With 99% of hiring managers now using AI tools to screen candidates, your resume needs to impress both machines and humans. Many applications never reach a real person because they get filtered out by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Here’s how to make sure your resume gets noticed:
1. Match Job Titles Exactly
Use the exact job title from the listing in your resume’s headline or summary. For example, if the job is for a “Digital Marketing Manager,” don’t use “Online Marketing Leader.” Exact matches increase your chances of making it through the ATS filters.
2. Use the Right Keywords
Identify three to five key phrases that appear repeatedly in the job description. Use both full terms and acronyms (e.g., “Customer Relationship Management (CRM)”) to cover all search possibilities. Only include keywords that truly reflect your experience.
3. Highlight Core Skills Up Front
Place a “Core Skills” section near the top of your resume, right after your contact info and summary. List your most relevant skills for the job—focus on those mentioned in the job posting, and put the most important ones first.
4. Quantify Your Achievements
Replace vague statements with specific, measurable results. For example:
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Instead of “improved sales performance,” write “increased sales by 32% in Q2, generating $400,000 in new revenue.”
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Use the “Challenge-Action-Result” format to clearly show your impact.
5. Stick to Standard Section Headings
Use familiar headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” Avoid creative titles like “My Journey” or “Professional Toolkit,” which can confuse ATS software.
6. Use Simple Formatting and Save as .docx
ATS systems work best with simple formatting. Use standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, Helvetica) and avoid graphics, tables, or unusual layouts. Save your resume as a .docx file unless the job posting asks for something else.
7. Test Your Resume with ATS Tools
Before submitting, paste your resume into a plain text editor to check for formatting issues. Use online ATS simulators like Jobscan or Worded to see how well your resume matches the job description. Aim for an 80% match or higher and tweak as needed.
While optimizing for AI is crucial, don’t forget the human touch. Tell your story authentically and make your achievements shine. By following these steps, you’ll boost your chances of landing interviews—and your next job!