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In today’s competitive job market, many companies rely on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline their hiring process.
However, these automated systems can be a challenge for job seekers, as they filter through resumes to select the most qualified candidates.
In this article, we will explore 14 best practices to help you beat the ATS and increase your chances of landing an interview.
By following these best practices, you can gain a competitive edge and increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, the insights provided in this article will help you navigate the ATS maze and stand out among other applicants.
Don’t miss out on valuable tips that can significantly impact your job search success—continue reading to learn how to beat the ATS and get closer to your dream job.
Jobscan helps you optimize your resume for any job, highlighting the key experience and skills recruiters need to see.
Quick summary of the 14 best practices to beat an ATS:
- Understanding how applicant tracking systems work
- Choose the right keywords and tailor your resume
- Format your resume appropriately
- Optimize your resume with relevant job titles
- Highlight key skills and qualifications
- Incorporate industry-specific terminology
- Utilize action verbs and quantifiable achievements
- Keep your resume simple and easy to read
- Avoid graphics and fancy formatting
- Customize your cover letter
- Submit your resume in the right format
- Network and leverage referrals
- Research and understand company culture
- Seek professional resume assistance
1. Understanding applicant tracking systems work
In today’s digital age, many companies utilize ATS to streamline their hiring process and efficiently sift through a large number of resumes.
An ATS is a software application that scans and evaluates resumes based on specific criteria set by employers, such as keywords, skills, and qualifications.
By understanding how ATS works and its significance in the job application process, you can tailor your resume to optimize its chances of getting noticed and increase your chances of securing an interview.
ATS software employs algorithms to analyze resumes and rank them based on relevance to the job requirements.
These systems help employers save time and effort by automatically filtering out resumes that do not meet their criteria, allowing them to focus on the most qualified candidates.
Understanding the inner workings of an ATS can empower you to strategically align your resume with the job description, ensuring that the keywords and qualifications employers are seeking are prominently featured in your application materials.
Key factors to consider when understanding ATS include the importance of keyword optimization, the role of resume formatting, and the significance of tailoring your application to match the specific job requirements.
By incorporating the right keywords, structuring your resume effectively, and customizing it for each application, you can enhance its visibility to the ATS and increase the likelihood of your qualifications being recognized.
By delving deeper into the intricacies of ATS and its impact on the hiring process, you will gain valuable insights into how to navigate these systems and position yourself as a strong candidate.
In the following sections, we will explore various strategies and best practices to beat the ATS, ensuring your resume stands out and paves the way for success in your job search.
2. Choose the right keywords and tailor your resume
Selecting the right keywords and tailoring your resume to match the job requirements are essential steps in optimizing your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems.
ATS software scans resumes for specific keywords and phrases that align with the desired qualifications set by employers.
By strategically incorporating these keywords into your resume and customizing it for each application, you can increase the chances of getting past the initial screening process and capturing the attention of hiring managers.
To begin, carefully analyze the job description and identify the key skills, qualifications, and experience sought by the employer.
These keywords should be integrated naturally into your resume, focusing on areas such as the professional summary, work experience descriptions, and skills section.
By aligning your resume with the desired qualifications, you demonstrate your suitability for the position and improve your chances of being selected by both the ATS and hiring managers.
Tailoring your resume goes beyond keyword optimization. It involves highlighting your most relevant qualifications and experiences for the specific job you’re applying for.
Customize your resume to emphasize accomplishments and responsibilities that directly align with the job requirements. By tailoring your resume, you showcase your understanding of the role and effectively communicate your fit for the position.
Incorporating the right keywords and tailoring your resume are crucial strategies to increase your resume’s visibility and relevance to ATS.
By following these practices, you enhance your chances of getting noticed by both automated systems and hiring managers, ultimately improving your prospects of securing interviews and progressing in your job search.
3. Format your resume appropriately
The formatting of your resume is essential to ensure it is visually appealing, easy to read, and compatible with ATS.
By following appropriate formatting guidelines, you can increase the chances of your resume being effectively parsed by ATS and make a positive impression on hiring managers.
Start with a clean and professional layout. Use standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri in a font size between 10 and 12 points.
This ensures readability and compatibility across different systems. Maintain consistent formatting throughout your resume, including headings, subheadings, and bullet points.
Organize your resume with clear and logical sections. Begin with a professional summary or objective statement that highlights your key qualifications and career goals.
Follow this with sections for work experience, education, skills, and any additional relevant sections, such as certifications or volunteer experience.
