What the @#$% is ATS?

 

ATS or applicant tracking systems are software programs that provide recruiting and hiring tools for companies.

These systems collect and sort thousands of resumes based on pre-set algorithms. Whether a human recruiter ever sees your resume, depends on how well your resume is optimized for ATS.

Why do employers use ATS?

Employers may receive hundreds of resumes for any given opening. Because applying online is easier than ever, many applicants are also unqualified, ATS eliminates low effort “it was worth a try” applications. ATS also helps keep employers organized and EEOC compliant.

What are the drawbacks of ATS?

Many top candidates slip through the cracks. Students and new grads especially are not well versed in ATS, and miss out on key opportunities.

How do you optimize your resume for ATS?

ATS creates a digital profile from your resume or cover letter. Keywords and other info can be lost if you use columns, graphics or even “non-standard headings. (You will read a lot of differing opinions on this. Newer ATS systems are not tripped up by columns, graphics, headers and footers or PDF format. However, you do not know what type of system you are submitting through — play it safe, keep it simple.)

  • Keep section headings simple, use standard headings like “Work Experience” nothing cute like “Where I’ve Been”
  • Keep consistent formatting for work history, education and dates throughout
  • No tables, no columns, no headers, no footers — no fun, we know…
  • Using doc/docx format is always best, pdf may not be read by ATS
  • Use a traditional resume font, Helvecia, Georgia or Garamond are good options
  • Use black or dark grey text, no colors or graphics of any kind
  • DO NOT include logos or branding of any kind (Use your online presence for creativity!)
  • If you are a creative and your resume looks bland — you’ve probably nailed it!

Let’s talk Keywords

ATS decides which candidates move forward based on keywords. ATS systems automatically compare your resume to the job description, then ranks each applicant based on how well their resume scores. ie: how many keywords and skills matches you have. The mission is to call out in both your resume and cover letter as many of the keywords and skills from the job description as you can — AND STILL HAVE A RECRUITER FRIENDLY RESUME.

Packing your resume with keywords may get you past ATS, but once a recruiter eyeballs it, they will make a determination whether to learn more about you in 4-6 seconds! Make sure your resume is easy to navigate, your top skills and qualifications are easily identifiable, and your resume sells you!

Jobscan will scan your resume and tell you how well your resume skills match up with any job description. Try it out!

 

Be sure to tailor EVERY resume to the job description EVERY SINGLE TIME!

  • Match your resume keywords to the job description
  • Use both acronym and long form versions of the same words for maximum searchability ie: Search Engine Optimization & SEO, Master of Business Administration & MBA
  • Highlight each ad (or create a keyword/skills list) to build your resume and cover letter                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

Build your keywords based on 6 key categories + (note: skills are examples, build list based on each job posting)

  • 1. Hard skills listed in the job description such as: computer skills ie: Adobe Suite, Microsoft Suite, 3-D graphics. PLM Experience, SEO/Social Media Experience, Proficient on Apple OS, Must have Car (yep it’s a thing), Google Docs
  • 2. Soft skills listed in the job description such as: Self-driven with a willingness to meet and exceed expectations, Independent, Can handle a fast paced environment, GREAT attention to detail
  • 3. Education requirements in the job description: BA, BS et al.
  • 4. Experience requirements in the job description: 1 year experience, 2 years experience, internship experience ok
  • 5. Identify key action words in the job description such as: leadership, organized, positive, team player, self motivated, proactive, able to multi-task
  • 6. Identify key industry terms in the job description such as: stylish, style expert, trend, creative, vision, awareness of: current trends, fashion magazines, websites, blogs, fashion and lifestyle media
  • + any additional requirements listed in the job posting

Now you’re ready to craft your resume. Learn more here.