These systems are designed to scan, sort, and filter out resumes based on criteria that the recruiter defines in advance. Modern ATS systems even incorporate artificial intelligence features.
So, if your resume isn't optimized to pass that initial automated screening, it's possible that no one will read it and you'll be excluded from the selection process, regardless of your level of experience.
How do I create an ATS-optimized resume?
To create a resume that the system can read, understand, and process correctly, you need to use a simple format, appropriate keywords, and avoid mistakes that could confuse the system.
Tips for Making Your Resume ATS-Friendly
- Use a clean, simple format:
- Avoid using graphics, columns, tables, and overly elaborate layouts, as they can confuse the system.
- Avoid headers or footers.
- Use common fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- If, for example, you include a logo with text inside it, the ATS won't be able to read it, so we recommend not placing important information inside an image.
- Include your contact information prominently at the beginning of the document.
- Export in the correct format
- Some ATS systems have trouble reading complex PDFs, but if it's a simple PDF (exported from Word, for example), there's no problem.
- It can also be exported as a .doc file.
- Include keywords.
- We recommend that you read the job description carefully and make sure to include the skills, tools, and responsibilities mentioned therein.
- For example, if the job posting specifies experience with a particular tool, make sure that is mentioned verbatim in your resume if it applies.
- Sections such as Work Experience, Education, Technical Skills, Languages, and others help the system categorize the information.
- Avoid using creative or confusing names in the headers.
- Preserve the document's structure
- Your resume should be concise but comprehensive. If you have extensive experience, it is recommended that you highlight the most relevant aspects.
- Check your spelling before sending it. An ATS may not recognize a misspelled word, and that could cost you points.
- It is best to arrange everything in a single vertical column.
- Run your resume through an AI tool before submitting it with an application.
When should you use an ATS-friendly resume?
When putting together your resume, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on the type of company and how the hiring process works, you may want to use a resume optimized for automated systems, or one that’s more visual, creative, or personalized.
It is best to use this type of resume when applying for:
- Job postings on major job search websites (such as Computrabajo, Bumeran, LinkedIn, etc.)
- Medium-sized or large companies, which receive a large number of resumes and often automate part of the process.
- Recruitment or human resources consulting firms that handle multiple searches at the same time.
- Multinational companies or firms with standardized hiring processes.
- Online forms where you can upload your resume directly: these often use an ATS to perform the initial screening.
In these cases, your resume will most likely be reviewed first by an automated system and then by a human.
When should you use a traditional or creative resume?
You can use a more traditional resume when:
- You're going to hand-deliver your resume; for example, at a business location or a job fair.
- You apply directly to someone, such as a manager, recruiter, or personal contact.
- Are you looking for a job in creative fields, such as graphic design, advertising, visual communication, UX/UI, etc.?
- The company is small or offers more personalized service.
- You've already had an interview or made initial contact, and you're sending your resume as a follow-up.
In these cases, your resume will be read directly by a person, so you have more freedom with the design to highlight your personality or stand out from the crowd with an original format (while still remaining clear and professional).