How to Beat Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): A Complete Guide

Did you know that over 75% of resumes are rejected by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) before they require a human eye? These automated systems are designed to screen candidates, but they can be a barrier for qualified applicants.

What is an ATS?

An Applicant Tracking System is software used by employers to collect, sort, scan, and rank job applications.

How to Optimize for ATS

1. Use Standard Headings

ATS software looks for specific headings to organize your information.

• Good: "Work Experience", "Education", "Skills"
• Bad: "My Journey", "Knowledge Base", "Where I've Been"

2. Incorporate Keywords

Analyze the job description to identify key skills. Include these keywords naturally throughout your resume.

3. Keep Formatting Simple

Complex layouts confuse ATS parsers.

AVOID:
- Tables
- Graphics / Logos
- Columns (sometimes okay, but risky)
- Headers/Footers for contact info

4. Choose the Right File Format

Unless otherwise specified, a Word document (.docx) or a PDF is usually standard. Always check the application instructions.

5. Spell Out Acronyms

Don't assume the ATS knows every acronym.

• "Search Engine Optimization (SEO)" implies both keywords.

The Human Factor

While optimizing for ATS is crucial, remember that a human will eventually read your resume. Write for people, not just robots.

Pro Tip: Our resume builder is built with ATS compatibility in mind. Choose from our ATS-friendly templates to give yourself the best chance of success.