How To Create An ATS-Friendly Resume (With Examples)

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have become essential tools for employers to streamline the hiring process, efficiently filtering through applications to identify qualified candidates. Unfortunately, many resumes never reach human eyes because they fail to meet ATS requirements. In today’s competitive job market, understanding how to optimize your resume for ATS is crucial to ensure your application stands out.

Studies indicate that approximately 75% of resumes are never seen by human recruiters due to ATS filtering. However, with the right adjustments and formatting, you can enhance your chances of getting your resume into the hands of hiring managers. Read on to learn how to create an ATS-friendly resume.

Key Takeaways:

• An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software used by employers to collect, scan, organize, and evaluate job applications.

• Utilizing the correct keywords, formatting, file type, and layout is essential for creating an ATS-friendly resume.

• Choose simple, professional fonts, utilize bullet points, and present your work experience in a chronological format to increase ATS compatibility.

• Do not place your contact information in the header of your resume.

• As of 2026, around 80% of mid-sized to large companies utilize ATS, with nearly 100% of Fortune 500 companies employing these systems.

What is an Applicant Tracking System?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software application that allows employers to collect, scan, organize, and rank job applications. These systems enable employers to efficiently evaluate candidates based on how well their resumes align with the job description.

Large organizations often receive thousands of applications daily, making ATS an invaluable tool for rapidly generating a shortlist of potential candidates. Think of the ATS as a first line of defense against unqualified applicants.

As of now, about 80% of mid-sized to large companies employ ATS, and nearly all Fortune 500 companies utilize these systems. While smaller companies might not use ATS, tailoring your resume to be ATS-friendly is still a wise strategy.

Understanding how ATS work allows you to leverage them to your advantage in the hiring process.

10 Tips to Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly

To ensure your resume is ATS-friendly, focus on using the right keywords, selecting an appropriate format, and avoiding headers or footers. Customizing your resume for each application is also crucial, as ATS are programmed to look for specific keywords and qualifications. Here are some essential tips to help your resume get past the ATS:

1. Use the Right Keywords. ATS software enables employers to search for keywords and ranks applicants based on the presence of these terms in their resumes.

   • Write Out Job Titles in Full. While acronyms may be acceptable, it’s advisable to spell out titles fully at least once. For example, if your title is HR manager, ensure you include “Human Resources Manager” clearly.

   • Create a List of Keywords. The best approach is to analyze the job description and highlight frequently used terms. Tailor your resume to incorporate these keywords effectively.

   • Be Specific with Keywords. If a job listing specifies experience with Google Analytics, use the full term, “Google Analytics,” rather than a generic term like “analytics.”

   • Repeat Important Keywords. Incorporate key terms two to three times throughout your resume to enhance ATS ranking. If you mention a skill, reflect it in your work experience to demonstrate your proficiency.

   • Customize Each Resume. Tailor your resume for each application by including relevant keywords, skills, and experiences. If applying for multiple jobs, look for common elements in the postings but strive for individual customization for better results.

2. Avoid Tricks. Some may suggest inserting keywords in white text to trick the ATS, but this approach will likely backfire when a human reviews your resume. Do not attempt this.

3. Select the Right Format. ATS are designed to read resumes in chronological order. Therefore, consider using a chronological format that emphasizes your work history.

   A combination format can also be effective. Avoid functional formats as they are less ATS-friendly.

4. Keep Your Layout Simple. Although creative designs may be tempting, they can hinder ATS parsing. Test your resume’s ATS compliance by copying it into a plain text editor (like Notepad) to see what the ATS will read.

5. Avoid Headers or Footers. Placing contact information in the header can lead to disqualification since many ATS cannot read this section. Any unique formatting may also be stripped away by the ATS.

6. Use Standard Headings and Bullet Points. Label your resume sections clearly—avoid creative titles like “The Amazing Skills of [Your Name].” Stick to conventional headings like “Skills.” Use simple bullet points such as solid circles or squares.

