With everything going digital these days, recruiters also use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter relevant resumes and applications. So, the next time you’re applying for jobs online, it is important to know some key ATS resume tips.
So, the question that arises is: how does ATS find keywords in a resume? And what exactly is ATS?
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are the systems used to track and filter online job applications. By incorporating keywords, you can write a resume that easily gets past an ATS check and land on a recruiter’s desk. Here in this article, we’ll give you a breakdown on how to use the right keywords for your resume.
Finding the Right Keywords for Resume
To get your resume past the Applicant Tracking System, you can check out these pointers:
- Job description: Pay close attention to the skills, qualifications, and experience listed in the job description. These are key for resume optimisation.
- Synonyms and variations: While including the exact wording from the job description is ideal, the applicant tracking system may not recognise synonyms or plurals in your resume. Include variations of the keywords naturally throughout your resume.
Keywords for Resume Skills
Here is how you can strategically integrate vital keywords for your resume skills:
- Headline: Make a strong first impression by incorporating the job title or a relevant keyword phrase into your resume headline.
- Skills: Use keywords related to your skills and quantify your achievements with numbers or percentages whenever possible.
- Experience: Explain your work experience using action verbs and relevant keywords from the job description. Focus on achievements that show how you delivered results.
- Keywords integration: While including relevant keywords is important, don’t overdo it. Stuffing your resume with keywords can appear forced. Focus on a balanced and readable flow.
Bonus ATS Resume Tips
Here are a few bonus ATS resume tips which will help you further optimise your resume to get past Applicant Tracking System:
- Resume optimisation tools: You can also use online resume scanners or builder tools to help identify keyword gaps and optimise your resume for ATS.
- Avoid cheeky tricks: Don’t try to use outdated tactics like including a hidden keywords section or using white font for keywords. These tactics are ineffective and can get your resume flagged by the ATS.
By strategically incorporating keywords and following these ATS resume tips, you can prepare a strong resume that gets noticed by both the ATS and human recruiters, increasing your chances of landing that dream job.
Good luck!
FAQs on ATS Resume Tips
Q1. How to get your resume past ATS?
Ans: Beat the ATS algorithm by customising your resume with relevant keywords from the job description. Focus on skills, experience, and qualifications they mention. But don’t overdo it; keep it natural and readable.
Q2. How to use ATS for resume?
Ans: Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are used by companies to screen resumes. You can’t “use” them for your resume, but you can optimise your resume to get past them by including relevant keywords from the job description.
Q3. How does ATS see my resume?
Ans: ATS scans your resume for keywords like skills and experience listed in the job description. It parses the text, not the fancy formatting, so keep it simple and keyword rich.
