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Writer's pictureSonja Passmore

Understanding Automatic Tracking Systems (ATS) - Why It Matters For Your Resume

Updated: Jul 23, 2023


There is a black keyboard with three coloured tags sticking out from the side. The red tag says Applicant, The orange tag says Tracking and the blue tag says System making up the title of the image 'Applicant Tracking System'
Understanding Automatic Tracking Systems - Why It Matters for Your Resume

Have you ever applied for a job and wondered why you didn't get a callback, being perfectly qualified? The answer might lie in the Applicant Tracking System (ATS).


An ATS is software used by employers to manage and filter large volumes of job applications. It scans resumes for relevant keywords and phrases, ranks them based on how closely they match the job requirements and presents the top candidates to hire. So, why is it important to consider ATS when writing your resume? Here are a few reasons:


ATS can make or break your chances

With most job postings receiving hundreds of applications, the ATS is often the first hurdle your resume needs to clear. If your resume doesn't include the right keywords and phrases, it might get filtered out before a human even sees it. Therefore, it's essential to tailor your resume to the job description and use relevant keywords throughout.


Your formatting matters

The ATS has trouble reading some types of formatting, such as tables, images, and graphs. Therefore, it's best to keep your resume in a simple, text-based format. Use headings, bullet points, and bold text to highlight important information.


Don't forget about the context

The ATS not only looks for specific keywords but also the context in which they appear. Therefore, it's important to use relevant keywords in the right context. For example, if the job description calls for "project management skills," make sure you use the exact phrase "project management" rather than just "management" or "team leadership."


It's not just about the keywords

While keywords are important, the ATS also looks for factors such as work experience, education, and skills. Therefore, including a detailed work history, relevant education, and a skills section on your resume is important.


In conclusion, considering ATS when writing your resume is crucial to getting noticed by potential employers. Tailor your resume to the job description, use relevant keywords, keep your formatting simple, and include detailed work experience, education, and skills. With these tips in mind, you can increase your chances of getting past the ATS and landing the job of your dreams.

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