What is ATS ?

What is ATS and why we use it ?

An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) resume format refers to the structure and layout of a resume designed to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems effectively. ATS is software many companies use to streamline their hiring processes. It automatically scans and evaluates resumes for specific keywords, skills, qualifications, and experiences relevant to a job posting. Resumes that don’t adhere to ATS-friendly guidelines may be rejected before ever reaching human recruiters.

To ensure your resume doesn’t get filtered out prematurely, it’s crucial to understand ATS formatting and its significance. Below is an in-depth discussion of what ATS resume formatting entails and why it’s important in today’s competitive job market. Our recent ATS verification scored on 50 candidate resumes completed on our Resume Builder was an 83% on average.

Key Features of an ATS-Optimized Resume

  1. Simple Layout and Design
    • Avoid complex designs, graphics, and images.
    • Stick to standard resume sections such as “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” and “Certifications.”
  2. Standard Fonts
    • Use fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, which are easy for both ATS and humans to read.
  3. Keyword Optimization
    • Incorporate keywords from the job description naturally into your resume. These may include specific skills, tools, or industry terms.
  4. Chronological or Hybrid Formats
    • Use a reverse-chronological format (most recent experience first) or a hybrid format that combines chronological and functional elements. Avoid purely functional formats, as they can confuse ATS systems.
  5. Plain Text with Proper Structure
    • Use clear headings and bullet points.
    • Avoid tables, text boxes, and unusual file formats. Save your resume as a .docx or .pdf, as specified by the employer.
  6. Contact Information
    • Include essential details like your full name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). Avoid including unnecessary personal information like photos, marital status, or date of birth.

1.Why Is ATS Resume Formatting Important?

1.1. Widespread Use of ATS

Over 90% of large companies and many smaller organizations use ATS to manage their recruitment process. With thousands of applicants vying for the same position, ATS helps employers filter out unqualified candidates quickly.

1.2. Increases Visibility

An ATS-compliant resume ensures your application is visible to recruiters. Without proper formatting, even highly qualified candidates may be overlooked.

1.3. Saves Time for Recruiters

ATS streamlines the hiring process by presenting only the most relevant resumes to recruiters. By formatting your resume for ATS, you increase the likelihood of making it to the next stage.

1.4. Highlights Relevant Skills

ATS focuses on matching job-specific skills and qualifications. Tailoring your resume to include these ensures you demonstrate your suitability for the role.

1.5. Levels the Playing Field

ATS-compliant formatting ensures that everyone is assessed based on the same criteria, minimizing biases in the initial screening process.

4. Do all employers use ATS ?

No, not all employers use an ATS, but many do.

One study found that over 98.8% of Fortune 500 companies use an ATS. Further, it’s estimated that 66% of large companies use them and 35% of small businesses do.

Although not every company uses every function an ATS has. Some companies leverage their ability to manage the hiring process and post job ads without using their resume screening functions.

However, it’s still worthwhile to make an ATS-friendly resume just in case the business you apply to uses one. On top of that, ATS resumes are also simpler and easier to read for the hiring manager.

5. The Cons off ATS

However, applicant tracking systems also have their downsides. There’s always a risk when handing important responsibilities to technology, such as processing errors or keywords being overlooked.

This is bad for the company because they miss out on great workers – it’s bad for job seekers because they may get filtered out despite being qualified.

Here are the most common drawbacks of an applicant tracking system:

  • Has the potential to omit qualified applicants due to missing keywords
  • May have trouble reading certain fonts or formats
  • Technical issues can omit applicants
  • Applicants may not be able to apply for multiple positions

We’ll quickly expand on that last point.

Some applicant tracking systems may consider a second application from the same person a duplicate and delete it. This stops candidates from applying for multiple positions, which is especially damaging if they’re more qualified for one role over the other.

“Applicant tracking systems are designed to organize the application and hiring process. One of its primary functions is storing a database of candidates and their resumes.”

Following a few simple dos and don’ts helps ensure that your resume doesn’t get filtered out and gets straight to the hiring manager.

Proudly powered by WordPress