How To Create ATS Optimized Resume?

 

What are the benefits of using an ATS resume template?

ATS resume templates are made to function in conjunction with applicant tracking systems. If you’re using best practices and proper keywords on your resume, you may still fall short of the ATS’s requirements. These programs analyze the words in your resume and populate a profile with useful information. Tracking systems have trouble understanding where the important information is because of irregular formats or sophisticated designs, resulting in incorrect categorization. When this happens, individuals make mistakes with resumes and even throw them away, never to be viewed by a potential employer.

Some templates have been pre-formatted to work with applicant tracking systems. The group information into parts based on the most popular keywords, making it easier for the ATS to interpret the data as a whole.

 

What should an ATS resume template contain?

Consider a few of the probable flaws that confound tracking systems when looking for most ATS-compliant longer processes or creating your own. The following list provides further details into these problem areas:

 

Use the right file formats.

Avoid header and footer details.

Make use of proper keyword optimization.

Graphics should be avoided.

Use the right file formats.

While PDFs are excellent at preserving file data without compromising integrity, it’s not always best suited for ATS. There are many different kinds of tracking software, but not all of them accept PDFs. Make sure to check for a list of accepted file types before uploading a resume. If it doesn’t list PDF as a viable option, upload a .doc or .docx version of the file.

 

Avoid header and footer details

Not all tracking systems are capable of properly reading and comprehending things in the header and footer. Candidates frequently leave their contact information in these spaces. If an ATS doesn’t read this information, the ATS might lose your contact details and have nothing for the employer to go by. Place your name, phone number, and email address in other parts of your resume template to avoid this.

 

Make use of proper keyword optimization.

ATS scans for certain keywords set by the employer throughout the scanning process. Resumes that lack these keywords are frequently discarded. One of the best ways of determining what keywords you can use is to read the job description provided in the listing. Look for role-specific phrases that appear in the article several times. The more popular a keyword is, the more weight you should give it in your resume. Place these keywords throughout as necessary but avoid over-stuffing your resume with them.

 

Graphics should be avoided.

ATS cannot read images, charts, and other graphics. Some candidates exhibit their skill levels in certain areas by showing them within charts. The only way an ATS captures that information is if it also appears written within another section. When choosing or creating an ATS resume template, avoid these as much as necessary.

What is an ATS resume template and how do I make one?

As long as you’re familiar with the software, creating an ATS resume template is an easy task. Knowing what those systems are looking for and how they interpret that data will help you prepare for submission. The following steps break down the process:

 

Applicant tracking systems should be understood.

Select the appropriate keywords.

Use simple layouts or designs.

Make use of specific information.

 

1. Be familiar with application tracking systems.

The first and most crucial step is to learn everything there is to know about applicant tracking systems and how they work. While they often make the application process easier by selecting important information from your resume, they’re also used in finding the best candidates for employers. This cuts a significant amount of time from their day as they only have the best resumes in front of them.

 

2. Select appropriate terms

Once you have a full understanding of these systems, proper keyword usage becomes clear. These systems scan papers for assigned keywords and discard those that have the fewest. Use a lot of industry or role-specific jargon, and study the job description thoroughly for additional phrases. With the right keywords, you may put your resume at the top of the pile without overcrowding it.

 

3. Use simple layouts or designs

Some companies prefer resumes with personality and character, depending on the business. It gives them more information about each prospect. Some resumes and resume templates, on the other hand, have jarring designs that result in disorganized layouts. ATS is unable to read complex layouts. If it attempts to, chances are high that it chooses the wrong information for employers or downgrades the resume altogether, potentially removing it.

 

4. Include precise information.

Use specifics when explaining previous roles and duties as well as in your objective, if necessary. Even within the same field, several positions exist, and employers search for different keywords. Examine every job advertisement carefully and tweak your CV to make it the best candidate for each opportunity.

 

Tailoring your resume with the right keywords and creating a simple, parseable format are the most important steps to beating ATS. An optimized ATS resume keeps your application in the running for longer and boosts your chances of getting an interview.