How to pass the ATS
Most companies screen resumes with an Applicant Tracking System before a human ever looks. Here are seven rules that get your resume through the filter — and in front of a person.
1. Mirror the job description's keywords
ATS software ranks resumes by how well they match the posting. Use the same terms the job description uses — if it says 'customer success,' don't write 'client happiness.' Add only the skills you genuinely have.
2. Use a simple, single-column layout
Tables, text boxes, columns, headers/footers, and graphics often get scrambled or dropped when the ATS parses your file. Stick to a clean single-column layout with standard section headings (Experience, Education, Skills).
3. Submit a .docx or text-based PDF
A .docx is the safest bet. If you use PDF, make sure it's text-based (selectable text), not an exported image. Scanned or image PDFs can't be parsed at all.
4. Use standard section headings
Creative headings like 'Where I've Made an Impact' confuse the parser. Use conventional labels so the ATS knows which block is your work history versus your education.
5. Spell out acronyms at least once
Write 'Search Engine Optimization (SEO)' so you match both the acronym and the full phrase, whichever the recruiter searches for.
6. Put skills in context, not just a list
A keyword buried in a bullet that shows impact ('cut deployment time 40% with CI/CD') carries more weight with the human reader than a bare skills dump — and still matches the ATS.
7. Tailor every application
One generic resume rarely scores well across many postings. Adjust your summary and top bullets to each role. Candidates who tailor see roughly 2.5x more interviews.
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