What is an ATS?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by employers to manage the recruiting and hiring process. When you apply for a job online, your resume likely goes into an ATS before a human ever sees it.
The ATS scans your resume for keywords, parses your experience, and scores your profile against the job description. If your resume isn't formatted correctly or lacks the right keywords, it may be automatically rejected.
5 Tips for an ATS-Friendly Resume
- Use standard section headings: Stick to "Work Experience", "Education", and "Skills". Don't use creative titles like "My Journey" or "What I Know".
- Avoid complex formatting: Tables, columns, and graphics can confuse the ATS parser. Stick to a simple, single-column layout or use a trusted ATS-optimized template.
- Include relevant keywords: Carefully read the job description and incorporate the exact keywords used. If they ask for "Customer Service", don't write "Client Relations".
- Save as PDF: Unless the job posting specifically asks for a Word document, save your resume as a PDF. It preserves your formatting and is widely accepted.
- No headers or footers: ATS systems often struggle to read information placed in the header or footer of a document. Put your contact info in the main body.
With HoSoViec, you can automatically generate a resume that is 100% ATS-friendly and tailored to any job description using our AI engine.