Crafting the Perfect ATS-Compatible Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide

In the career coach article: Stress Test Your Resume, we mention how ATS compatible resume is a very important part of your job search and recruiter outreach.
A lot of you asked for more detail, so here is a deep dive into how to create an ATS compatible resume. There is also an amazingly effective format.

In today’s competitive job market, creating a resume that not only showcases your skills but also passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is crucial. ATS software is used by employers to filter resumes before they even reach human eyes. Here’s how to ensure your resume makes it through.

Why ATS Compatibility Matters

Many companies use ATS to streamline the hiring process. This software scans resumes for specific keywords and formatting, deciding which resumes are worth passing on to recruiters. If your resume isn’t ATS-friendly, it might never be seen, no matter how qualified you are.

Steps to Create an ATS-Compatible Resume

1. Use the Right Template

Start with an ATS-friendly template like the one provided here. This template is designed to meet ATS standards while still being visually appealing to human readers.

2. Optimize Your Content

• Professional Summary: Craft a concise, keyword-rich summary that highlights your career achievements and goals.

• Core Competencies: Include a section with bullet points listing your key skills and competencies. Ensure these align with the job description.

• Work Experience: Detail your professional history, focusing on achievements that are quantifiable and relevant to the position you’re targeting.

• Education & Certifications: List your educational background and any relevant certifications.

3. Formatting for ATS

• Fonts and Bullet Points: Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman, and keep bullet points simple.

• No Graphics or Tables: ATS systems can’t read graphics, images, or complex tables, so avoid them.

• File Format: Save your resume as a .docx file, which is most compatible with ATS software.

4. Test Your Resume

Before submitting, use tools like Jobscan or submit your resume to Eclat Hospitality. Upload it here, then email notifications@eclathospitality.com with “RESUME UPLOADED.” We’ll check how well the ATS reads your resume and provide feedback.

5. Make a Copy

Before you begin editing, make a copy of the template document. Save it using your full name and the date (e.g., “Jane_Doe_Resume_Aug2024”). This ensures you have a personalized version to work from.

Why This Matters

Crafting an ATS-compatible resume can be the difference between landing an interview and getting lost in the system. By following these steps, you’ll enhance your chances of making it through the initial screening process.

Final Thoughts

Your resume is often your first impression—make it count. With the right approach, you can create a document that not only gets past the bots but also impresses potential employers.

If you would like to use an AI tool to generate an ATS compatible resume, here is a prompt that works:

Prompt:

“Hello, ChatGPT! I need help converting my resume into an ATS-compatible format. Here’s my current resume content:

1. Professional Summary: [Insert your summary here]

2. Core Competencies/Skills: [List your skills]

3. Professional Experience: [Detail your job history with roles, companies, dates, and key achievements]

4. Education: [Include your degrees and certifications]

5. Additional Sections: [List any other relevant sections like languages, awards, volunteer work, etc.]

Please optimize the content for ATS by using appropriate keywords, simplifying the format, and ensuring it adheres to ATS best practices. Also, make sure it’s structured for readability by both ATS systems and recruiters. Thank you!”

This prompt provides the necessary details and context to ensure the conversion process is smooth and effective.

If you would like to upload your resume and have an AI agent give you an ATS compatible resume, use this prompt:

Prompt:

“Hi, ChatGPT! I’d like to convert my current resume into an ATS-compatible format. My resume currently includes images, tables, and some non-standard formatting that may not be ATS-friendly. I’ve attached my resume [attach file] for your reference.

Could you please:

1. Remove any images, tables, and complex formatting.

2. Structure the content in a simple, ATS-friendly format.

3. Optimize the resume for ATS readability while maintaining the key details and achievements.

Thank you!”

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