How to optimize your resume for ATS to land more interviews

If you’ve ever applied for a job online and didn’t hear back, chances are an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) filtered out your resume before a human even saw it. Companies use ATS software to scan and sort resumes, but many job seekers don’t realize how these systems work. The good news? You can beat the ATS by tailoring your resume to get through the filters and into the hands of hiring managers.

Here’s how to optimize your resume for ATS and increase your chances of landing an interview.

1. Use ATS-friendly keywords

ATS software scans resumes for keywords that match the job description. Here’s how to ensure your resume includes the right ones:

• Analyze job postings: Copy and paste job descriptions into a word cloud tool (like WordClouds.com) to see which words appear most frequently.

• Use industry-specific terminology: If a job listing mentions "project management software" or "data analytics tools," include those exact phrases.

• Incorporate both acronyms and full terms: Some ATS systems recognize “SEO” but not "Search Engine Optimization," so use both.

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2. Format your resume correctly

Many ATS systems struggle to read complex formatting. Stick to these best practices:

• Use standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri.

• Avoid images, graphics, and text boxes — they can confuse the ATS.

• Use simple headings such as "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills."

• Submit as a Word document or plain-text file, unless the job listing specifies PDF.

3. Structure your resume for readability

A well-structured resume helps both ATS software and hiring managers:

• Put your name and contact details at the top, but not in the header, which some ATS can’t read.

• Use bullet points instead of paragraphs for easier scanning.

• List work experience in reverse chronological order with company names, job titles, and dates of employment clearly defined.

4. Optimize your skills section

The skills section is crucial for ATS optimization:

• Use exact phrasing from the job posting (e.g., "Microsoft Excel" instead of just "Excel").

• Include both hard and soft skills (e.g., "team leadership," "data visualization").

• Avoid fluff words like "go-getter" and "team player" unless specified in the job listing.

5. Tailor your resume for each job application

A one-size-fits-all resume won’t work. Instead:

• Customize each resume by tweaking keywords to match different job descriptions.

• Highlight relevant experience that aligns with the job requirements.

• Save different versions of your resume for different types of roles.

6. Test your resume before submitting

Want to check if your resume is ATS-friendly? Try these methods:

• Use online ATS checkers like Jobscan or ResumeWorded.

• Convert your resume to plain text using Notepad on Windows or TextEdit on Mac to see if the formatting remains intact.

• Ask a recruiter or hiring manager for feedback.

7. Include important details missing from ATS filters

While ATS software helps recruiters sort resumes, some valuable details may not be captured. Ensure your resume includes:

• Quantifiable achievements (e.g., "Increased sales by 30% in six months").

• Certifications and additional training to demonstrate expertise.

• Relevant links (e.g., LinkedIn profile, portfolio) in a text format that’s easy to copy.

8. Use AI tools to optimize your resume

AI-powered resume tools can analyze job descriptions, suggest improvements, and ensure your resume is ATS-friendly. Here’s how AI can help:

• Keyword optimization: AI tools like Jobscan, Resume Worded, and Teal analyze job postings and suggest missing keywords.

• Resume formatting checks: AI can flag formatting issues that could confuse an ATS, such as tables, graphics, or unreadable fonts.

• Bullet point enhancements: AI-powered writing assistants (e.g., Grammarly, ChatGPT) can improve clarity, grammar, and impact.

• Tailored resume suggestions: Some AI tools generate multiple resume versions tailored for different job applications.

ATS is about strategy

Beating the ATS is about strategy, not luck. By optimizing your resume with the right keywords, formatting it for readability, and testing it before submission, you can improve your chances of getting noticed by employers.

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.

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