TIPS ON PASSING ATS WITH YOUR RESUME (How to write Resumes)

The job hunting landscape has evolved in different aspects since the advent of the internet. Thanks to the internet, online applications for a particular job is the new norm. While it makes things easier for applicants as one can apply for a job within seconds by just uploading their resumes, it also implies that there is an increased competition for a single post. To ensure proper handling of the innumerable resumes and applications for the open post. Recruiters often use ATS (Application Tracking Systems) software systems which track, manage and can filter the resume/applications. To put in simpler terms, your resume is bound to go through the ATS which will then gauge it and only forward it to human hands (for further consideration) only if your resume passes some standard metrics.

Luckily, getting past the ATS is a lot easier than one might think. Follow these dos and don’ts to create an ATS-friendly resume that’ll sail right through—and impress the recruiters too.

1. INCLUDE THE RIGHT KEYWORDS

At its core, every ATS algorithm is looking for keywords and key pieces of information to determine your suitability for the job role. Hence it will scan your resume for specific keywords, keywords which have been fed into the ATS algorithm by the hiring manager himself. The keywords generally pertain to whatever skills, qualifications, experience, or qualities are most important for performing the specific job. You can determine the required keywords by simply reviewing the job role. Look out for specific words used in the posting to define the ideal candidate. Another wise way of incorporating keywords in the resume is to research the company itself and use words which align well with the company’s ideals and vision. If you still aren’t confident with your keyword choices, there are several tools online which can help you.

2. ADD CONTEXT TO YOUR KEYWORDS

Simply blindly adding keywords to the resume won’t help. Most ATS programs prefer applications that do not list one keyword immediately after another. The ATS software is more likely to approve resumes that incorporate keywords into the rest of their text. In other words, adding proper context to your keywords makes your resume stand out from others. Remember that you won’t be the one who’s adding a similar set of keywords in their resumes - so if you want to stand out as an applicant make sure to elaborate and add unique context.

3. PICK A SUITABLE FILE FORMAT

Only two file formats are in real contention for resumes - pdf or docx. There are certain assumptions which imply that some ATS softwares have difficulty parsing through a pdf file. There are several views on this issue. However, just to be on the safe side it is suggested to use a docx file format(text based). Try saving your resume via Microsoft Word as a .docx file. This will ensure that your specific formatting style is preserved and the ATS has no difficulty parsing through it. However, if the job application portal specifically asks for a pdf file, submit the resume in a pdf file.

4. DON’T ATTEMPT TO TRICK THE ATS

One might come across several amateur suggestions floating in the internet directing one steps to trick the ATS.

DON’T DO ANY OF THAT!

Any such tricks might help you clear the first hurdle of scrutiny but know for sure, they will eventually be discovered in the next level. Once the system or the recruiting manager finds out your little trick, you get a bad reputation as it might imply that you are willing to cheat and move forward. Hence, no overloading the resume with keywords without adding context or pasting keywords in white or any such trick. Trust your capabilities, submit an honest resume and avoid cheap tricks.

5. ENSURE YOUR RESUME IS READABLE BY ATS AND EMPLOYER

Just like the normal convention, ATS algorithm reads from left to right and top to bottom. It is wise to use any one of the three most used conventional formats - chronological, combination and functional. Don’t hesitate to use a resume template so that you include all the relevant information in a chronological order.

6. LIMIT UNIQUE FORMATTING

Unique formatting is often used to draw attention to your resume. However the ATS might get confused and misread or ignore vital information due to excessive unique formatting styles. Try to reduce the usage of following aspects of the resume to make things easier for the ATS -

Graphs

Tables

Charts

Boxes

Graphics

Columns

Animations

Pictures

Colored fonts or elements

Special characters (like an asterisk or backslash) on the same line as your name

7. USE CLEAR LANGUAGE

It is recommended that you use clear and concise language in the resume. Using catch phrases or unique idioms or puns to impress the hiring manager is understandable. However such ornamented language can confuse the ATS software. Hence, it is advised to use straightforward words and clear language in the resume.

8. WRITE OUT THE ACRONYMS

Write out the full form of the acronym or the abbreviation for its first use in your resume. Once you have spelled out the full form, you can use the acronym for later use in the resume. This makes sure that the ATS algorithm understands the meaning of the acronym or abbreviation.

