How to write an ATS friendly resume

Why those without an ATS friendly resume will be left behind

Did you know that not all job applications are read by a human? Instead, they must first pass through what is known as an applicant tracking system to determine eligibility and suitability.

If your application fails to pass an ATS, you may miss out on a role regardless of your skills and experience.

So, what is an applicant tracking system, and how do you ensure your application passes one?

What are applicant tracking systems?

Applicant tracking systems are types of software that filter through applications for particular jobs. They check that applications meet requirements. Increasingly relying on artificial intelligence tools, they read applications and attachments and add them to a database. This allows employers to search for specific keywords, qualifications and attributes.

Applicant tracking systems are commonly used when hiring for public sector positions.

Why do employers use them?

Employers use these systems to filter out candidates who don’t meet the basic criteria. For example, someone with two years experience may be filtered out of an application that requires four.

ATS also helps employers prioritise candidates based on how relevant or closely aligned they are with the job description.

Using an ATS also allows employers to keep candidate details on file in case they need them for future job openings.

How to create an ATS friendly resume

Ensure your application is submitted in the correct format

Carefully read the job description to ensure your application is formatted and uploaded in the correct format. For example, if the application requests a PDF resume; make sure you upload your resume as a PDF.

Include keywords

Applicant tracking systems typically scan resumes and cover letters for relevant keywords. Therefore, naturally integrating keywords from the job description into your application can help it progress to the next stage.

Try to include variations of keywords where possible.

Use standard headings

Using standardised headings helps applicant tracking systems read your resume more effectively.

For example, include clear sections such as Work Experience, Skills, Employment History, and Qualifications.

Tailor for each application

It’s important to tailor your application to each role you are applying for. This involves including skills and attributes relevant to the position and keywords that are included in the job description.

Use a simple font

Many applicant tracking systems prefer documents that use a plain, simple, font. This is because complex fonts or formatting can sometimes confuse the system, leading to your application being rejected. Examples of simple fonts include Times New Roman, Calibri and Arial.

Carefully selecting your font can help your resume make it past an applicant tracking system. Avoid using too many graphics, bright colours or images as these can confuse an ATS.

Seek expert advice

It’s not always easy to write a resume that will pass an applicant tracking system. A high-quality, professionally written resume and cover letter will naturally include relevant keywords, helping your application move from an ATS into the hands of a human.

Need help getting your application through an ATS?

Crafting a resume that meets both ATS requirements and impresses hiring managers can be challenging. That’s where we come in.

At Public Service Resumes, our expert writers understand how applicant tracking systems work — especially for public sector roles. We offer tailored resume support and cover letter writing services that help your application reach the next stage and stand out from the crowd.