resume Now