Is your resume ATS-optimized? Tips from our recruiters.

Perhaps you’ve heard that computerized resume scanners (also known as ATS or Application Tracking System) reject applications before they even make it into human hands. An ATS acts as a filter, parsing every resume submitted and forwarding only the most relevant, qualified job seekers to hiring managers or recruiters.

While ATS can automate the screening process and make it more efficient, it may not provide a full picture of the candidate. Therefore, many organizations use a combination of ATS and personal interaction to gain a more complete understanding of the candidate and make informed hiring decisions. With an adoption rate of 35% among smaller companies and 66% among large organizations, including some of our clients, usage has been increasing year-over-year.

Below you will find some of our useful tips to help you, as a qualified candidate, who might miss out on opportunities because your application did not pass the technology which is currently available. Luckily, getting past the ATS is a lot easier than you might think. Follow these steps curated by our expert tech recruiters and optimize your resume and make it ATS compliant.

• Word count matters

For the ATS to read, recognize, understand and parse, our recruiters suggest keeping the resume length to a minimum of 1000 words. While it’s important to keep your resume concise and to the point, it’s equally important to ensure that it’s long enough to contain all the necessary information that hiring managers and recruiters need to make an informed decision. 

• Avoid tables and columns

Unfortunately, some resumes with columns or tables do not successfully pass through the ATS. If you absolutely must use a resume design that incorporates columns, opt for a left-hand rail or column.

• Correct headings

Use correct and clear resume headings/labels like “Work experience” and “Skills” instead of “My work“ and “What I am good at”. Avoid using creative or ambiguous headings that may confuse the ATS or make it difficult for recruiters to understand your experience and qualifications. Be specific and use descriptive labels that accurately represent the content of each section. 

• Correct fonts

Tahoma, Helvetica, Arial, Gill Sans, Verdana, Garamond and Calibri are ranked as the best and most ATS-friendly fonts. Avoid using informal-looking fonts. Font sizes less than 10 risk going undetected by some ATS. 10-12 are optimal font sizes.

• Customize the keywords

The ATS will scan your resume for specific keywords and phrases that are relevant to the job you’re applying for, so it’s important to use the same language and terminology as the job posting. Match your resume keywords to the job description. Tailormade resumes stand a better chance of being included in recruiter search results than the generic ones.

With these tips, you can make sure that your resume is ATS-friendly and stands out to recruiters and hiring managers. Furthermore, if you’re looking for new job opportunities, we have great news for you! At Futurepath, we’re hiring for many open freelance and permanent positions across the Volkswagen Group brands. Send us your CV and push start on your Futurepath journey!