In today’s competitive job market, many employers rely on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline their hiring process. These systems scan and filter resumes before a human even looks at them. This means that if your resume isn’t optimised for ATS, your application might not make it past the initial screening stage, no matter how qualified you are.
Don’t worry—acing ATS isn’t as hard as it seems. With a few strategic tweaks, you can ensure your application stands out. Here’s how.
What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?
An ATS is a software tool that helps employers manage job applications. It scans resumes, looking for specific keywords, formatting, and criteria to determine which candidates are the best fit for a role. If your resume isn’t ATS-friendly, it may never reach the hiring manager’s desk.
How to Optimise Your Resume for ATS
Here are some practical tips to make sure your resume passes through ATS filters and grabs the attention of recruiters:
-
Use Keywords Wisely
- Why it matters: ATS systems search for specific keywords that match the job description.
-
What to do:
- Carefully read the job posting and identify key terms, such as skills, qualifications, and industry-specific jargon.
- Incorporate these keywords naturally into your resume, especially in your skills, experience, and summary sections.
-
Stick to Simple Formatting
- Why it matters: ATS struggles with complex layouts, graphics, and unusual fonts.
-
What to do:
- Use a clean, professional layout with standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman.
- Avoid tables, columns, and graphics that can confuse ATS.
-
Use Standard Headings
- Why it matters: ATS systems look for familiar headings to organise information.
-
What to do:
- Stick to standard headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.”
- Avoid creative alternatives like “My Journey” or “Stuff I’ve Done.”
-
Customise Your Resume for Each Job
- Why it matters: A generic resume might miss critical keywords that the ATS is scanning for.
-
What to do:
- Tailor your resume to each job posting by aligning it with the job’s requirements.
- Highlight relevant experiences and skills to match the employer’s needs.
-
Avoid Fancy File Types
- Why it matters: Some ATS systems struggle with certain file types.
-
What to do:
- Submit your resume in .docx or .pdf format, depending on the application instructions.
- Double-check that your PDF is text-readable, not an image.
-
Include Contact Information in the Header
- Why it matters: ATS sometimes ignores content in the header or footer.
-
What to do:
- Ensure your name, phone number, and email address are in the main body of your resume.
-
Don’t Overuse Abbreviations
- Why it matters: Some ATS systems may not recognise uncommon abbreviations.
-
What to do:
- Spell out terms fully (e.g., “Bachelor of Science” instead of “B.Sc.”), especially on the first mention.
How Wjobs Can Help You Ace ATS
At Wjobs, we understand the complexities of job applications and the importance of creating an ATS-optimised resume. Our services ensure that:
- Your resume is tailored to the job description and packed with the right keywords.
- We use clean, ATS-friendly formats that maximise your chances of being shortlisted.
- You don’t have to worry about tedious customisation—our experts handle everything for you.
By letting us manage your applications, you can focus on preparing for interviews and advancing your career.
Final Thoughts
Navigating ATS can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can overcome this hurdle and land your dream role. Remember to tailor your resume, use the right keywords, and keep your formatting simple. And if you want to save time and effort, let Wjobs handle the heavy lifting for you.