Building an ATS-Friendly Resume That Gets Noticed

A resume that merely lists your work experience and education will not be enough to capture attention in today’s AI-ruled world.

Recruiters are often flooded with hundreds of applications for a single role, and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) has become the first line of defense in narrowing down the talent pool. These systems automatically screen resumes to identify the best matches, often before a human recruiter can look at them. That means job seekers today face the dual challenge of creating a resume that not only passes through automated filters but also resonates with hiring managers who are skimming resumes in search of top talent.

Creating a standout resume involves blending strategic keyword usage, clear formatting, and powerful descriptions of your achievements—all while maintaining a structure that both an ATS and a human reader can easily follow.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each critical step to create a resume that shines at every stage of the hiring process, giving you the best chance of landing interviews and making a strong impression.

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and Why They Matter

If you’re unfamiliar, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software programs many companies use to sort through resumes. They read and analyze resumes, ranking candidates based on how well they match the job description. Only those with the highest scores make it to a recruiter’s desk. That’s why it’s essential to make sure your resume is ATS-friendly; otherwise, it might be filtered out before a human ever sees it.

Mastering Keywords to Get Past the ATS

You need the right keywords to make your resume shine in an ATS. Your language should reflect the skills, qualifications, and expertise that the job description highlights. Start by carefully reviewing the job posting. Look for keywords or phrases like specific software names, industry terms, or essential skills, and weave these naturally throughout your resume.

Using the exact job title in your resume can also boost your chances of making it past ATS screening. For instance, if the title is “Project Manager,” include it prominently in your resume headline or summary. And while it’s important to include keywords, avoid overloading your resume with them. Think of it as tailoring, not stuffing!

Highlighting Measurable Achievements

Numbers can be a game-changer on your resume, showcasing your impact in a clear and memorable way. Instead of general statements like, “Managed payroll and hiring,” try to make your achievements measurable: “Managed payroll for a team of 200, improving accuracy by 30%.” Quantifiable metrics speak volumes, whether it’s profit increases, time savings, or team growth. It’s a great way to let hiring managers know what you’re capable of achieving in their organization.

Keeping It Concise and Easy to Read

Hiring managers and recruiters often spend only seconds on each resume, so a clear, concise format can help yours stand out. While most resumes should be one to two pages, the key is not just length but readability.

Make sure your most relevant information comes first, and opt for a professional layout that doesn’t distract from the content. A simple, easy-to-scan resume is more likely to catch a recruiter’s eye than one that’s too flashy or complex.

Presenting Yourself Professionally, Without Excessive Creativity

When it comes to resume design, less is often more. Both ATS and recruiters prefer clean layouts with standard headers like “Work Experience” and “Skills.” Avoid images, charts, or complex formatting, as these can confuse ATS software and make human reading difficult.

Choose a professional font, such as Arial or Calibri, and keep the font size readable. Consistency in style and formatting helps your resume look polished and professional.

Leveraging Your Social Footprint

Your online presence matters, especially on LinkedIn, GitHub, or any portfolio sites related to your field.

Studies show that almost 40% of recruiters might skip over candidates who lack a LinkedIn profile, so don’t miss out. Including links to relevant profiles helps give a fuller picture of your professional background and showcases any additional work you may want employers to see. Just make sure your profiles are up to date and reflect what’s on your resume for a seamless presentation.

Saving, Naming, and Proofreading

Once your resume is polished and ready, there are a few final steps to ensure it’s perfect. First, consider the file type. Unless a job description specifies otherwise, saving your resume as a PDF helps preserve its formatting across different devices.

Name the file professionally, like “FirstName LastName – JobTitle,” making it easy for hiring managers to find. Finally, proofread carefully. Spelling errors or inconsistencies can be an easy reason for recruiters to pass over your resume, so check everything meticulously, from grammar to spacing.

Bonus Tips for Making an Impression

Small tweaks can go a long way in making your resume memorable. Using action verbs like “led,” “implemented,” or “achieved” makes your accomplishments sound more dynamic and impactful. Tailoring your resume to each specific job may feel time-consuming, but it can make a huge difference.

Personalization shows hiring managers that you’re serious about the role and invested time in understanding what they’re looking for.

Need More Assistance?

With these tips, you’re well on your way to crafting a resume that not only gets past the ATS but also stands out to hiring managers. Following these strategies will help you land more interviews and take steps closer to the job you want.

For more advice on resumes and career growth, connect with us at Uptempo Recruiting, or learn more about our resume optimization services.