How to Format Your Resume for ATS Success
Many companies today use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes before they reach a human. These systems scan for keywords, skills, and easy-to-read formatting. That’s why making your resume ATS-friendly is essential. Here’s how to ensure your resume gets through the software to impress hiring managers.
Keep Your Layout Simple
Applicant Tracking Systems don’t read resumes the same way people do. Complex layouts can confuse them, leading to errors. A clear, straightforward design works best.
- Use Traditional Sections: Stick to basics—Summary, Experience, Skills, and Education.
- Avoid Tables or Columns: Many ATS can’t interpret text in columns, tables, or text boxes. Avoid them to ensure all information is readable.
- Standard Bullet Points: Stick to simple, solid dots. Fancy symbols can be misinterpreted by ATS software.
Choose a Common Font
While you might be tempted to use creative fonts, they can interfere with ATS readability. Choose something standard:
- Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri: These fonts are easy to read and ATS-compatible.
- Font Size: Stick to 10-12 points for the main text, with slightly larger headings.
These choices make your resume easy for both ATS and hiring managers to read.
Save Your File in the Right Format
Saving your resume as the wrong file type can lead to formatting issues. Most ATS prefer .docx files. PDF formats are also common but can sometimes cause compatibility problems. Unless specified, go with .docx to keep your formatting safe across ATS systems.
Avoid Images, Graphics, and Logos
Applicant Tracking Systems read text, not images. Graphics, logos, or photos may throw off the system. Instead, focus on content. Describe achievements and skills in clear, text-based entries.
Optimize Your Headings and Sections
Use clear, recognizable section headers to organize your resume. ATS software reads headers to understand which section is which, so keep them traditional.
- Examples: “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” “Summary”
- Avoid Uncommon Labels: Titles like “Career Story” or “Professional Journey” might be creative but can confuse ATS.
Using standard titles ensures the system categorizes each section correctly.
Prioritize Consistent Formatting
ATS systems pick up on minor inconsistencies, which can impact readability. Stick to a consistent style:
- Dates: If you write dates as “Jan 2020” in one place, don’t switch to “January 2020” elsewhere.
- Punctuation and Spacing: Use the same type of bullet points, spacing, and font sizes throughout.
Consistency helps ATS scan your resume without issues, while also making it look polished for hiring managers.
Use Keywords Naturally
ATS systems look for keywords from the job description. Include them where they fit naturally. However, don’t “stuff” keywords unnaturally, as ATS can flag these attempts.
For example, if the job description says “API documentation,” weave it into your experience section like this:
“Created user-friendly API documentation, improving developer efficiency.”
Remember, even though you’re optimizing for ATS, you still need your resume to read well for humans.
Final Steps: Test Your Resume for ATS Compatibility
Before sending your resume, consider running it through an ATS resume checker like Jobscan or Rezi. These tools can help you spot any formatting or keyword issues and increase your chances of getting noticed.
Crafting an ATS-friendly resume may feel a bit technical, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By keeping the layout simple, you ensure clarity. Using standard fonts helps maintain professionalism. Focusing on consistent formatting ensures that both the ATS and the hiring manager get the information they need without distraction. Follow these tips. Your resume is more likely to pass the ATS test. It may then land in front of human eyes.
