How to Create an ATS-Friendly Resume
In today’s competitive job market, many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline their recruitment process. If your resume isn’t optimized for these systems, it might never reach human eyes, no matter how qualified you are. This guide will walk you through key tips for creating an ATS-friendly resume that increases your chances of landing an interview.
1. Use a Simple and Clean Format
ATS software often struggles with complex formats. Stick to a clean, simple design with standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. Avoid using images, tables, and graphics, as these can confuse the system. Keep your resume in a text-based format (like Word or PDF) that’s easy for ATS to parse.
Pro Tip: Use bullet points to structure your accomplishments and avoid columns or multiple sections that could be misread.
2. Include Relevant Keywords
ATS software scans resumes for specific keywords related to the job. These keywords are usually found in the job description. Tailor your resume to each job by including relevant skills, qualifications, and industry-specific terms. Be strategic but avoid “keyword stuffing,” which could make your resume sound robotic.
Example: If you’re applying for an IT job, include terms like “software development,” “coding languages,” or “agile methodologies.”
3. Focus on Essential Information
Resist the temptation to overload your resume with excessive details. ATS focuses on essential sections like work experience, education, and skills. Make sure these sections are clearly labeled and easy to navigate. Avoid information that isn't relevant to the job you're applying for, like unrelated hobbies or very early career roles.
Key Sections to Include:
Contact Information
Professional Summary
Work Experience
Skills
Education
Certifications (if applicable)
4. Customize Your Professional Summary
A well-written professional summary can capture the attention of both the ATS and hiring managers. This section should be a brief (2–3 sentence) overview of your qualifications, relevant skills, and career goals. Use the summary to introduce yourself and align your experience with the job you’re applying for.
Example Summary:
“Experienced marketing professional with over 5 years of expertise in digital marketing, SEO strategies, and content development. Proven track record of increasing online engagement and lead generation for Fortune 500 companies.”
5. Use Standard Job Titles and Headings
Avoid creative job titles or ambiguous section headings. Use straightforward titles like “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education” to ensure the ATS recognizes them. Stick to commonly accepted job titles that accurately describe your roles. ATS may not recognize non-standard terms, causing your resume to be overlooked.
Right: Marketing Manager
Wrong: Digital Wizard
6. Quantify Achievements
ATS may recognize keywords, but hiring managers want to see tangible results. Use data and numbers to quantify your accomplishments. This can help differentiate you from other candidates and prove your value. For example, instead of just listing “managed marketing campaigns,” say “managed marketing campaigns that increased sales by 30%.”
7. Avoid Headers and Footers
Some ATS software has trouble reading information placed in headers and footers, so keep your contact information and any important details within the main body of your resume.
8. Test Your Resume
Before sending your resume, run it through an online ATS checker to see how well it performs. This can help identify any potential formatting or keyword issues before your resume reaches the recruiter.
Additional Tips from Manpower Malaysia
For Fresh Graduates: Focus on transferable skills and internships. Highlight projects or group work that required collaboration, problem-solving, or leadership.
For Career Changers: Emphasize your relevant skills and how they apply to the new field. Include a compelling summary explaining your career shift.
For Mid-Career Professionals: Tailor your resume to showcase your extensive experience while incorporating any new, relevant skills you've acquired. Keep the format concise and focus on key achievements.
For more detailed tips, check out these articles from Manpower Malaysia:
CVs to Stand Out – Fresh Graduates
CVs to Stand Out – Career Changers
CVs to Stand Out – Mid-Career Professionals
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating an ATS-friendly resume that not only gets past the system but also impresses hiring managers. Always tailor your resume for each job and keep it clear, concise, and results-oriented.