In today’s job market, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) play a crucial role in the hiring process. These systems help employers manage large volumes of applications by storing applications and, in many cases, extracting information from submitted resumes. Parsing and screening behavior varies by system and employer. These tips address readability and common parsing problems. No resume builder or format can guarantee a screening result.

1. Use a Clean and Simple Layout

ATS software often struggles with complex layouts, graphics, and unusual fonts. A clean, simple resume layout increases the likelihood that your resume will be accurately parsed.

Actionable Tips:

  • Stick to Standard Formats: Use traditional resume sections like "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills."
  • Avoid Tables and Columns: These can confuse ATS systems. Instead, use standard single-column formats.
  • Choose Readable Fonts: Opt for common fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri in a readable size (10-12 pt).

2. Incorporate Relevant Keywords

Some hiring systems support keyword searches or screening rules. Use terminology from the job description when it accurately describes your work; avoid keyword stuffing or claiming skills you do not have.

Actionable Tips:

  • Analyze Job Descriptions: Identify frequently mentioned skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
  • Use Exact Phrases: Incorporate the exact terminology used in the job posting.
  • Include Variations: Use both acronyms and spelled-out versions of terms (e.g., "Search Engine Optimization (SEO)").

3. Optimize Section Headings

Using standard section headings helps ATS systems recognize and categorize your information correctly.

Actionable Tips:

  • Use Common Headings: Titles like "Professional Experience," "Education," and "Skills" are easily recognized.
  • Avoid Creative Titles: Instead of "What I Do," use "Professional Experience."

4. Prioritize Relevant Information

Ensure that the most relevant information is easily accessible and prominently featured in your resume.

Actionable Tips:

  • Lead with Strong Sections: Place "Skills" or "Professional Summary" near the top if they contain essential keywords.
  • Detail Relevant Experience: Focus on roles and achievements that align closely with the job you're applying for.

5. Utilize Bullet Points for Clarity

Bullet points enhance readability and help ATS systems parse your accomplishments effectively.

Actionable Tips:

  • Be Concise: Use short, impactful statements to describe your responsibilities and achievements.
  • Start with Action Verbs: Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb (e.g., "Managed," "Developed," "Implemented").

6. Save in the Right Format

While online resumes are typically in HTML or hosted on platforms like ResumeURLs, if you need to download a version, choose an ATS-friendly format.

Actionable Tips:

  • Use Word Documents: If submitting a file, follow the employer’s requested format. Greenhouse accepts PDF and DOCX among other formats; there is no universal rule that Word is always better.
  • Check Compatibility: Ensure that any downloaded versions maintain the simple formatting required by ATS.

7. Avoid Graphics and Images

Text embedded in images may not be extracted correctly. Keep essential information as selectable text and check the application’s parsed fields.

Actionable Tips:

  • Focus on Text: Keep your resume text-based to ensure all information is readable by ATS.
  • Use Text-Based Contact Information: Include your contact details in plain text rather than embedding them in images.

How ResumeURLs Helps You Prepare an Application

ResumeURLs keeps your professional information in a text-based website and a downloadable PDF. It does not score your resume against a job description, suggest keywords or certify ATS compatibility. Use truthful terminology from your experience, then check the application form’s requirements.

A link is useful for a person opening your profile, but an applicant tracking system may require a file upload. Upload the requested document, review any fields filled by the parser, and correct mistakes before submitting. Do not use an image-only scan as your resume.

Before you submit

Follow the employer’s instructions, check that the text in your PDF is selectable, and review any fields filled automatically after uploading. ResumeURLs provides a website and matching PDF; it does not certify ATS compatibility or guarantee interviews.

Sources checked for this update

Put your resume online

Create your free resume website or see the live example. For file-upload applications, download the matching PDF and follow the employer’s instructions.