Utilize bullet points to present your achievements, responsibilities, and skills within each section. This helps to break down information into easily scannable and digestible snippets.
Start each bullet point with action verbs and focus on quantifiable achievements to showcase your impact in previous roles.
Avoid excessive use of graphics, images, or elaborate formatting that may hinder the parsing of your resume by ATS.
Instead, maintain a simple and clean design that allows the content to shine. Save your resume in a compatible file format, such as PDF or Microsoft Word, to ensure it can be easily opened and read by different systems.
By formatting your resume appropriately, you enhance its readability, improve compatibility with ATS, and present a polished and professional image to potential employers.
Taking the time to format your resume effectively can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed and progressing in the hiring process.
Related: 13 Free ATS Resume Templates You Can Use
4. Optimize your resume with relevant job titles
Choosing the right job titles on your resume is crucial for catching the attention of Applicant Tracking Systems and potential employers.
Optimizing your resume with relevant job titles can help align your experience with the desired qualifications and increase the likelihood of your resume being selected for further consideration.
Start by carefully reviewing the job description and identifying the specific job titles or roles mentioned.
If your previous job titles don’t exactly match those mentioned in the job description, but your responsibilities and experience align, consider modifying your job titles to reflect the desired roles more closely.
This helps establish a clear connection between your past experience and the position you are applying for.
For example, if the job description uses the term “Marketing Coordinator” but your previous role was titled “Marketing Specialist,” you can adjust your job title to “Marketing Coordinator (formerly Marketing Specialist)” to bridge the gap between the desired title and your actual experience.
Additionally, consider including relevant keywords in your job titles. This can help emphasize specific skills or expertise that are sought after by employers.
For instance, if the job description emphasizes project management skills, you can incorporate relevant keywords like “Project Manager” or “Project Coordinator” into your job titles to highlight your proficiency in that area.
Remember to be truthful and accurate in your job title modifications, reflecting the nature of your actual responsibilities. The goal is to optimize your resume while maintaining honesty and authenticity.
By optimizing your resume with relevant job titles, you increase the chances of your resume resonating with both ATS and hiring managers.
This demonstrates a clear alignment between your past experience and the desired role, making it more likely for your resume to progress through the initial screening process and land you an interview.
5. Highlight key skills and qualifications
Effectively highlighting your key skills and qualifications on your resume is essential to grab the attention of hiring managers and ATS.
By showcasing your relevant abilities and qualifications prominently, you can increase your chances of standing out as a strong candidate.
Start by carefully reviewing the job description and identifying the specific skills and qualifications the employer is seeking.
Make a list of these key skills and qualifications, and then evaluate your own experiences and background to determine which ones align with the job requirements.
These are the skills and qualifications you should prioritize and emphasize on your resume.
Incorporate these key skills and qualifications in various sections of your resume. Include them in your professional summary or objective statement to provide an immediate snapshot of your relevant strengths.
Highlight them in your work experience section, using bullet points to showcase accomplishments and responsibilities that demonstrate your proficiency in those areas.
Consider creating a dedicated skills section where you can list and highlight your key skills in a concise format. Use bullet points or a combination of bullet points and subheadings to make the skills section easily scannable for both ATS and human readers.
When describing your achievements and experiences, use action verbs and specific examples to showcase how you have applied these key skills and qualifications in previous roles.
Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible to provide concrete evidence of your capabilities. Remember to tailor the highlighting of skills and qualifications to each specific job application.
Adjust the emphasis based on the most relevant skills and qualifications for each position, ensuring that the information you present aligns with the employer’s requirements.
By effectively highlighting your key skills and qualifications, you provide a clear demonstration of your suitability for the role.
This not only increases your chances of getting through the ATS screening but also captures the attention of hiring managers who are looking for candidates with the specific skills and qualifications they need.
6. Incorporate industry-specific terminology
Incorporating industry-specific terminology in your resume is a powerful way to demonstrate your familiarity with the field and enhance your chances of getting noticed by both ATS and hiring managers.
By using relevant industry-specific language and terminology, you can showcase your knowledge and align yourself as a qualified candidate.
Start by researching and identifying the specific industry-specific terms, buzzwords, and jargon commonly used in your field. These may include technical acronyms, specialized software, methodologies, or regulatory frameworks.
Review the job description and company website to gain insights into the terminology that resonates with the employer.
Integrate industry-specific terminology throughout your resume in a natural and contextually appropriate manner. Incorporate it in your professional summary, work experience descriptions, and skills sections.
By using the right terminology, you demonstrate your understanding of the industry and speak the same language as the hiring professionals.
