Creating an ATS ( ensures that your resume passes through automated screening processes and reaches human recruiters. Here are some tips on how to make your resume ATS-friendly:
1. Use a Simple Layout:
- Avoid complex designs: Stick to a clean, simple layout without graphics, tables, or images.
- Standard headings: Use common section headers like “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” and “Certifications.”
- Consistent formatting: Use consistent fonts (like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman) and font sizes.
2. Use Relevant Keywords:
- Job description keywords: Tailor your resume to include keywords and phrases from the job description.
- Industry-specific terms: Include relevant industry jargon and terms that are pertinent to the job you’re applying for.
3. Standard Section Headings:
- Professional Summary: A brief summary at the top of your resume.
- Work Experience: List your work history in reverse chronological order.
- Education: Detail your educational background.
- Skills: Highlight relevant skills.
- Certifications/Awards: Include relevant certifications and awards.
4. Work Experience Details:
- Job titles: Use standard job titles that match industry standards.
- Dates of employment: Use a consistent format, such as MM/YYYY.
- Bullet points: Use bullet points to outline responsibilities and achievements.
- Quantify achievements: Where possible, use numbers and metrics to demonstrate accomplishments.
5. Avoid Headers and Footers:
- ATS might not read information in headers or footers, so avoid placing important details in these sections.
6. File Format:
- Use Word documents (.doc or .docx): While PDFs are commonly used, some ATS may have difficulty reading them.
- Save as plain text: Ensure that your resume is saved as plain text to maintain formatting.
7. Avoid Special Characters and Graphics:
- Simple bullet points: Use simple bullet points like circles or squares.
- No charts or tables: ATS can struggle with complex elements like charts and tables.
8. Contact Information:
- Place at the top: Include your full name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable) at the top of your resume.
- Avoid multiple lines: Keep contact information in one line to ensure it’s easily read by the ATS.
9. Use Proper Spelling and Grammar:
- Spell check: Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors.
- Consistent terminology: Use the same terms consistently throughout your resume.
Sample ATS-Friendly Resume Template:
John Doe
123 Main Street, City, State, ZIP
(123) 456-7890 | john.doe@example.com | linkedin.com/in/johndoe
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented Project Manager with 5+ years of experience in managing complex projects in the IT industry. Proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget. Skilled in Agile methodologies, team leadership, and risk management.
Work Experience
Project Manager
ABC Company, City, State
January 2019 – Present
- Led cross-functional teams of up to 10 members to deliver 15+ IT projects.
- Achieved a 20% reduction in project costs through efficient resource management.
- Implemented Agile methodologies, increasing project delivery speed by 30%.
Assistant Project Manager
XYZ Corporation, City, State
June 2015 – December 2018
- Assisted in the management of IT projects with budgets up to $1M.
- Coordinated project schedules and communication between stakeholders.
- Developed project documentation, reducing project planning time by 15%.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of ABC, City, State
Graduated: May 2015
Skills
- Project Management
- Agile Methodologies
- Team Leadership
- Risk Management
- Budget Management
Certifications
- PMP Certification
- Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
By following these guidelines, you can create a resume that is more likely to pass through an ATS and reach the hands of a hiring manager.
