How to Write a Resume for ATS

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software used by employers to scan and rank resumes. If your resume isn't optimized for ATS, it might never be seen by a human recruiter.

What is an ATS?

ATS stands for Applicant Tracking System. It helps companies organize candidates for hiring and recruitment purposes. These systems allow businesses to collect information, organize prospects based on experience and skill set, and filter applicants.

Tips for ATS Optimization

Use Standard Formatting: Stick to standard resume sections like "Experience," "Education," and "Skills." Creative headings can confuse the parser.
Keywords are King: Analyze the job description and include relevant keywords naturally in your resume.
Avoid Graphics and Columns: Some older ATS software has trouble reading multi-column layouts or text inside images/tables.
Save as PDF or DOCX: These are the most standard formats.

Conclusion

By following these simple rules, you can significantly increase your chances of passing the initial automated screening and landing an interview.