Increase Your Chances of Getting an Interview: 7 Resume Writing Tips to Beat the ATS
If you’re currently job hunting and wondering why you haven’t received any interview calls—especially from large companies—consider the possibility that they are using an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Your application may not have even reached a human recruiter yet!
What is an ATS?
Some job seekers may not be familiar with ATS, which stands for Applicant Tracking System. This software helps companies manage the hiring process efficiently by screening and filtering resumes based on relevant keywords. Instead of manually reading every resume, recruiters rely on ATS to shortlist candidates who match the job criteria.
Why Companies Use ATS
ATS offers many benefits:
✅ Efficient Resume Screening – It quickly scans and filters resumes to identify qualified candidates.
✅ Data Management & Tracking – It organizes applicant information and tracks hiring progress.
✅ Cost & Time Savings – It reduces the time HR teams spend reviewing applications.
✅ Fair & Impartial Process – It ensures equal opportunities by assessing candidates objectively.
That’s why many global companies and recruitment agencies use ATS to streamline their hiring process. But for job seekers, this means you need to optimize your resume to ensure it gets past the system and reaches an actual recruiter.
1.Use the Right Keywords
ATS relies on keywords to filter resumes. The more relevant keywords your resume contains, the higher your chances of passing the initial screening.
✅ How to Find Keywords?
Check the job description of the position you’re applying for. Identify important skills, tools, or industry-specific terms, and include them in your resume.
Example:
- Applying for a Software Engineer role? Include keywords like "Software Development," "JavaScript," "Python," "C++," "PHP."
- Applying for a Marketing Manager role? Use terms like "Digital Marketing," "SEO," "Content Marketing," "Social Media Management," "Brand Strategy."
2.Keep Your Resume Format Simple & Clean
ATS-friendly resumes should be simple and easy to read. Avoid complex designs, tables, or multi-column layouts. The best format to use is Chronological (listing your most recent job first).
3.Avoid Images & Graphics
Many ATS programs can’t read graphics or charts. This means using infographics, icons, or skill-rating graphs might cause your resume to be ignored. Instead, describe your skills in text format to ensure the system can read them.
4. Use ATS-Friendly Fonts
Choose fonts that are clear and easy to scan, such as Arial, Calibri, Cambria, Garamond and Georgia. Font size should be 10-12 points for readability.
5.Use Clear Section Headings
ATS scans resumes for structured sections like, "Work Experience", "Education", or "Skills". Make sure each section is clearly labeled so the system can extract relevant information correctly.
6.Proofread & Check for Errors
Before submitting your resume, double-check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Small errors can make your resume look unprofessional.
7.Update Keywords Regularly
Even if you’re applying for similar roles, job descriptions may vary across companies. Always tweak your resume to match each job posting by updating relevant keywords.
By following these tips, your resume will be optimized for ATS screening, increasing your chances of being noticed by HR and recruiters.
Looking for job opportunities? Explore various industries and job openings here
Reference:
https://www.jobscan.co/blog/fortune-500-use-applicant-tracking-systems/
https://gohire.io/blog/how-many-companies-use-applicant-tracking
https://resources.workable.com/career-center/how-to-optimize-your-resume-for-an-ats/
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/ats-resume-template
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/chronological-resume-tips-and-examples