7. Choose the Right File Type. While PDFs are typically recommended for preserving formatting, not all ATS can read them. If the job application doesn’t specify, submit your resume in .doc or .docx format.

8. Stick to Basic Fonts. Use standard fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Georgia. Avoid using unique fonts that may not be readable by ATS.

9. Apply Only If You Are Qualified. While it may be tempting to apply for numerous positions, submitting resumes for jobs you’re not qualified for can lead to frustration. ATS exist to streamline the selection process and filter out unsuitable candidates.

   Don’t resort to embellishing your qualifications; it may work to pass the ATS but could backfire during interviews or reference checks.

10. Consider Alternatives to Online Applications. While applying online is straightforward, don’t forget the purpose of ATS—to filter through vast candidate pools. Leverage your network to find opportunities, as referrals can help you bypass ATS screening entirely.

Common ATS Resume Mistakes

Understanding what can cause an ATS to reject your resume is just as important as knowing how to optimize it. Avoid the following common mistakes:

• Contact Information in the Header. Failing to place your contact details outside the header can result in 100% of your resumes getting no response from major companies.

• Generic Resumes. Skipping keywords from the job description guarantees ATS rejection. Tailoring your resume for each job may take extra time, but it’s worth it.

• Incompatible File Type. Ensure you send your resume in the correct file format as specified in the job posting. If unsure, opt for .doc or .docx over PDFs.

• Graphics and Charts. Avoid using visuals in your resume; ATS cannot interpret them, and hiring managers are unlikely to be impressed.

How Do Applicant Tracking Systems Work?

ATS function by scanning resumes and applying a set of predetermined filters to rank candidates based on their qualifications relative to the job description. Here’s how an ATS typically filters resumes:

• Keywords. ATS parse resumes into categories and search for relevant keywords that align with the job. Their primary function is to eliminate the least qualified candidates, leaving behind the top contenders for human review.

  Remember, the ATS acts based on programmed criteria set by recruiters, focusing on identifying resumes that best match job requirements.

• Knockout Questions. Some ATS include knockout questions to eliminate candidates based on specific criteria. For example, if a position requires three years of experience, the ATS can discard applications that don’t meet this requirement.

• Additional Rules. The final score assigned to a resume, often represented as a percentage match, is governed by rules established by the employer, impacting how education, skills, and experience are weighted.

While it may seem daunting that technology influences your career prospects, it’s essential to remember that ATS merely reflect human-set guidelines aimed at identifying the most suitable candidates.

ATS Resume Example

ATS resume example #2:

ATS Resume Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an ATS-friendly resume?

An ATS-friendly resume is formatted to be easily scanned and evaluated by ATS software. Proper organization, appropriate headings, and compatible file types are essential. A successful ATS-friendly resume strategically incorporates job description keywords and relevant qualifications to achieve a high ranking.

2. Are PDF resumes ATS-friendly?

Most ATS accept PDF resumes. Generally, you should submit your resume as a PDF unless specified otherwise. Word documents are also widely accepted and serve as viable alternatives. Always check the application guidelines for acceptable file types.

3. Which resume format is the most ATS-friendly?

The chronological resume format is the most ATS-friendly. This format aligns with how ATS scan resumes, prioritizing work experience in reverse chronological order.

Final Thoughts

While Applicant Tracking Systems may seem like a daunting aspect of job searching in 2026, following the tips outlined in this article will help you navigate the ATS landscape effectively. By optimizing your resume for ATS, you can significantly improve your chances of making a positive impression on hiring managers and advancing in your job search.

Author

Matthew Zane

Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.

Expert

Don Pippin, MHRM, CPRW, CDCS

Don Pippin is an executive and HR leader for Fortune 50 and 500 companies and startups. In 2008, Don launched area|Talent with a focus on helping clients identify their brand. As a Certified Professional Resume Writer, Certified Digital Career Strategist, and Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Don guides clients through career transitions.