cv tips
To understand why resume formatting matters to applicant tracking systems, you first need to understand how resumes move through ATS.
Here's how it works: After you submit your resume through an online application, it automatically lands in the ATS.
Abbreviations and Acronyms
Most ATS aren't programmed to recognize abbreviations like MBA, CPA and PMP if a recruiter searches for the long form of the keyword (e.g. Master of Business Administration, Certified Public Accountant, Project Management Professional).
Don't fear! This is an easy one to fix. Spell out the keyword then use the common acronym in parentheses to make sure your credentials don't get missed.
Tables
Some ATS have a difficult time parsing information within tables. Sections in tables can get jumbled together or information can be lost entirely.
- Non-Standard Bullet Points
- I often have job seekers ask if bullet points are okay for a resume being submitted through ATS.
- Yes! In fact, standard bullet points are a great way to organise information on your ATS resume.
- Unique Font
- Of course, you want your resume to stand out from the crowd, but using a unique font will just work against you.
- Incorrect Date Formatting
- Some of the major ATS most accurately parse dates in the format of MM/YYYY. For example,
- "03/2011." Most ATS will also accept the format of
"March 2011."
- Extra Spacing Between Words
- ATS are picky about keywords-really picky. A few of the top ATS, including Bullhorn and Greenhouse, will not even recognize multi-word keywords if the words are separated by extra spaces.
Unprofessional File Name
Joe Smith Google. dox is a great file name, unless he accidentally sent it to Amazon. A few applicant tracking systems include the file name in their portal, which means the hiring manager at Amazon will not be too pleased with Joe Smith…
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