5 ATS-Hacks to Get a Call Back - ResumeGemini

Here’s A Quick Tip:
“ATS does not particularly like .PDF, .DOC, .DOCX formats. Therefore, make sure your resume is in .TXT format”

Have you worked hard on your resume and yet didn’t get any calls back? Most recruiters get around 250 resumes per job opening in the dynamic USA, UK, and Canadian job markets. Most of these companies are using an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to filter out candidates and select potential candidates.

What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

An Applicant Tracking System is a software that screens and filters out the most relevant resumes from the applicant pool. Companies use this to simplify their hiring process, reduce the time taken in reviewing resumes, and help find the perfect match for the job description.

How does ATS select the best matched candidate?

The ATS selects the best matched candidate based on the keywords and phrases that the recruiter mentions on the job description. The resume is then scored based on the number of keywords that are present, especially in the following sections:

Name and Contact Information
Objective/Summary Statement
Experience
Skills
Education
Certifications
Awards

To simplify this process, you can use our Resume Builder that can create a resume with the appropriate keywords and layout for an ATS to select your resume for a callback.

5 Resume Hacks to beat an ATS in 2024

Here are some resume hacks that can help you beat an ATS:

Use Keywords: Understand the job description carefully and add some keywords that are used in the Job Description in your resume. The keywords should be included in your resume’s Objective/Summary, Experience, Skills, and Projects.
Use Action Verbs: Do not just list down your responsibilities in your resume. Instead, use action verbs that imply the impact of your work. Example: Instead of “Managed a team of 10 people,” write “Successfully managed a team of 10 people, resulting in a 15% increase in productivity.”
Use Numbers and Data: Whenever you want to highlight your skill set, use numbers or quantifiable data to establish the impact of your work. Example: Instead of “Improved customer satisfaction,” write “Improved customer satisfaction by 20% by implementing a new customer feedback system.”
Add Relevant Experience and Skills: Make sure that your resume is specific to the job description you want to apply for. Do not add irrelevant or generic responsibilities and skills to your resume.
Use the Right Keywords: ATS may not be able to identify keywords that are synonyms. Example: If the job description mentions ‘Database Management,’ use the same term in your resume. Do not use synonyms like ‘Data Management’

Tips to avoid sabotaging ATS

Here are some tips to avoid sabotaging your chances of getting your resume shortlisted by an ATS:

Avoid using images and graphics on your resume.
Do not use tables or charts in your resume.
Avoid using fancy fonts or colors that may not be ATS friendly.
Do not use headers and footers.
Keep the file size of your resume under 1MB.

Sample ATS-friendly resumes

Take a look at our sample ATS-friendly resumes to get a better idea of what a perfect resume looks like:

Career Expert Tips:

Select the ideal resume template to showcase your professional experience effectively.
Master the art of resume writing to highlight your unique qualifications and achievements.
Checkout the resume writing tips for guidance and best practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What are ATS keywords?

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software programs that screen resumes and job applications for keywords that match the job description. These keywords can include industry-specific terms, skills, and experience. By including relevant ATS keywords in your resume, you can increase your chances of being shortlisted for an interview.

How do I know if my resume is ATS-friendly?

There are a few ways to check if your resume is ATS-friendly. First, make sure that your resume is in a supported file format, such as PDF, Word, or TXT. Second, use a simple and easy-to-read font. Third, avoid using graphics, images, or tables. Finally, proofread your resume carefully for any errors.

What is the best way to format my resume for ATS?

There are a few things you can do to format your resume for ATS. First, use a clean and consistent layout. Second, use headings and subheadings to organize your resume. Third, use bullet points to list your skills and experience. Finally, keep your resume to one page.

Can I use a resume template with ATS?

Yes, you can use a resume template with ATS. However, it is important to choose a template that is ATS-friendly. Look for templates that are simple and easy to read, and that use a supported file format.
Find professional resume templates at Resumegemini.

What if my resume doesn’t pass the ATS?

If your resume doesn’t pass the ATS, there are a few things you can do. First, check your resume for any errors. Second, make sure that you have included relevant ATS keywords. Third, try using a different resume template.

Is it enough to just use the ATS keywords in my resume?

No, it is not enough to just use the ATS keywords in your resume. You also need to make sure that your resume is well-written and easy to read. Focus on highlighting your skills and experience, and use strong action verbs.

Will my resume be reviewed by a human after passing ATS?

In most cases, yes. After your resume passes the ATS, it will be reviewed by a human recruiter. This is why it is important to make sure that your resume is well-written and error-free.

Next Step:

Now that you know the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can start optimizing your resume for ATS. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting a callback and securing your dream job.
Start building your resume with ResumeGemini today. We offer a variety of ATS-friendly resume templates that will help you get noticed by recruiters.

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