How to Write an ATS Resume

How to Write an ATS Resume

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What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is a software employers use to manage the entire application process. This system collects, scans and ranks all of the applications. At first, ATS was created for bigger companies. And you can see that in the numbers: 75% of large companies use an ATS because they receive thousands of applications every day.

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What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

But today, companies of all sizes (including over 98% of Fortune Companies) use an ATS.

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

Step 1: Pick the right resume format. The easiest format for an ATS to read is reverse-chronological. This format emphasizes your work experience by putting it on top of the page. Then, it sorts your experience from most to least relevant. This format is also the most popular among recruiters. In 99.9% of the cases, reverse-chronological is the best layout to go for.

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

Step 2: Choose the appropriate file type. A PDF file is universal and can be read by (most) ATS, so that should be your go-to. PDF files are also great for maintaining the design and format of your resume. Some applicant tracking systems (the old models), however, are unable to read PDF. Before applying for the position, check what job ad says.

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

If it explicitly states that you should apply with a Word document, then that might mean that their ATS CAN’T read PDFs, and you should just submit a .doc file.

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

Step 3: Use an ATS Resume Template Many applicants get rejected for using resume templates that ATS can’t read. Fancy templates you might have spent money on usually get scrambled in the system. It’s crucial to pick a tried-and-tested ATS friendly template. Novorésumé resume templates are perfect for writing an 

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

ATS-friendly resume. Our templates are developed hand-in-hand with recruiters and employers to help you create an amazing resume.

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

Step 4: Use a simple layout* *Did you decide to go with a Novorésumé template? You can skip this step, as the templates come with the right formatting. Otherwise, read on! Choose a common, simple font. Use bigger font sizes for headers and smaller ones for content. To highlight your achievements, stick to bulleted lists. Remember to choose a 

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

simple bulleted point. A solid circle or square is your best shot, as any complicated character might be incompatible with an ATS.

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

Step 5: Label your sections right. This part seems intuitive but we had to mention it anyway. Make sure to list your work experience under “Work Experience”, “Skills” under skills, etc. That’s the only way for the ATS to recognize what it is reading.

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

Step 6: Tailor your resume with resume keywords. Keywords are words or short phrases related to the specific requirements for a job.  The system scans for these words to find the best candidate. Now, we’re going to show you how to tailor your resume with keywords, and pass the screening:  

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

To find the right keywords, go through the job ad you’re applying for.There are two types of keywords you should look out for: (1) job-related skills and (2) action verbs. Job-related skills are your primary characteristics and qualifications for the job. Action verbs show what you have accomplished and succeeded in your job position.

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How to Create an ATS Resume (Step-By-Step)

After you’ve scanned the job posting, make a list of these keywords, and mention them in your resume.  Keep in mind, though, that you shouldn’t just randomly throw the keywords around. Your resume WILL be read by a human after it passes the ATS!

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