Avoid using jargon excessively or in a way that may confuse general readers outside the industry.
Strike a balance between showcasing your industry knowledge and ensuring that your resume remains accessible and understandable to non-technical or non-industry-specific readers, including ATS systems.
Tailor the use of industry-specific terminology based on the specific job application. Focus on highlighting the most relevant terms and concepts that align with the job requirements.
This targeted approach shows your ability to communicate effectively within the industry and positions you as a knowledgeable candidate.
By incorporating industry-specific terminology, you demonstrate your expertise and familiarity with the field.
This helps your resume resonate with both the ATS and hiring managers, increasing the likelihood of being recognized as a qualified candidate.
7. Utilize action verbs and quantifiable achievements
To make your resume impactful and stand out to both hiring managers and ATS, it is crucial to utilize action verbs and highlight quantifiable achievements.
By doing so, you provide concrete evidence of your skills, accomplishments, and contributions in previous roles.
Begin by using strong action verbs to start each bullet point under your work experience section. Action verbs such as “achieved,” “implemented,” “led,” “optimized,” or “initiated” add power and dynamism to your resume.
These verbs convey a sense of proactivity and accomplishment, capturing the attention of readers.
Next, focus on quantifying your achievements wherever possible. Rather than simply listing responsibilities, quantify the impact of your work by including specific numbers, percentages, or other measurable outcomes.
For example, instead of saying you “increased sales,” specify that you “increased sales by 20% in six months.” This provides tangible evidence of your contributions and demonstrates your ability to deliver results.
Highlighting quantifiable achievements helps employers understand the value you can bring to their organization.
Whether it’s improving efficiency, increasing revenue, reducing costs, or driving customer satisfaction, emphasizing quantifiable outcomes showcases your ability to make a measurable impact.
Remember to tailor your action verbs and quantifiable achievements to each specific job application.
Review the job description and identify the desired skills and accomplishments, then reflect those in your resume using appropriate action verbs and relevant quantifiable results.
By utilizing action verbs and incorporating quantifiable achievements, you bring your accomplishments to life and make a compelling case for your qualifications.
This not only captures the attention of readers but also helps ATS systems recognize your achievements, increasing your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.
8. Keep your resume simple and Easy to read
Maintaining a simple and easy-to-read format is crucial for ensuring that your resume is effectively scanned by Applicant Tracking Systems and engaging for hiring managers.
By following a clean and organized structure, you enhance readability and make it easier for readers to grasp your qualifications and accomplishments.
Start by using a clean and professional resume template. Avoid overly complex or decorative designs that may distract from the content.
Stick to a clear and consistent layout, with sections clearly labeled and formatted. Use standard fonts, such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, in a legible font size between 10 and 12 points.
Organize your resume with logical sections, including a professional summary, work experience, education, and skills.
Use headings and subheadings to create a hierarchy and guide the reader’s attention. Clearly separate each section with proper spacing or dividers to enhance visual clarity.
Use bullet points to present information, making it easier for both ATS and human reviewers to scan. Start each bullet point with concise and impactful statements, focusing on key achievements and responsibilities.
Avoid lengthy paragraphs and instead use short, succinct bullet points to convey information efficiently.
Maintain consistency in formatting throughout your resume. Use consistent spacing, indentation, and alignment to create a cohesive and professional look.
Ensure that the font styles, sizes, and formatting choices remain uniform across sections.
Proofread your resume carefully to eliminate spelling and grammatical errors. These errors can detract from the professionalism of your document and create a negative impression.
Take the time to review your resume multiple times or ask someone else to proofread it for you.
By keeping your resume simple and easy to read, you enhance its accessibility and make it more appealing to both ATS and human reviewers.
A well-structured and visually clear resume increases the chances of your qualifications being effectively communicated and understood, ultimately improving your prospects of securing interviews and advancing in the hiring process.
9. Avoid graphics and fancy formatting
When it comes to creating an effective resume that is compatible with ATS and easy for hiring managers to review, it is important to steer clear of graphics and fancy formatting.
While visually appealing, these elements can often cause issues with parsing and readability, potentially hindering your chances of advancing in the hiring process.
ATS systems primarily focus on the textual content of your resume. They scan and analyze the text to extract relevant information.
Graphics, images, and complex formatting can confuse the system, leading to parsing errors and incomplete extraction of data.
To ensure your resume is properly processed by ATS, it is best to stick to a straightforward and text-based format.
Moreover, fancy formatting and excessive graphics may make your resume difficult to read for human reviewers as well.
