An ATS-friendly resume is designed to be easily read and processed by Applicant Tracking Systems. These systems evaluate resumes based on relevance, often scanning for key criteria outlined in job descriptions. Resumes that don’t meet the ATS’s standards are filed away, while those that check all the boxes move forward in the hiring process.
By having an ATS-friendly resume, you maximize your opportunity to stand out in competitive job markets, including remote roles and startup positions that receive hundreds of applications.
To outperform ATS filters and algorithms, your resume needs to meet these criteria.
ATS scans resumes for specific keywords from job descriptions. For example, if a posting mentions “project management” and “data analysis,” make sure these terms naturally appear in your resume.
Save your resume in commonly accepted formats such as .docx or text-based .pdf to ensure the ATS can process it.
Organize your resume logically to assist ATS parsing:
ATS systems may struggle to interpret symbols, emojis, or unconventional punctuation. Stick to traditional characters and bullet styles.
An ATS-friendly resume ensures that your application reaches the right hands. Here’s why it’s critical:
Even strong resumes can get rejected if they don’t comply with ATS requirements. Be sure to sidestep these pitfalls:
Creating an ATS-friendly resume doesn’t have to be daunting. Follow these actionable tips to optimize your application and improve your chances of landing an interview.
Adjust your resume to reflect the specific requirements and keywords of every job posting. Customization shows employers you understand their needs and makes your resume more likely to pass the ATS scan.
Demonstrate your impact by using strong action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” and “initiated.” Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible (e.g., “increased sales by 20%” or “reduced project costs by 15%).
Some ATS systems may not recognize acronyms alone. Include both the full term and the acronym (e.g., “Search Engine Optimization (SEO)”) to maximize recognition.
A resume should typically be one or two pages—no longer. Prioritize relevant experience and skills to keep it concise and focused.
Run your resume through an online ATS checker before submitting it. Tools like Jobscan or Resumake can help you identify areas for improvement and ensure it’s optimized for the specific job post.
Results-driven marketing professional with 5+ years of experience in digital marketing, campaign strategies, and analytics. Adept at implementing data-driven approaches to increase ROI and enhance customer engagement.
Digital Marketing Manager
XYZ Corp | Jan 2018 – Present
Bachelor of Science in Marketing
ABC University | Graduated 2017
An ATS-friendly resume isn’t just about looking good on paper. It’s a tool that aligns your skills and expertise with what employers are looking for—while navigating modern hiring processes and tools. By ensuring your resume meets ATS standards, you make it easier for recruiters to notice your qualifications.
Start customizing your resume today—and land that dream job faster.