What is an applicant tracking system?
An applicant tracking system, commonly called an ATS, is software organizations can use to manage job applications and candidate information.
Depending on the system and the employer's workflow, information from a resume may be extracted and organized so recruiters can review, search or filter applications.
This is one reason why clear resume structure matters. Consistent headings, readable text and straightforward formatting can make your resume easier for both software and people to interpret.
There is no universal ATS format that guarantees a resume will pass every screening process. Hiring systems and employer workflows vary.
How to make your resume ATS-friendly
A practical starting point is to make your resume easy to understand. Use recognizable section names and keep the structure consistent from beginning to end.
Use clear section headings
Headings such as Experience, Education, Skills and Certifications clearly describe the information that follows.
Keep formatting consistent
Use consistent dates, spacing, typography and hierarchy throughout your resume.
Make text easy to read
Choose readable font sizes and maintain enough contrast between text and background.
Focus on relevant information
Prioritize experience, skills and achievements that are relevant to the position you're applying for.
Match your resume to the job.
Job descriptions often contain specific skills, tools, qualifications and responsibilities. When those requirements genuinely match your experience, use accurate terminology in your resume.
Looking for a project coordinator with experience in project planning, stakeholder communication and Excel.
Coordinated project planning and stakeholder communication while using Excel to track schedules and project status.
Include keywords only when they accurately describe your skills and experience. Your resume still needs to read naturally to a person.
Keep unnecessary complexity out.
Creative labels may make it harder to understand where important information is located.
Keep employment and education dates formatted consistently.
Design should support your information, not make it difficult to find.
A resume should reflect the requirements of the role instead of using the same content for every application.
