It’s said that your ATS friendly Resume reputation is often your resume and you’ve just got a few seconds to create the first impression with the recruiters.
Is there a magic formula for a ATS friendly Resume? No, but we do know some proven resume do’s and don’ts 2023 that can help you craft one that impresses the recruiters. ATS friendly Resume Your resume is a storytelling tool to market yourself and an effective resume presents the most relevant information about you in the most compelling manner. So here we give a list of “to do & not to do”. By following these rules one can create an eye catching resume.
What to do while creating a ATS friendly Resume?
1.Keep your ATS friendly Resume clear and concise
An employer takes an average of 30 seconds to skim a resume. You want them to see right away that you are qualified for the position.
2. Include relevant key-words
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes. To ensure that your resume gets past these systems, include relevant keywords from the job description.
3. Proofread your resume numerous times
Be sure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes. Have someone else read it over as well. A simple spelling mistake on a resume can give a negative impression to the employer. It can even prevent you from getting the job.
4. Limit your resume to two pages
Place the emphasis of your resume on your most recent experience. Older jobs and experience that are more than 15 years old should either be cut out or minimized. This way, the employer can focus on more relevant information.
5. Tailor your resume to suit the position you are applying for
Specify work experience or achievements that are related to the position you are applying to. This can be done by reviewing the job description or the employer website.
6. Highlight what you have accomplished
You want to be able to identify the best examples of where you demonstrated your skills. These examples should speak to what you achieved in your role, and should demonstrate what kind of employee you are. It is best to include this information in the “Work experience” section of the resume.
7. Be honest
Lying on your resume is never a good idea. You don’t want to overstate your skills or results as it will mislead the employer. Have confidence in what you have to offer.
8. Quantify your achievements
Use firm numbers that the employer will understand and be impressed by. For example, how many people you supervised, how many products you sold, by what percentage you increased sales, etc.
9. Use simple words and action verbs
The person reading your resume might not always be the employer. Resumes can be reviewed by recruiters or Human Resources specialists who may not be familiar with your specific field. Use simple and plain language, but also persuasive verbs such as handled, managed, led, developed, increased, accomplished, leveraged, etc.
10. Include unpaid work that show off your skills
If you have volunteered with a well-known organization or worked for an important cause, put it in your resume. You should include these experiences under the “Work experience” or the “Volunteer work” section, especially if they are related to the position you are applying for.
11. Double check and include your contact information
Your resume should list your name, address, email and phone number. This information should be placed at the top of the first page. Also, make sure this information is accurate. Otherwise, the employer won’t be able to contact you.
What to not do while creating a ATS friendly resume?
Now let’s jump into that section of do’s and don’ts of a modern resume where we discuss the things you should avoid.
1. Don’t Rush With Your Resume Writing
It’s strongly suggested not to start writing a resume right away. Always begin by putting together all the information you want to include in your modern resume.
Shortlist the information that’s really important and then start constructing your resume.
2. Don’t Make Your Resume Too Fancy
Be it the layout, color choice, or vocabulary, you should focus on making your resume simple and professional. You can leverage a writing app to maintain a friendly yet professional tone throughout the resume.
Your modern resume is not the place to be creative. It’s all about impressing the recruiters with the information you have.
3. Don’t Include an Objective
Writing an objective on top of your resume should be avoided. Instead of telling what you expect to receive from the employers, you should focus on showcasing what you bring to the table.
You could, however, let the employers know about your aspirations when you’re taking the onboarding survey for employees.
4. Don’t Share Personal Details
I would suggest not sharing certain personal details that aren’t necessary for the recruiters to know.
Your name, address, and contact details are all that they need to know in the initial stage. If required, the manager will ask for additional information personally.
5. Don’t Use Passive Voice
It’s not a good practice to use passive voice in your resume. Such sentences typically aren’t very engaging and that’s exactly what you wouldn’t want to happen to your resume. Write active statements that are to the point and convincing.
6. Don’t Have Errors and Lies
Here’s another basic thing you shouldn’t do in your resume. A resume with typos or grammatical errors is absolutely not acceptable. Such mistakes must be corrected as they can put off your recruiters.
7. Don’t include references
An employer only requires references if they are seriously considering hiring you. Keep references on a separate sheet and provide them only when they are specifically requested.
8. Don’t include hobbies or interests
It is not recommended to mention hobbies because of the judgments potential employers can make. However, if your hobbies relate to the position, you may include them as they can demonstrate to the employer why you are a good fit.
Conclusion
In summary, creating a successful resume involves tailoring it to the job you’re applying for, highlighting your accomplishments, and keeping it concise. It’s also important to avoid using cliches or irrelevant information, and most importantly, never lie on your resume. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll be well on your way to creating a winning resume that will impress potential employers.