9. USE REGULAR BULLET POINTS

Make sure you are using regular bullet point designs like solid circles or arrows. Avoid using fancy bullet point designs like stars, squares, etc. ATS programmes often can’t identify unique bullet point designs.

10. INCLUDE UP TO DATE ONLINE INFORMATION

Before submitting the resume, check whether the online information about you aligns with the content of your resume. ATS softwares these days are advanced enough to identify and research your digital identity. For instance, make sure that any information shared by you regarding your professional life in social media does not contradict the information on your resume.

11. SEPARATE TITLES AND NAMES

Make sure that the formatting of your resume clearly distinguishes between your name and the job titles. If a professional title is too close to other information on your resume, the ATS software may interpret all the information as part of the title and result in huge confusion.

12. APPLY TO ROLES YOU’RE QUALIFIED FOR

This is one of the most basic rules of job hunting. First and foremost, make sure that you are truly qualified for the job role. If not, don’t submit an application just because you can. Several industry experts have stated that only a small portion of applications are adequately qualified for the particular job role. If you do not possess the core skills required for the job you’re better off not applying to save both your and the recruiter’s time.

13. TEST IF THE RESUME IS SCANNABLE OR NOT BY ATS

Before submitting your resume, make sure that the ATS software can scan and parse through your resume. The easiest way to do is to convert your resume into plain text format. Now look out for any unusual formatting like a shifted heading or title or any character which can’t be read in the text format. See if the information on the original resume is present even in its text format, intact. If everything is alright in the plain text format, your resume is good to go.

14. SUBMIT THE RESUME EARLY

This is a very basic thing. Always be punctual. Send your application via the official portal or the official mail as soon as possible. ATS softwares can be programmed to accept only a certain number of applications before closing. So it is advised to send in your application or resume as soon as you can.

Sample Resume:

[Your Name]

[Address]

[City, State Zip]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

Objective:

To obtain a Software Developer role in a dynamic organization where my skills in software design, development, and problem-solving can be utilized to the fullest.

Education:

[Degree and Field], [Institution], [Graduation Date]

[Relevant coursework, academic achievements, or certifications]

Skills:

[Technical skills, programming languages, tools, and frameworks]

Tip: Use relevant keywords to the job description to pass the ATS scan.

Experience:

[Job Title], [Company], [Employment Dates]

[Achievement or responsibility]

[Achievement or responsibility]

[Achievement or responsibility]

[Job Title], [Company], [Employment Dates]

[Achievement or responsibility]

[Achievement or responsibility]

[Achievement or responsibility]

Projects:

[Project Title], [Duration], [Role]

[Description of the project]

[Tools and technologies used]

[Achievement or responsibility]

[Project Title], [Duration], [Role]

[Description of the project]

[Tools and technologies used]

[Achievement or responsibility]

Tip: Include links to your Github or portfolio to showcase your projects and demonstrate your skills.

Certifications:

[Certification Title], [Issuing Organization], [Date]

[Certification Title], [Issuing Organization], [Date]

References:

[Name], [Title], [Company], [Phone Number], [Email]

[Name], [Title], [Company], [Phone Number], [Email]

Tip: Only include references if requested by the employer.

Additional Tips:

1. Keep your resume simple, clear, and concise.
2. Use bullet points and action verbs to describe your achievements and responsibilities.
3. Highlight your technical skills and experience with specific tools and technologies.
4. Customize your resume for each job application to match the job requirements.
5. Proofread your resume for errors and typos before submitting it.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, an ATS-friendly resume is critical to land a job in today's digital world. It is important to understand that the resume will go through an automated screening process before it reaches human hands, and therefore, it is crucial to optimize the resume accordingly. By including the right keywords, adding context to them, using suitable file formats, and avoiding any tricks to deceive the ATS, one can increase their chances of getting through the screening process. It is also important to ensure that the resume is readable by both the ATS and the employer and to limit unique formatting styles. Using clear language, writing out acronyms, and using regular bullet points can also make the resume ATS-friendly. Finally, including up-to-date online information and separating titles and names can help recruiters to verify your background and credentials, ultimately increasing your chances of getting hired. By following these dos and don'ts, candidates can create a resume that stands out, gets past the ATS screening, and lands them the job they desire.