Applicant Tracking Systems

You Need to Know

Before your resume is given to a hiring manager, it first has to be reviewed by one, sometimes two, initial gatekeepers: an automated screen known as an Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and/or Talent Acquisition Coordinator.

Who is Reviewing Your Resume

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and Talent Acquisition Coordinators have been programmed/trained to screen resumes for important bits of information and terms related to the role at hand.

What Happens to Your Application

Your resume must pass the initial gatekeepers to be reviewed by the hiring manager for further assessment of your capabilities. If your resume does not meet the criteria, your application will never make it to a hiring manager.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) Tips

1.  Avoid Headers and Footers

Do not insert any information in the actual header/footer section of a Word document. Information placed in this area can get jumbled by the ATS’s. Instead of using the header, decrease your top margin to 0.5 inches and place your contact information at the top of the page.

2.  Stick to Simplicity

Most ATS’s are easily confused by logos, pictures, embedded charts, symbols and shading. Using extra bells and whistles could cause your application to be rejected out of confusion. Stick to standard resume formatting and easy to read fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman, and Calibri.

3.  Use Keywords

Many professions have their own jargon, acronyms, certifications, and skill sets that describe its work and industry. ATS’s are programmed to search for resume keywords to rank your job application. It’s important to adjust your resume with relevant keywords. Review the description and take note of key terms, if you hold those skills incorporate them throughout your resume.

4.  Word vs PDF

Be sure to upload your resume as a Word document. ATS’s have trouble processing PDFs and miss important information on your resume. Use PDF when emailing your resume to a networking contact.