How to Write a Resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Employers have always been quick to judge resumes, this is nothing new. However, today, many resumes are not viewed by people, they are immediately filtered by Application Tracking Systems (ATS).

What is the application tracking system? ATS is a type of software employers use to filter resumes and decide who the strongest candidates are. An ATS scans a resume for keywords and decides if candidates have relevant skills and experience.

ATS systems save employers time by reducing the number of resumes that need to be manually scanned. Whether we like them or not, they will stay here.

The good news is that if you understand how an ATS works, it’s easy to create a resume using a resume builder that beats ATS and takes you to the interview stage.

How to write a resume for an Applicant Tracking System

If your resume contains keywords the employer is looking for, ATS will rank your resume at the top and your resume will be shortlisted. Keywords are different for every job, which means you have to tailor your resume for every job application.

Keywords include job-specific skills, qualifications, and work experience. Fortunately, the keywords an ATS is looking for are no secret. They are usually listed in the job posting.

Customizing your resume for each job application can be time consuming. Using a resume template is an effective way to make quick edits and create a professional looking resume. Knowing how to renew as an applicant tracking system is key, and you can do so by following the steps listed below.

Tips on how to beat an ATS and get a job interview

Writing a resume that isn’t filtered by an ATS recruitment system is simple as long as you follow these steps. It’s also important to remember that your resume will be read by someone after ATS scanned it. It’s important to write an ATS-friendly resume that is attention-grabbing, concise and accurate.

1) Identify the applicant tracking system keywords

Carefully read each job posting and highlight keywords. Focus on soft skills such as communication skills as well as hard skills. Think about what the employer is looking at and make a list of keywords. How do you write an ATS compliant on a resume?,#How do I know if my resume is ATS compatible?,#How do you optimize your resume for applicant tracking system?,#How do you pass applicant tracking system?,#How do you create a Applicant Tracking System?,#How do I check my resume score?,#What are hard skills?,#Can applicant tracking systems read pdfs?,#What is the purpose of ATS in resume?,#What is ATS resume template?,#Is Word or PDF better for ATS?,#Can I run my resume through ATS?,#How does Taleo applicant?,#What are the banned words in resume?,#How do I know if I have a good resume?,#How do you evaluate a CV?,#How do you create a applicant tracking system in Excel?,#What does an applicant tracking system do?,#What companies use ATS?

2) Work the keywords into your resume

Find a natural way to use the keywords you set in your resume. You can add them to your job descriptions, achievements and skills section. Make sure you use any industry-specific terminology used in the job posting.

3) Use the exact words and related words

It is important to include the keywords exactly as written in the job posting. You should also avoid repetition. If there is a skill or need that is clearly central to the job role, you should try and mention it more than once, but use synonyms as well as keywords.

4) Optimize your job roles

If a specific job title is mentioned in the job posting, try and add the same words. Don’t invent job titles as they’re not worth the risk. However, if you have held the position, write down the job title as in the job posting.

5) Include job dates

Do not forget about working dates, as some ATS systems measure the amount of experience you have. A chronological resume is an effective format for ATS as the amount of experience is clearly presented.

6) Don’t sacrifice readability

Don’t force keywords into your resume at the expense of readability. Once a person passes the ATS stage, they will look at your resume, so make sure it’s clear and concise. Read a guide on writing a resume to make sure your resume is ready from scratch.

7) Make sure your social media profiles are consistent with your resume

Some employers also use software to scan job candidates’ LinkedIn profiles and other social media profiles to check the consistency of information between their resume and social media. Make sure it is.