Applicant Tracking System Software (or ATS) is the software that reads your resume when you apply for a job online. The telltale sign ATS is at play is when you upload your resume, and it instantly reformats it into what I affectionately term gobbeldy-gook.
If not formatted properly, crucial components of your resume may get lost in translation. Avoid this by creating a Plain Text (.txt) document to upload instead that incorporates these six key considerations:
#1 ATS-recognizable Headlines
ATS often only recognizes basic headings. Play it safe and stick with traditional ones like Profile, Education, Experience, Certifications and Awards.
#2 Full Years
ATS won’t read ’13 correctly… write 2013 to make sure ATS understands how long you spent in each role.
#3 Turn Lists into Sentences
ATS often can’t read a table. If you have a skills or core competencies section use the word “includes” and then list the skills in a sentence.
#4 Order Matters
To maximize the chances of ATS reading your role correctly, list the company name first, then title and dates. Here’s an example:
ABC Corporation
HR Manager
Jan 2012–Jan 2013
#5 Chronological Formatting
If your resume is written in a functional format chances are ATS will miss big chunks of it. Use a chronological format with responsibilities and achievements below each job to ensure your accomplishments get read.
#6 Same Company but Multiple Jobs?
ATS is often programmed to only recognize a job description when found below a company name. When you’ve held several roles with the same company list the company name each and every time.
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