A Comprehensive Guide to Building ATS-Compliant Resumes

4 min readMay 31, 2024

Resumes are the focal point of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), the software employers utilize to streamline their hiring procedures. These systems facilitate rapid resume screening, empowering employers to prioritize candidates best suited for the job.

Understanding ATS.

ATS software scans resumes for keywords, skills, and other relevant information, making it essential for job seekers to tailor their resumes accordingly. Failure to align with ATS requirements can result in automatic dismissal.

Why an ATS-Compliant Resume is Crucial.

An ATS-compliant resume is vital for job seekers as it enhances their chances of getting noticed by potential employers. By building a resume, that is, compatible with ATS software, you increase the likelihood of your resume making it through the screening process and reaching the hands of a hiring manager.

So, how do you write a resume that gets noticed by both machines and recruiters? Here’s a guide to building an ATS-friendly resume that will make you stand out!!

Formatting Your Resume for ATS Compatibility:

Font and Format:

Use a simple, easy-to-read font such as Arial or Calibri.
Maintain a clear and consistent format throughout the resume.
Avoid using fancy fonts or italics.
Consider using an ATS-friendly template or software tool to ensure proper formatting and compatibility.

Choosing the Right Keywords:

To ensure your resume gets noticed, carefully review job descriptions for your target roles and identify relevant keywords and phrases.
These can include specific skills, qualifications, job titles, and industry buzzwords. Incorporate these keywords strategically throughout your resume, particularly in the skills and experience sections, to increase your chances of ranking higher in ATS searches.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building an ATS-Compliant Resume:

Step 1: Gather Your Information.

Before building your resume, gather information about the specific job you’re applying for.
Conduct a thorough job description review, highlighting key skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Research the company by visiting its website and social media pages to understand its culture, values, and the type of candidates they seek.

Step 2: Develop a compelling summary.

Your summary serves as a captivating headline that grabs the reader’s attention, whether human or machine. Here’s how to structure it:

Start with a strong opening, briefly introducing yourself and your profession.
Highlight 2–3 key skills relevant to the job description.
Showcase a quantifiable achievement that demonstrates your value.

Example:

“Experienced Marketing Specialist with over 5 years of success boosting brand visibility and attracting leads. Skilled in crafting and launching effective marketing campaigns that delivered a notable 20% increase in website traffic for my previous employer.

Step 3: Work Experience.

List your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position.
Quantify your achievements using numbers and metrics whenever possible.
Integrate pertinent keywords from the job description into your work experience section.

Step 4: Skills Section.

Showcase both technical and soft skills.

Customize your skills list to include those mentioned in the job description and genuinely relevant to the position.
Include a mix of hard skills (e.g., software proficiency) and soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork).

Step 5: Education and Certifications.

Present your educational background and certifications clearly:

List your education history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent degree or certification.
Include the name of the institution, degree/certification earned, and graduation date (if applicable).
If relevant, highlight any honors, awards, or special achievements.
Ensure consistency in formatting and follow standard conventions for listing educational credentials.

Review and Optimize for ATS Compatibility.

Before finalizing your resume, review and optimize it for ATS compatibility.

Ensure that your resume format is simple and easy to read, avoiding complex layouts or graphics that may confuse the ATS.
Use standard section headings and formatting to help the ATS accurately parse your information.
Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description naturally throughout your resume.

(i) Proofread your resume carefully for spelling and grammatical errors, as mistakes can negatively impact your chances of passing through the ATS.

(ii) Test Your Resume

Use ATS-friendly tools or software to confirm its compatibility and effectiveness.

Upload your resume to various ATS platforms to see how it parses and interprets your information.
Adjust your resume as needed based on the results of the ATS tests, ensuring optimal performance.
Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or professional resume reviewers to identify any potential areas for improvement.

By following these steps, you can create an ATS-compliant resume that showcases your qualifications and increases your chances of success in the job applications.

Link to a sample of an ATS-Compliant Resume: Sample Resume

Software Tools for ATS Optimization

There are several software options and online tools available to test your resume for ATS compliance.

Here are a few popular choices:

Free Options:

Jobscan — Upload your resume and compare it to a specific job description. Receive a score indicating your resume’s match to the keywords and get suggestions for improvement.

TopResume ATS Resume Checker — Scan your resume for formatting issues and receive suggestions for improving ATS readability.

Resume Worded Resume Scanner — Analyze your resume for formatting and keyword optimization.

Paid Options:

Resume Builder by Resume.com (Offers a free trial) — Use a resume builder with built-in ATS compatibility features and test your resume against specific job descriptions.

Hitch — Subscription service offering in-depth analysis of your resume and providing personalized feedback for ATS optimization.

Additional Tips:

Read Reviews: Before choosing a paid option, check online reviews to select software that best suits your needs and budget.
Focus on Overall Strategy: Use software tools to identify areas for improvement, but remember human readability and tailoring your resume to the specific job is crucial.
Combine with Manual Review: Even with ATS-friendly software, proofread your resume for typos and grammatical errors.
By combining these tools and strategies, you can significantly improve your resume’s chances of getting noticed by ATS and landing you that crucial job interview.

Authors: Bianca Gatwiri, Nicodemus Igwo, Micky Maria, Christopher Mwalimo