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6 resume hacks to pass the ATS test

Employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATSs) to scan job application documents of candidates, including resumes and cover letters, to weed out job seekers. The ATS is programmed by the employer to look for a certain set of key elements on resumes that often include keywords, design and layout, length, and salary requirements. If your resume does not meet the requirements of the ATS, you will not get called for an interview by the company.

Did you know that 98% of Fortune 500 companies use an ATS to sort through job applications? If you don’t understand how to create an ATS-compliant resume, your job search will become a chore really soon. Here’s what you can do to write an ATS-friendly resume.

1. Identify the right keywords

The first thing you should do before writing your resume? Review the job description. Highlight the keywords that you notice. These can be things such as years of experience, job skills, familiarity with different software, experience in certain tasks, location, etc. After you have identified the keywords, you can start incorporating those into your resume. Tailoring your resume to the job description is vital to pass the ATS test.

2. Use the file format requested by the employer

Some ATSs cannot parse PDF documents. The employer will state their requirements for sending in a job application on the job advertisement. Adhere to the file format they request. In a case where a particular file format is not specified, it is always safe to send your resume as a word document.

3. Remove your photographs from the resume

Adding a headshot to your resume was a trend that ended several years ago. Current resume trends are different. ATSs cannot parse images. Instead of wasting valuable resume space on a photograph that may even end up getting the employer discriminating against you, use that space to mention a vital piece of information. Ensure that your LinkedIn profile has a professional photograph. Most employers will use social media to screen you during the hiring process.

4. Overused jargon is a big “No-No” on your resume

Jargon and buzzwords don’t impress the ATS or the hiring manager. Avoid clichéd phrases such as "self-starter" or "attention to detail" on your resume. Rather than such phrases, original sentences that describe your unique achievements impress recruiters more.

5. Avoid using fancy graphic designs on the resume

Sadly, graphics are not ATS-friendly most of the time. Instead of using graphics to highlight stuff on your resume, use formatting tricks that are compatible with ATSs. For example, you can use bulleted lists to highlight achievements. Bold text and distinct fonts also help things stand out. However, don’t make your resume too bland for a human reader while optimizing it for the ATS. A pop of color and a small design element will make your resume a more compelling read.

6. Age-proof your resume

Don’t let the resume age discriminate against you. You can create a new email address for yourself if you are still using an outdated AOL or Hotmail. Use your first and last names for the email address. Remove graduation dates, or years, from your education section. If you have irrelevant or outdated educational qualifications, omit those from the resume as well. Also, avoid mentioning jobs that are older than 15 years.