Elaborate designs, colors, and excessive use of formatting can distract from the content and make it harder for hiring managers to quickly assess your qualifications.
Opting for a clean and simple layout allows the focus to remain on your skills, experience, and achievements.
Instead of relying on graphics or fancy formatting, prioritize the content and structure of your resume. Use clear headings, bullet points, and subheadings to organize information.
Focus on concise and impactful wording to highlight your accomplishments and responsibilities. This approach not only ensures compatibility with ATS but also facilitates easy scanning by human readers.
By avoiding graphics and fancy formatting, you create a resume that is ATS-friendly and user-friendly for hiring managers.
A clean and well-structured document maximizes the chances of your qualifications being accurately interpreted by both automated systems and human reviewers, increasing your chances of getting noticed and progressing in the hiring process.
10. Customize your cover letter
When applying for a job, it is essential to customize your cover letter to make a strong impression on hiring managers.
A well-crafted and personalized cover letter can greatly increase your chances of getting noticed and ultimately securing an interview.
Start by thoroughly researching the company and the specific job you are applying for. Gain a deep understanding of their values, goals, and requirements.
Use this knowledge to tailor your cover letter to align with the company’s needs and showcase how your skills and experiences make you a strong fit for the role.
Address the hiring manager by name whenever possible. This shows that you have taken the time to research and personalize your application.
If the name is not provided, make an effort to find the appropriate person to address your letter to.
In the opening paragraph, clearly state the position you are applying for and express your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Highlight one or two key reasons why you are interested in the position and the company. This helps to create a connection and demonstrate your genuine interest.
In the body of your cover letter, focus on highlighting specific achievements, experiences, and skills that are directly relevant to the job requirements.
Use concrete examples to showcase how your qualifications align with the company’s needs. Demonstrate your understanding of their challenges and explain how you can contribute to their success.
Close your cover letter with a strong and confident statement. Reiterate your interest in the position and express your enthusiasm to further discuss your qualifications in an interview.
Provide your contact information and thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration.
Remember to proofread your cover letter carefully to ensure it is free from any errors or typos. A well-written, customized cover letter demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.
By customizing your cover letter, you show a genuine interest in the position and the company, effectively communicate your qualifications, and stand out from other applicants.
It is an opportunity to make a compelling case for why you are the right candidate for the job.
11. Submit your resume in the right format
Submitting your resume in the correct format is crucial to ensure that it is compatible with ATS and easily accessible for hiring managers.
By following proper formatting guidelines, you can maximize the chances of your resume being read and considered.
The preferred file formats for submitting your resume are PDF and Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx). These formats are widely accepted and compatible with most ATS and hiring systems.
They preserve the formatting and ensure that your resume appears as intended to the recipients.
When saving your resume as a PDF, ensure that the file is not locked or password-protected. This allows the ATS and hiring managers to open and read the document easily.
Avoid submitting your resume in unconventional or proprietary file formats, as they may not be compatible with all systems and could lead to formatting errors or difficulties in opening the file.
Stick to widely recognized and accepted formats to ensure seamless processing and readability.
In addition to file format considerations, name your resume file in a professional and clear manner. Include your name and the position you are applying for to make it easily identifiable.
For example, “JohnSmith_Resume_ProjectManager.pdf” provides a clear indication of the file’s content.
If a specific file format is requested in the job posting or application instructions, follow those guidelines accordingly.
Some employers may have specific preferences or requirements, such as using an online form or submitting documents through their applicant portal.
Adhering to these instructions demonstrates your attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
By submitting your resume in the right format, you ensure that it can be easily processed by ATS systems and accessed by hiring managers.
Following proper formatting guidelines increases the chances of your qualifications being effectively evaluated, ultimately improving your prospects of progressing in the hiring process.
12. Network and leverage referrals
Networking and leveraging referrals can significantly enhance your job search efforts and increase your chances of landing interviews.
By proactively building professional relationships and seeking out referrals, you tap into valuable connections that can provide insights, recommendations, and direct access to job opportunities.
Start by expanding your professional network through various channels, such as industry events, conferences, online platforms, and professional associations.
Engage in conversations, attend networking events, and connect with individuals who work in your target industry or company. Building genuine relationships and maintaining a strong network can lead to valuable referrals down the line.
Inform your network about your job search intentions and the type of opportunities you are seeking. Be clear about your skills, experience, and career goals.
This will make it easier for your contacts to identify potential job openings or refer you to relevant connections within their own networks.
Leverage referrals by reaching out to individuals who can vouch for your qualifications and provide recommendations. These can include former colleagues, supervisors, mentors, or industry professionals who are familiar with your work.
