Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Resume Guide

What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software that streamlines the recruitment process by managing job applications and candidate information. It scans and analyzes resumes for specific keywords, qualifications, and experiences that align with the job requirements set by employers. The ATS then ranks and sorts candidates, placing the most promising ones at the top of the list.

Why Companies Use ATS

Companies use ATS to manage the overwhelming number of applications received for a single job posting. It saves time for hiring managers and standardizes the hiring process, reducing unconscious bias and providing valuable data and analytics on hiring processes.

How the ATS Works

The ATS operates by scanning resumes and dividing the text into sections, actively looking for specific keywords and qualifications. It matches these against the job requirements, ranking resumes based on their relevance.

What Is an ATS Resume?

An ATS resume is optimized for easy scanning by ATS software. It presents information in a simple format with standard section headings, includes relevant keywords from the job description, and focuses on important qualifications without using confusing formatting or graphics.

How to Create an ATS Resume

To create an ATS resume, follow these steps:

1. Pick the Right Resume Format: The reverse-chronological format is recommended as it highlights recent work experience and is expected by ATS and hiring managers.
2. Adjust the Layout: Ensure proper margins, line spacing, professional fonts, and font sizes. Use bullet points and avoid graphics.
3. Label Your Sections Correctly: Use standard section headings to avoid confusion and ensure the ATS can categorize your information correctly.
4. Tailor Your Resume with Keywords: Read the job description to find relevant keywords and incorporate them naturally throughout your resume.
5. Stick to One Page: A one-page resume is generally preferred for ATS and human reviewers.
6. Choose the Appropriate File Type: PDFs are the most common file type, but check the job ad for any specific requirements.
7. Include a Cover Letter: A cover letter can boost your ATS score and provide additional context for your qualifications.

Running an ATS Check on Your Resume

To ensure your resume is ATS-optimized, use a tool like ChatGPT to perform an ATS check. Upload your resume and the job ad, and ask for an approximate ATS score and suggested changes.

ATS Resume Templates for 2025

Select from a variety of ATS-friendly resume templates, including general, tech, functional, simple, executive, traditional, minimalist, basic, creative, and modern templates.

FAQs on ATS Resumes

• Photos in Resumes: ATS does not reject resumes with photos, but they may waste space and are ignored by the ATS.
• Reasons for Rejection: Common issues include missing keywords, formatting problems, unusual section headings, and file type issues.
• Reading PDFs: Most modern ATS can read PDFs, but check the job ad for any specific file format requirements.
• Reading Graphics: ATS generally do not process graphics, so stick to a simple text-based format.

Key Takeaways

• Use a reverse-chronological resume format and keep your design simple for ATS compatibility.
• Keywords are crucial for ATS ranking, but ensure they are incorporated naturally to avoid keyword stuffing.
• Write an ATS-optimized cover letter to increase your chances of getting an interview.