Introduction
You’ve probably heard the term “ATS” during your job search, but what exactly is it? And more importantly—how can you make sure your resume gets through it?
In today’s job market, over 75% of employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter candidates. These systems scan your resume before a human recruiter ever sees it.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to write an ATS-friendly resume that gets past the bots and into the interview stack.
What Is an ATS and Why Does It Matter?
An Applicant Tracking System is software that companies use to:
- Collect job applications
- Scan resumes for keywords
- Filter candidates based on relevance
If your resume doesn’t follow ATS rules, it might be rejected automatically—even if you’re qualified.
Want to know more about how ATS works? Visit Jobscan’s guide.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly
1. Use a Simple, Clean Format
First and foremost, avoid fancy designs. ATS software can’t always read:
- Tables and columns
- Headers/footers
- Graphics or logos
- Special fonts and icons
Instead, use:
- Standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman
- Clear section headings (e.g., “Work Experience,” “Education”)
- Bullet points (simple black dots)
Bonus Tip: Save your resume as a .docx or PDF file—unless the job post says otherwise.
2. Include the Right Keywords
One of the biggest ATS filters is keyword relevance. If your resume lacks the right words, it may never reach a recruiter.
What you should do:
- Carefully read the job description
- Use exact phrases (e.g., “digital marketing,” “budget forecasting”)
- Add industry-specific terms
Tool Tip: Use Jobscan’s resume scanner to check how well your resume matches a job post.
3. Spell Out Abbreviations and Acronyms
The ATS might miss common abbreviations like:
- “CRM” instead of “Customer Relationship Management”
- “SEO” instead of “Search Engine Optimization”
Best practice: Include both formats.
Example: “Managed SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for e-commerce platforms.”
4. Use Standard Headings
Stick to common resume headings such as:
- Professional Summary
- Work Experience
- Education Certifications Skills
Avoid creative labels like “My Journey” or “Career Path”—the ATS won’t recognize them.
5. Customize for Each Job
Generic resumes rarely make the cut. Always tweak your resume based on:
- Job title
- Required qualifications
- Desired skills
Even a 10-minute edit per application can drastically improve your chances.
6. Avoid Unreadable File Elements
Never include:
- Text in images
- Embedded charts or pie graphs
- Embedded hyperlinks (use raw links if needed)
If in doubt, test your resume by uploading it to Resume Worded to see how it scores.
Final Thoughts: Beat the Bots and Impress Recruiters
The job market in 2025 is digital-first—and your resume needs to keep up.
By following these ATS resume tips, you not only improve your chances of passing the digital screen but also show recruiters you’re detail-oriented and professional.
CTA: Download Our Free ATS-Friendly Resume Template
Want a head start?
Download our free ATS-ready resume template here and start applying with confidence.
