Job hunting tips in the world of AI: resume building

In today’s job market, most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes before a human ever sees them. These systems assess criteria such as keywords, formatting and structure to filter out applications that don’t meet job specifications.

Want to ensure your application gets seen by the right people? Try these tips to craft your resume.

Reference the job posting. Use the exact job title and phrasing from the posting throughout your resume. ATS systems prioritize keywords that reflect an employer’s requirements. If the job description mentions “project management” or “data analysis,” make sure those phrases appear prominently in your document. 

Keep it simple. Avoid fancy fonts, images, graphics or multi-column layouts. Although these design elements may be visually appealing, ATS systems often fail to read them correctly. This could lead to your resume being discarded.

Use conventional headings. Clearly label sections with traditional headings such as “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills” and “Certifications.” ATS systems recognize these common titles. Keep in mind that custom headings might not be parsed correctly, which could put your application at risk.

Use bullet points. Use standard bullet points to list your achievements and responsibilities. Avoid non-traditional symbols, such as stars, diamonds or checkboxes. ATS may not interpret these characters correctly. Start each bullet point with a strong action verb and use direct language to convey your accomplishments.

Finally, double- and triple-check your resume for errors. A simple typo within a critical keyword can result in your application being overlooked by the ATS. For added confidence, consider using an ATS resume checker to boost your chances of passing the initial screening.