How to Write the “Perfect” Resume for the ATS: Keep It Simple, Get Noticed

In today’s digital world, job applications face a big hurdle before they get to a human: enter, the infamous Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

Think of the ATS as the bouncer at a trendy club—except instead of checking your ID, it’s scanning for keywords and specific formatting. And it’s picky. It’s not letting just anyone into the club. About 75% of resumes don’t make it past this first round ( HQhire.com ) . So, if you don’t speak its language, your resume is more likely to end up in the reject pile.

While it's tempting to add some flair to your resume using bold colors, stylish columns, and graphics to wow the recruiter. Fight the urge, because here's the catch: ATS can't appreciate aesthetics. In fact, it doesn’t like them.

All those fancy columns, intricate formatting, headshots? They’re more likely to make the ATS miss your qualifications altogether. The secret to getting past the ATS gatekeeper? Keep it simple, stick to a clear format, and let the content do the talking.

Get those basics right, and your resume will be more likely to make it into the hands of a hiring manager.

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The ATS Playbook: Optimizing Your Resume for Success

Below is a guide to writing an ATS-friendly resume that can help you land your next interview. You can also follow this link to download your own copy of an ATS Resume Template. (Use password: resume). Trouble viewing? DM Sarah Blankenship to request a copy!

1.????? Understanding the ATS: What Is It, and Why Does It Matter?

An ATS is software used by many companies to streamline the hiring process. It scans, parses, and ranks resumes based on relevance to the job description.

ATS looks for specific keywords, formats, and structures to decide which resumes to send to recruiters. If your resume isn’t optimized, it may get lost in the shuffle, even if you’re a perfect fit for the role.

2. The Power of Keywords: Speak the Same Language as the Job Description

The ATS scans your resume for keywords that match the job description. For example, if a job listing mentions “project management” or “budget analysis,” those terms should appear in your resume—naturally and authentically.

Tip: Use the job posting as a roadmap for your resume:

• Hard Skills: Highlight relevant skills that match the job description, like “data analysis,” “salesforce management,” or “PMP certification.”
• Soft Skills: If the job post mentions soft skills like “team collaboration” or “effective communication,” try to incorporate those in the context of your achievements.
• Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Don’t repeat keywords excessively or unnaturally—ATS software is smarter than you think!

3. Format for Success: Why Clean and Simple Wins

While it may be tempting to use a creative template with multiple columns, icons, and graphics, these can make it harder for ATS to extract your information accurately. Stick to a straightforward format:

• Use Standard Section Headings: ATS systems recognize conventional headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” and “Certifications.” Avoid creative labels like “What I’ve Done” or “My Journey.”
• Stick to Simple Formatting: Use a single-column layout. Fancy graphics, tables, and sidebars can be misread or ignored by ATS.
• File Format Matters: Recruiters will often make simple tweaks to resumes prior to submitting them to the hiring manager. Editing resumes in PDF format can be a logistical nightmare. The simplest resume format to use for recruiters is .docx. But always make sure to check what formats are accepted for each application.

4. Tailoring is Key: One Size Doesn’t Fit All

The “one and done” approach won’t cut it. Each job description is unique, and your resume should reflect that. Take time to tailor your resume for each application:

• Revisit Keywords: Adjust your keywords to match those used in each job description.
• Highlight Relevant Achievements: For each job, consider which past achievements are most relevant to the role you’re applying for.
• Adjust Your Summary: Tailor your professional summary to emphasize the skills and experience that align with the specific job.

5. Proofreading & Testing: Don’t Skip This Step

Before you hit “submit,” ensure your resume is error-free. Typos or formatting issues can trip up an ATS. Here’s how to do a final check:

• Proofread: Check for grammar, spelling, and consistency. Make sure your dates are formatted the same way throughout.
• Read Aloud: This helps catch awkward phrases or repetition.
• Peer Review: Ask a friend or family member to review for accuracy and flow.

Conclusion: Less Is More with ATS Resumes

Optimizing your resume for ATS isn’t about making it look pretty; it’s about making it readable for the software that determines whether you’re a potential fit.

By focusing on a clean design, strategic keywords, and a clear structure, you can maximize your chances of landing an interview. Keep it simple, keep it focused, and let your experience shine.

Contributing Gen X Nation Author: Sarah Blankenship

About the Author: Sarah Blankenship is Talent and Business Consultant and also the founder of Gen X Nation. Contact Sarah for 1v1 career or business consultations or to ask how you can contribute to the Gen X community.

Have something to say? Let us know! Send Sarah a DM and pitch your newsletter idea.

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