8 Tips to Help You Pass an ATS CV Check
Landing a job in today’s job market is like hitting the jackpot. This is often because many job seekers are unaware that their resumes must go through an applicant tracking system before a human reviews them. Luckily, there are a few ways in which you can increase your chances of completing ATS successfully. Let’s discuss them below.
Understanding ATS & Why It Matters
ATS software evaluates cover letters and resumes according to employer requirements. This may include keywords, style and design, length, and salary expectations. That means your resume will only be considered for an interview if it is up to mark.
This may sound like a roadblock for job searchers, especially those who feel frustrated because they fit the role's qualifications perfectly. However, ATS will probably be around for a while because 98% of Fortune 500 organizations utilize it for qualifying screening.
What is an ATS CV check?
An ATS CV check is a procedure that helps employers manage the overwhelming number of resumes they receive and speed up recruitment efforts.
Recruiters use ATS to streamline the task of examining resumes for particular qualifications, keywords, and experience that match the job description instead of evaluating each application by hand. The ATS filters resumes that do not meet its criteria, allowing hiring managers to focus on the most qualified candidates.
The problem is that if your resume is incompatible with ATS, it could be dismissed without ever reaching a recruiter. That’s why tailoring your resume for an ATS CV check increases the likelihood of passing the screening and helps you secure an interview.
8 Tips to Pass an ATS CV Check
Here are eight practical tips to help your CV pass an ATS CV check and boost your chances of meeting with a recruiter.
1. Use relevant keywords from the job description
ATS software works by scanning resumes for specific keywords that match the job description. These keywords often reflect the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience the employer is looking for. Including the right keywords can make or break your chances of passing an ATS CV check, so here’s how you can find and use them effectively:
Example 1: A Software Engineer Position
Job Description Keywords:
- Programming Languages: Python, Java, JavaScript
- Technologies: React, Django, RESTful APIs
- Skills: Agile development, debugging, software architecture
How to use them:If the job description highlights Python and Agile development, make sure your resume includes these terms. Ideally, include a sentence like “Developed software solutions in Python while following Agile development practices.”
2. Keep your formatting clean and simple
Intricate designs and visuals might appear attractive but could confuse ATS software, resulting in misinterpretation or rejection of your resume. Try to follow a simple and minimalistic layout. Use standard fonts such as Arial or Calibri, avoid using visuals or pictures, and ensure formatting remains uniform.
Also, make sure you utilize straightforward and distinct headings like Work Experience and Education. Adhering to a simple yet professional layout increases the likelihood of passing an ATS CV check.
3. Ditch the jargon and keep your language clear
Employing overused expressions and trendy terms can make your resume appear generic instead of unique. Phrases such as self-starter or detail-oriented are frequently used too much and may not effectively communicate your general abilities and soft skills.
Instead of just listing these attributes, demonstrate them through examples in your resume and cover letter using a "show, not tell" strategy. For example, instead of saying, "I am a self-starter," offer a specific instance demonstrating your proactive attitude and influence.
Instead, you could say that by implementing a new customer feedback program, response rates increased by 40%, allowing our team to make important changes in product development. This method not only shows your proactive attitude but also emphasizes your concrete achievements, which can make a stronger argument to potential employers.
4. Use standard section headings
ATS software is designed to scan for particular segments within your resume. It anticipates finding typical titles such as Work Experience, Education, and Skills. Steer clear of using unique labels such as "My Journey" or "Achievements" because they may confuse the system. Adhere to the fundamentals to guarantee that all your details are acknowledged.
This straightforward tactic guarantees that your resume can be understood by both an ATS CV check and a hiring manager. Using a resume checker can assist in identifying any unusual headings that could disrupt the ATS.
5. Tailor your resume for each job application
Your resumes should be as unique as the job postings they are targeting. Customizing your resume for each position is an effective strategy for improving your likelihood of successfully passing an ATS CV check. Modify the keywords, refine your job experience explanations, and emphasize the key skills most important for each position you are interested in.
This personalization aids in getting your resume past ATS systems and ensures it is appealing to human readers. Utilizing a resume checker to guarantee that every iteration of your resume is tailored to the job requirements can make a significant difference.
6. Use AI tools for ATS optimization
You don't have to play a guessing game when optimizing your resume for ATS. Resume formatting tools offered by platforms like Allsorter can assist individuals in developing resumes that are optimized for ATS systems, increasing the chances of passing the initial screening process.
Utilizing a checker or a resume formatting system can assist in verifying your CV is structured correctly, contains essential keywords, and steers clear of common errors that may result in it being overlooked.
Tools like Allsorter can cut back resume formatting time by 80%. Using the appropriate tools and methods can significantly increase the chance of your resume standing out.
7. Keep your resume focused
Extensive resumes with a lot of text can confuse an ATS, as it may need help interpreting dense chunks of information. Ensure that your resume is brief and straight to the point, utilizing concise bullet points to highlight your skills and experience.
Providing concise, targeted information on your resume helps ATS software and recruiters scan it effectively. Ideally, your CV should not exceed two pages.
8. Headshots are a no-go for resumes
In case of a job posting that does not explicitly require a headshot, you should avoid adding photos to your resume. A picture may provoke unconscious bias, which could hinder the recognition of your skills and achievements.
Instead, prioritize having a professional photo on your LinkedIn profile and other professional social media accounts that portray you accurately. Research indicates that around 67% of employers review the social media profiles of job applicants when making hiring decisions.
So, ensure that your professional image is reflected accurately online by deleting any content that could raise concerns or does not align with your career objectives.
Wrapping Up
In today's hot job market, making your resume shine in an ATS CV check is vital to stand out from the crowd of potential employers. By implementing these insider tips, you can make your resume more ATS-friendly and attract hiring managers' attention.
Remember, no matter how annoying they are, minor resume changes can significantly impact your chances of securing an interview. Start optimizing your CV with Allsorter, and take the guesswork out of passing ATS screenings now!