What is an ATS?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software that companies use to manage job applications. It scans, parses, and ranks resumes based on keywords, formatting, and relevance to the job description.
ATS Statistics You Need to Know
How ATS Systems Work
Understanding how ATS works helps you optimize effectively. Here's the typical process:
Key Insight
ATS systems are only as good as their programming. They can't understand context, synonyms, or creative formatting. Your job is to make your resume as easy to parse as possible.
Formatting Tips (1-5)
Proper formatting is the foundation of an ATS-friendly resume. Get this wrong, and your content won't even be read correctly.
Use a Simple, Clean Format
ATS systems struggle with complex layouts. Stick to a single-column format with clear section headings.
- • Single column layout
- • Standard section headings
- • Consistent formatting
- • Left-aligned text
- • Multiple columns
- • Tables or text boxes
- • Headers/footers for key info
- • Creative layouts
Choose ATS-Friendly Fonts
Some fonts don't render properly in ATS systems. Use standard, professional fonts.
- • Arial
- • Calibri
- • Georgia
- • Times New Roman
- • Helvetica
- • Decorative fonts
- • Script fonts
- • Custom fonts
- • Very thin fonts
Save in the Right File Format
Most ATS systems prefer .docx or .pdf files. Always check the job posting for specific requirements.
- • .docx (most compatible)
- • .pdf (if specified)
- • Simple file names
- • No special characters in filename
- • .pages files
- • .jpg or image files
- • Spaces in filenames
- • Very long filenames
Use Standard Section Headings
ATS systems look for specific section headers to categorize your information correctly.
- • Work Experience
- • Education
- • Skills
- • Professional Summary
- • Certifications
- • My Journey
- • What I've Done
- • The Goods
- • Career Narrative
- • Creative headers
Avoid Graphics and Images
ATS cannot read images, icons, or graphics. All important information must be in text form.
- • Text-only content
- • Bullet points (•)
- • Simple lines for dividers
- • Standard characters
- • Photos or headshots
- • Icons for contact info
- • Logos
- • Charts or graphs
- • Skill bars
Keyword Optimization (6-10)
Keywords are the heart of ATS optimization. The right keywords can dramatically increase your chances of passing the initial screening.
Mirror the Job Description
ATS systems match your resume against the job posting. Use the exact phrases from the job description.
Experience with data analysis and visualization tools
Worked with numbers and made charts
Performed data analysis using visualization tools including Tableau and Power BI
Include Both Acronyms and Full Terms
Different ATS systems search differently. Include both versions to maximize matches.
Use Industry-Standard Job Titles
If your actual title was unique, add a standard equivalent in parentheses.
Add a Skills Section
A dedicated skills section makes it easy for ATS to identify your qualifications quickly.
Optimize for Hard Skills First
ATS systems prioritize hard skills (technical abilities) over soft skills (personality traits).
- • Programming languages
- • Software proficiency
- • Data analysis
- • Project management tools
- • Industry certifications
- • Communication
- • Leadership
- • Problem-solving
- • Teamwork
- • Adaptability
Content Tips (11-15)
Once your formatting and keywords are optimized, focus on making your content compelling for both ATS and human reviewers.
Quantify Your Achievements
Numbers stand out to both ATS and human reviewers. Include metrics wherever possible.
Improved sales performance
Increased quarterly sales by 35% ($2.1M) through implementation of new CRM workflow
Use Action Verbs
Start each bullet point with a strong action verb. ATS systems recognize these as indicators of accomplishments.
Include Relevant Dates
ATS systems use dates to calculate experience levels. Use a consistent date format.
Month Year – Month Year (e.g., January 2023 – Present)
Avoid gaps if possible. If you have gaps, be prepared to explain them in interviews.
Tailor for Each Application
Generic resumes score lower. Customize your resume for each job by adjusting keywords and emphasis.
Keep It Concise
ATS systems have parsing limits. Stick to 1-2 pages with the most relevant information.
How to Test Your Resume
Before submitting, test your resume to ensure it's ATS-friendly. Here are some methods:
Free ATS Testing Tools
DIY Test: Copy-Paste Method
Copy your resume text and paste it into a plain text editor (Notepad). If the formatting is scrambled or information is missing, ATS will have the same problems parsing it.