7 Resume Hacks To Get Past Applicant Tracking Systems [Video Webinar]

Have you ever applied for a job and never heard back? It could be because your resume landed in the “black hole” thanks to an applicant tracking system (ATS) – software that reviews resumes before they ever reach the hiring manager’s desk.

Being automatically rejected by the ATS is extremely frustrating, but there are things you can do to adjust your resume and increase your chances of landing in the “yes” pile.

Check out our Premium webinar, “7 Resume Hacks To Get Past Applicant Tracking Systems,” to learn the secrets to optimizing your resume for ATS, beating the resume robots, and getting more interviews:

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iHire’s certified resume writers cover these seven tips for creating an ATS-friendly resume:

Hack #1: Update Your Resume for Every Application

Tailor your resume for each job by incorporating relevant keywords from the job description. Simple updates can significantly increase your chances of getting past the ATS, which scans your resume for specific terminology.

Hack #2: Don’t Misuse Graphics, Images & Charts

While visuals can enhance creativity, it’s vital not to embed critical information within graphics since ATS cannot read them. If you use an image or chart to highlight an achievement, also include details about that achievement in text.

Hack #3: Don’t Put Your Contact Info in a First-Page Header

Optimize your resume for ATS platforms by putting your contact details at the top of your document without using a header. Some systems might not read information in headers or footers.

Hack #4: Keep It Short and Sweet

Even if you have an ATS-friendly resume that makes it past the robots, hiring managers typically spend only six seconds reading resumes during their initial reviews. Use concise bullet points and limit paragraphs to five lines for maximum impact.

Hack #5: Less Is More

Don’t go overboard with your resume’s design and format! Select just two complementary fonts and avoid excessive colors and styles that may distract ATS as well as human readers.

Hack #6: Properly Format Your Document

Ensure your resume uses proper alignment, appropriate margins, and clearly formatted sections. A clean format aids ATS in parsing your information effectively.

Hack #7: Proofread (and Proofread Again)

Accuracy is non-negotiable. Meticulously check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors to make your first impression count.

Get even more resume help in our Resource Center and explore our professional resume and cover letter writing services. You can also use our Resume Builder to easily improve your existing resume or create a new one in minutes.