Ask if they would be willing to refer you to any open positions or introduce you to hiring managers. A referral can greatly increase your chances of getting noticed and considered for a job, as it carries the weight of a trusted recommendation.
Utilize online professional platforms, such as LinkedIn, to expand your network and leverage referrals. Connect with professionals in your field, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions.
Engage in meaningful conversations, share your expertise, and build relationships with individuals who can potentially refer you to job opportunities.
Remember to express gratitude and follow up with your contacts who provide referrals or assistance. Maintain strong relationships by offering support and assistance when needed, and keep them updated on your job search progress.
By networking and leveraging referrals, you tap into a valuable resource that can provide insider information, job leads, and a direct connection to hiring managers.
Building a strong network and seeking referrals demonstrate your proactive approach to job searching and significantly increase your chances of uncovering hidden opportunities and securing interviews.
13. Research and understand company culture
When applying for a job, it’s crucial to research and understand the company culture of the organizations you’re interested in.
Company culture plays a significant role in determining whether you’ll thrive and be satisfied in a particular work environment.
By taking the time to investigate and comprehend the company culture, you can tailor your application, demonstrate alignment with their values, and increase your chances of finding the right fit.
Start by exploring the company’s website, social media profiles, and online presence to gain insights into their mission, vision, and core values.
Look for any information or content that provides clues about the company’s culture, such as employee testimonials, blog posts, or videos showcasing company events or initiatives.
Pay attention to how they describe their culture and the values they prioritize.
Take advantage of professional networking platforms, such as LinkedIn, to connect with current or former employees of the company.
Reach out and ask about their experiences working there, the company culture, and any insights they can provide.
Their firsthand perspectives can offer valuable insights into the day-to-day dynamics, work-life balance, and overall employee experience within the organization.
Consider attending industry events, career fairs, or virtual meetups where representatives from the company may be present.
Engage in conversations and ask questions that delve into the company culture. This allows you to gather direct information and gain a better understanding of what it’s like to work for that organization.
During the interview process, take the opportunity to ask questions about the company culture. Inquire about team dynamics, collaboration styles, and the company’s approach to employee development and work-life balance.
This demonstrates your genuine interest and shows that you’re looking for a cultural fit.
Tailor your application materials, including your resume and cover letter, to reflect your understanding of the company culture.
Highlight experiences and skills that align with their values and emphasize your ability to thrive in that particular work environment.
This shows your dedication to finding a company where you can make a meaningful contribution and grow professionally.
By researching and understanding company culture, you can align yourself with organizations that share your values and foster an environment where you can thrive.
This not only increases your chances of finding job satisfaction but also enhances your ability to connect with potential employers who value cultural fit and are more likely to recognize and appreciate your contributions.
14. Seek professional resume assistance, if needed
If you find yourself struggling to create an impactful and effective resume, it can be beneficial to seek professional resume assistance.
Resume writing professionals have the expertise and knowledge to help you craft a resume that stands out and effectively communicates your qualifications.
Consider engaging the services of a professional resume writer or career coach who specializes in resume development.
They can provide valuable guidance on formatting, content organization, keyword optimization, and tailoring your resume to specific job opportunities. They can also offer insights on current industry trends and best practices.
Professional resume writers can help you identify and showcase your key strengths, accomplishments, and transferable skills in a compelling way.
They have experience in presenting your qualifications in a manner that captures the attention of both ATS and hiring managers. They can also provide objective feedback on your resume, ensuring it is polished and error-free.
If hiring a professional resume writer is not feasible, consider reaching out to your university’s career services center or local job search organizations.
These resources often offer resume writing workshops or one-on-one consultations to assist job seekers in creating effective resumes.
Remember that even with professional assistance, your involvement and active participation in the resume writing process are crucial.
Be prepared to provide information about your experiences, achievements, and career goals. Collaborate with the professional to ensure your resume accurately reflects your unique qualifications and presents you in the best possible light.
Ultimately, seeking professional resume assistance can provide you with the tools and guidance to create a standout resume that maximizes your chances of securing interviews and advancing in your job search.
It can give you the confidence and peace of mind knowing that your resume presents a strong and compelling case for your qualifications.
Conclusion
Now that you have 14 best practices when it comes to beating applicant tracking, you should know be able to land that dream job.
Take action today and you will win the ATS game.
Related reading: Top 10 applicant tracking systems
Jobscan helps you optimize your resume for any job, highlighting the key experience and skills recruiters need to see.