Understanding how to formulate a simple resume layout that can successfully beat applicant tracking systems (ATS) comes with one having intensive knowledge of ATS functions. It is of critical importance to not only have knowledge on how ATS works, but also how to design your content for optimization and performance.
ATS technology is used by most large organizations and a growing number of smaller operations to help hiring managers filter out unqualified candidates and make the hiring process more efficient.
Applicant tracking systems scan resumes for relevant keywords pertaining to the job description and will come up with a list of qualified candidates that internal hiring teams can reach out to. On record, applicant tracking systems eliminate 75 percent of them from the job candidacy pool. This stat alone is alarming to jobseekers as only 25 percent of job applicants are successfully able to get their documents in the hands of actual human eyes!
There are numerous techniques available that can strategically help you perform better against an ATS, such as getting a cost-effective resume by hiring a professional resume writer. Not only will you be getting a cheap resume from an affordable simple resume writing service: Our certified writers are skilled at making sure all best practices are followed and implemented. If you’re not confident in your ability to beat an ATS, we specialize in offering low cost services to ensure your writing reaches a hiring manager. Aside from a hiring a writer, here are a few tricks that you can use to BOOST the appeal of your simple resume layout right away.
Optimize Your Simple Resume Header
Applicant tracking systems are computers that are designed to strategically scrutinize and filter simple resume layouts. It is important to format your header in a clear manner so as not to confuse the ATS, which can result in your professional document being filtered out immediately. Take extra care in making sure that your header lists your first and last name followed by your address, phone number, and email.
We are often asked by clients on whether or not it is proper etiquette to include their entire addresses (street names, unit numbers, etc.). The answer is yes (unless you’re looking to relocate for a role. Click here to learn more)! Applicant tracking systems are designed to geo-filter resumes by location. Including your complete location allows these systems to see where you are located and determine whether or not the position is a fit for you. After all, there is very little point in interviewing for a position that is a 4-hour commute from your home, especially if you’re not looking to commute!
Include A Professional Summary
A key area to optimize for maximum performance against the ATS is the professional summary. A professional summary is the short paragraph at the beginning that briefly details your title, experience, and skills. Every simple resume layout at the very minimum should contain a professional summary for optimization. Lead in with two to three sentences describing yourself as a professional and include as many pertinent keywords from the job description as possible. This signals to the ATS that you possess all the requisite skills for the job.
Insert An Areas Of Expertise Section
Compiling a list of 9 to 12 areas of expertise that most closely align with your skillsets and the type of positions you are looking to pursue is a great idea for applicant tracking system optimization. Areas of expertise are specific skills that are needed in order for you to carry out the daily responsibilities of the role. Not only is it a great idea to have those keywords on hand, but by listing them neatly on the document itself, you are giving applicant tracking systems the chance to parse your resume for those words and pass it along in the ‘good’ pile!
Understanding how to write a document that beats applicant tracking systems is pivotal in today’s age of the computerized application process. Although the ATS can sometimes eliminate candidates that are indeed well qualified for the role, hiring managers have very little time to scan through hundreds of professional documents and are relying more and more on the feedback they receive from these systems to make informed hiring decisions.
Taking the time to ensure that your document has all the elements necessary to beat applicant tracking systems and impress hiring managers is key to landing interviews for the positions you wish to pursue. Download our simple resume layout to see our format that is optimized for both applicant tracking systems and hiring manager eye appeal!
