How to Get Past Applicant Tracking Systems

Format Your Resume to Get Past the ATS

When it comes to job hunting, you may have received the outdated advice to knock on doors, ask for a hiring manager, and print your resume on a nice cardstock. However, the hiring process has changed substantially in recent years, and the vast majority of hiring these days is done online. While online job applications make it easier to submit your resume to many potential employers with the click of a mouse, one of the most critical elements of the hiring process you’ll have to contend with is an applicant tracking system (ATS).

What is an ATS? 

Applicant tracking systems are software programs that help employers and recruiters sift through hundreds or thousands of resumes, filtering out huge numbers of candidates before human eyes ever see them.

The good news: There is a science to dealing with an ATS. When you know what these programs look for, you can revise your resume and your application to increase your chances of making it to the next stage of the hiring process. Here’s how.

Read the Job Description Carefully

Many job seekers are applying to as many jobs as possible. They don’t read the details of the description for each position and end up applying for jobs they’re not qualified for. Before applying, review the specific qualifications of each position. Employers will often list both minimum and preferred qualifications, and it’s important that you take those seriously. If you don’t meet the minimum qualifications, you’ll never make it through applicant tracking systems. For example, if the job asks for a bachelor’s degree and you don’t have one, the filter will reject your resume and application immediately.

If you do meet the qualifications, it’s crucial that you make that clear. Whether it’s the type of degree you hold or another certification that might be relevant to the job, it’s a good idea to format and spell it out in the same way it’s written on the job description.

Update Your LinkedIn Profile

Just because you have prior experience in the relevant fields doesn’t mean that you’re familiar with the right tools, skills, and software you’ll need to do the job. If you do, your prospective employer needs to know about them. Often, applicant tracking systems will allow you to link your LinkedIn profile to your application, but that won’t help if your profile is empty or outdated.

Take advantage of LinkedIn’s robust features! List out your skills, experience, education, certifications, endorsements, and recommendations. You’ll look like a seasoned pro and the ATS will be more likely to push your resume through. 

Choose Your Words Wisely

Think of the action verbs that are commonplace in the business world. “Outperformed,” “solved,” “led,” and “delivered” are excellent examples of words to include when writing descriptions of your previous positions. In addition to keywords, it is also recommended you include common or industry-specific abbreviations and acronyms. Don’t overdo it though. You don’t want your resume to be a jumble of jargon when it lands on the desk of a recruiter. 

Tailor Your Resume to the Job

Gone are the days of submitting the same resume to every job, crossing your fingers, and hoping for the best (even if the jobs and job titles are similar). You don’t need to write a completely new resume for every application. That said, it’s a good idea to make a few tweaks that ensure the most relevant qualifications are highlighted. 

Write a Killer Cover Letter

Your cover letter is your time to shine! Often cover letters aren’t reviewed by the ATS, so you have a little more freedom to show how you stand apart from other applicants. Explain why you’re passionate about your career, why you like the company you’re applying to, or what you can bring to the table. Let your personality show (professionally)! 

Applying for a job is never easy—regardless if it’s through the eyes of a human recruiter, software system, or both. We hope these tips will help you craft a stellar resume and land your dream job. Do you have any other tried-and-true tips? Share them in the comments.

Want more personalized guidance? CSU Global students and alumni can take advantage of the Career Center for free resume help, career coaching, and more.