You’ve probably sent out dozens of resumes only to hear nothing back.
Chances are, your resume never even reached a human.
That’s because most companies now use ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) — software that scans resumes and filters out those that don’t match the job description.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make your resume ATS-friendly and get it noticed by recruiters. Plus, we’ll show you how to test your resume instantly with our free ATS Resume Scanner.
What Is an ATS and Why It Matters
ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is software used by companies to sort, rank, and filter job applications.
It scans resumes for:
- Keywords related to the job description
- Formatting and structure
- Contact information and work history
If your resume doesn’t match what the system is looking for, it gets rejected automatically — even if you’re qualified.
How to Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly
1. Use a Simple Format
ATS tools can’t read fancy designs, tables, or graphics.
Use a clean, text-based layout with clear sections for:
- Contact Information
- Summary
- Work Experience
- Education
- Skills
Avoid:
- Tables, images, or columns
- Uncommon fonts (stick to Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman)
💡 Tip: Use our Resume Builder to create a perfectly formatted ATS-compliant resume automatically.
2. Use Job-Specific Keywords
Each job description contains critical keywords — skills, tools, and responsibilities.
The ATS looks for these exact terms.
For example, if the job says “Experience with Microsoft Excel”, your resume should include “Microsoft Excel,” not “Spreadsheet tools.”
You can scan your current resume using our ATS Scanner to find which keywords you’re missing.
3. Customize Your Resume for Each Job
Don’t use one generic resume for every job.
Tailor it slightly to match the role’s title, skills, and experience requirements.
Even small changes can increase your ATS score dramatically.
4. Save and Upload in the Right Format
Always save your resume as a .docx or .pdf file (if it’s text-based).
Avoid image-based PDFs — ATS systems can’t read them.
Bonus: Test Your Resume for Free
Before sending your next job application, test your document using our Free ATS Resume Checker.
It analyzes:
- ATS compatibility
- Missing keywords
- Formatting issues
- Overall resume score
You’ll get a full report and suggestions to improve your chances instantly.
Final Thoughts
A great resume isn’t just about design — it’s about being readable by both humans and machines.
By following these simple tips and using tools like our ATS Scanner and Resume Builder, you’ll make sure your resume stands out and actually gets seen.