How to Optimize Your Resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Blog Description:

Did you know that 75% of resumes never reach a human recruiter because they get filtered out by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)? If your resume isn’t optimized for ATS, it might be getting rejected before hiring managers even see it. At Perfect Resume Service, we help job seekers create ATS-friendly resumes that pass through automated filters and get noticed by employers.

What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

An ATS is software used by companies to scan, filter, and rank resumes based on keywords, formatting, and relevance. If your resume lacks the right keywords or has formatting issues, it may never make it to the interview stage.

1. Use the Right Keywords

ATS scans resumes for specific job-related keywords to determine whether you’re a good match for the position.

✔ Solution: Carefully review the job description and incorporate relevant keywords naturally into your resume.
❌ Example (Weak): Experienced in project management.
✅ Example (Strong): Led cross-functional teams using Agile methodology to manage complex projects and meet strict deadlines.

2. Stick to a Simple Format

Fancy designs, graphics, and tables might look great to humans, but ATS systems struggle to read them.

✔ Solution: Use a clean, professional layout with standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.

3. Avoid Headers and Footers for Important Information

Many ATS programs can’t read text in headers or footers, which means your contact details could be ignored.

✔ Solution: Place your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile in the body of the document, not in headers or footers.

4. Use Standard Section Headings

Unconventional headings can confuse the ATS. For example, “My Work Journey” may not be recognized as “Work Experience.”

✔ Solution: Use common headings such as:
📌 Work Experience
📌 Education
📌 Skills
📌 Certifications

5. Submit the Right File Format

Some ATS systems struggle with PDFs, while others prefer Word documents.

✔ Solution: If the job posting doesn’t specify, submit your resume as a .docx (Microsoft Word) file, which is the safest option for ATS compatibility.

Get Your Resume ATS-Ready Today!

A great resume doesn’t just impress recruiters—it needs to pass ATS screening first. At Perfect Resume Service, our certified resume writers create ATS-optimized resumes that improve your chances of landing interviews.

📩 Want an ATS-friendly resume? Contact us today at clovisnel@gmail.com or visit perfectresumeservice.com to get started!