6 Essential Tips for Creating a Resume Compatible, with ATS That Gets Chosen
RESUME TIPS
11/23/20252 min read
In today’s job market your resume needs to pass an essential first hurdle: the Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Than 90% of companies utilize ATS software to evaluate, filter and narrow down resumes before a recruiter ever examines them.
If your CV fails to meet ATS criteria it could be rejected, even if you have the qualifications.This article offers 6 tips, for creating an ATS- resume that gets selected increasing your chances of landing interviews.
1. Use a Clean and Simple Resume Format
ATS software functions best, with text. Complex layouts might disrupt the formatting. Resulting in loss of information.
Best practices:
* Use simple fonts like Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman
* Maintain font size 11-12
Avoid tables, icons, columns, shapes, and text boxes
Use consistent headings such as Summary, Skills, Experience, and Education
A structured format enables the ATS to correctly analyze your resume.
2. Add Job-Specific Keywords
ATS filters resumes by aligning keywords in the job description. If your resume does not contain these keywords it will be excluded from recruiter searches.
Where to add keywords:
* Professional summary
* Skills section
* Work experience bullet points
* Certifications and tools
Example keywords for common roles:
* Business Analyst: SQL, Data Analysis, Tableau, Reports
* HR Executive: Recruitment, Onboarding, HRMS, Payroll
* Accountant: Tally, GST, MIS, Bookkeeping
Knowing the relevant keywords immediately helps your ATS score.
3.Use Standard Resume Headings
ATS tools detect section headers. Unique or creative headings might be overlooked.
Use these common headings:
* Professional Summary
* core competencies
* Work Experience
* Education
* Certifications
* Projects
* Key Achievements
This ensures that each essential detail is reviewed and addressed.
4. Use File Format Supported by ATS
Some file formats could disrupt the structure of your resume when it is scanned.
Best file formats:
* PDF is compatible, with the majority of ATS systems.
* DOCX(universally supported)
Avoid: JPG, PNG, heavy templates.
Always adhere to the employers instructions; some ATS prefer DOCX, over PDF.
5. Optimize Your Resume for Both ATS & Recruiters
Even if your resume passes the ATS it still needs to engage a recruiter.
Tips to optimize:
* Use bullet points instead of long paragraphs
* Emphasize quantifiable achievements (Improved sales by 20%, Reduced errors by 30%)
* Use strong action verbs like Implemented, Managed, Designed, Analyzed
* Keep the length 1-2 pages
A resume highlighting achievements grabs notice.
6. Avoid Keyword Stuffing
Incorporating keywords is essential. However overusing them may reduce readability. Lower your ranking.
Add keywords naturally:
* In sentences
* In project descriptions
* In professional settings