How to beat the applicant tracking system: Having a good resume is the key to getting your name into the hiring manager’s hands.
However, an applicant tracking system, or ATS, can be difficult to beat. Here are a few things you can do to help make sure your resume is read by the recruiters.
Formatting your resume
Using the right formatting techniques will help you beat the ATS. The applicant tracking system is used by many companies to sort through resumes. It scans through your resume and searches for certain keywords. If your resume does not contain the keywords in its proper form, it will be rejected. The best way to get past the ATS is to use targeted keywords.
When formatting your resume, try to use standard text fonts. Using newer fonts may cause the ATS to parse your resume incorrectly. You should also avoid tables. They are not well-parsed by the ATS.
If you use a table, make sure to have your contact information in the main body of the document. It is also best to use a single column layout. Multi-column layouts can cause glitches and lose important information.
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It is also best to use plain-text files for your resume. This will limit the options you have when formatting. It is also not a good idea to use images.
Avoid keyword-stuffing
Using keywords to make your resume pass ATS is a great idea, but don’t go overboard. It’s important to do a little research and be honest with yourself.
Most ATS software can detect and penalize keyword stuffing. Using the right keywords in the right places will increase your chances of being selected for an interview. The best way to do this is to incorporate the most relevant keywords in your resume. If you’re an accountant, you’ll want to mention the most important words in your job description, such as VAT or Sage. You’ll also want to include your tax filings and annual return.
When writing your resume, it’s important to think about the human reader. While your resume may be read by an applicant tracking system, you’ll want to make it as easy as possible for recruiters to find and select the best candidates.
One way to do this is to take the time to optimize your LinkedIn profile. This isn’t as much about SEO as it is about making your profile stand out in a crowd. You should make sure that you’re using the best keywords to optimize your profile, such as “Sales Account Executive” or “Accounting Specialist.” It’s also a good idea to use context when mentioning soft skills.
Tailoring your skills section
Getting a job is no small feat in a crowded market. Taking a proactive stance and utilizing the various tools in your arsenal can help you land that job and maybe even keep the itch at bay. Having a clear understanding of what is expected of you can ward off the competition by as much as tenfold. If you’re in the market for a new position, take the time to learn about your prospective employer before you make the first move. In the end, you’ll find the right fit for you and your family.
A good starting point is the company’s website. If you’re in the market for more than a job change, you’ll be able to check out their various job openings. You might also want to make it a goal to reach out to former colleagues and acquaintances who have a vested interest in your career.
