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How to write an AI-friendly resume

The employment market is competitive, and it's no surprise that businesses depend on AI-based applicant tracking tools to sort through a flood of job applications. AI is used by organizations not just to speed up the resume screening process but also to minimize prejudice when limiting down applications. 

What are AI resume scanners?

Image for part: What are AI resume scanners?

Resume AI bots are computer programs used by employers and human resource specialists to assess applicants for job opportunities. Instead of sifting over thousands of resumes, the recruiter may utilize this technology to reduce the number of job applications they have to review.

Depending on a job specification, this application searches for the most suitable resumes using artificial intelligence. AI bots can minimize prejudice and assist companies in deciding the right candidate for the specific position, saving companies time during the recruiting process.

Indeed, 98 percent of businesses utilize an AI-enabled technology known as an Application Tracking System (ATS) to screen out applicants before a person evaluates applications. Organizations employ a range of products of these AI-powered platforms. And, not just big corporations use an ATS for the recruitment process.

According to reports, 50 percent of medium-sized enterprises currently incorporate various types of AI in their recruiting procedures.

If you wish to outwit the ATS's AI programs, there are few simple guidelines to apply and strategies to understand. And besides, while computers are effective at finding eligible individuals, they are not without flaws. 

You should not miss an opportunity to obtain your dream job by failing to meet a few of the core conditions for making it through the initial stage of resume screening.

Many firms use AI software, but not all tracking software is equal. Machine learning systems collect and analyze the material on your CV, selecting keywords based on the job criteria. The tracking software checks how often a keyword occurs in a CV and its relevancy to the position. Applicants are either discarded or selected at the end.

When an applicant is selected, their resume gets stored in the ATS, where an employer may locate applicants by utilizing keyword searches identical to how someone searches online. There are many AI-powered application tracking solutions available. How do you account for all of them? Here are the basic ground rules to follow;

  • Tweak your resume text with correct keywords. As previously said, an ATS evaluates if you're suitable or not depending on how well your phrases fit the criteria to the job requirements. Although a growing number of ATS system manufacturers can identify synonyms, many businesses continue to rely on exact strategies. For instance, the job post may request that the applicant have a solid history in "international affairs." If you typed "global affairs" rather than "international affairs," your CV may be ruled out since you did not utilize the precise wording specified by the company. Using a marker, select a few keywords that you may include in your resume. For example, if a job posting states, "Seeking a competent marketer with a solid history in copywriting, social networks, and email campaigns," you should include the terms "marketer," "copywriting," "social media," and "email marketing" in your resume.
  • Prevent writing valuable details in headers and footers. ATS AI systems may be unable to interpret and interpret data in an application's header and footer. Select other sections on your resume to provide significant facts such as contact details so that your data is correctly recorded and maintained.
  • Consider a hybrid resume style. A combination resume style is the industry norm that integrates a professional overview and core skills segment with a list of sequential accomplishments and job experience. It is the right approach because ATSs require information to be in chronological sequence to interpret it appropriately. To fit this style, you may pick from a variety of resume variations. Some businesses utilize a technology that converts your resume to plain text. Examine your resume in this form before sending it. You want to ensure that all your material is consistent and that the chronology of events remains logical. When structuring your CV, be careful to incorporate your experience in reverse chronological order so that the AI can convert it to clear text.
  • Minimize adding fancy style since the ATS will eventually transform the content to a text-only version using images or needless decorations will lower your chances of defeating the algorithms. When structuring, avoid things like images, graphics, custom bullets, colors used to emphasize text.
  • Confirm that your resume is compatible with ATS software. One trick to verify that your resume will clear an AI bot's checks is to copy/paste it into a simple text converter. Is the information disorganized? Was anything removed? If the simple text edition of your CV does not have complete information or has the segments restructured improperly, it will fail the ATS check.

Things to Avoid When Preparing an AI-Friendly Resume 

Image for part: Things to Avoid When Preparing an AI-Friendly Resume 

While AI-driven ATS programs are not flawless, they do assist hiring managers in locating the job applications of people who are genuinely suitable for a role more rapidly. Here are three common blunders that individuals make that you should eliminate;

  • Transparency is necessary at all stages of the hiring process. If you deceive the algorithm, it will eventually backfire because the human recruiter will finally review your application. Don't assume you can get away with submitting for numerous positions inside the same firm and same time. The artificial intelligence filtering technique isn't ideal, but it will surely alert you if you openly try to trick the software.
  • Do not employ ambiguous or vague terminology. In an attempt to adhere to ATS-friendly terms, the job seekers lose perspective of the larger vision of what they're attempting to express. You may still be precise when emphasizing your accomplishments and what sets you apart. Describe how you assisted the firm in accomplishing targets, increase sales, pioneer many projects, and so on.
  •  Don't overburden your CV with terms that you believe will get you inside the company. Because this the algorithm will flag it as fishy, and your interviewer will finally determine whether you aren't a suitable fit.

Resume-Writing Tips for a Human Employer

Image for part: Resume-Writing Tips for a Human Employer

After completing a digital form, it never harms to follow up with email communication to the recruiter in charge. You must still observe the corporation's employment method standards, but the special connection of contacting might be the gap between getting attention or not.

Determine who is the core decision-maker for the role is and write them a meaningful message. Even better, if you have connections within the firm, check if they can pitch for you and provide your CV to the appropriate individuals. Whenever you start looking for employment, you should establish and cultivate your network of individuals who can help you and vice versa.

Designing your CV for an ATS, evaluating your current professional relationships, and taking significant measures to expand them must be done simultaneously. Examine your LinkedIn profile to discover what ties you may make for yourself and others. It's also a good idea to join professional organizations and meetings related to your business and expertise.

If you want to know more about how to write AI-powered ATS resume, here is a guide on resume-writing tips to get past the AI-powered ATS.

Guidelines for passing AI-powered ATS

Image for part: Guidelines for passing AI-powered ATS

Consider these suggestions while developing your AI-friendly resume: 

  • Create your resume/CV for a human. Although an AI analyzer may examine your application before a recruiter, you should still create your resume for a person to read. If you pass through the AI applications, the manager responsible for recruiting is the following individual to view it.
  • Showcase your accomplishments. Utilize your experience segment to highlight successes that will catch the interest of a recruiter. An ATS AI can recognize relevant experiences and milestones.
  • Provide one resume. The software can tell whether an applicant has sent numerous applications. Be a truthful candidate, and post only one well-stated application.
  • Employ key phrases with caution. The AI systems can detect whether you are stuffing phrases into your CV. Strive to weave them in organically across your resume.
  • Incorporate both soft and hard talents. Recruiters may utilize AI technologies to determine whether candidates possess the exact skills they need. Assess the job requirements to determine which soft and hard capabilities to include. The soft skills enable you to collaborate with people, whereas your hard skills are your technical ability.
  • Include a synopsis. An overview is a one-sentence text that appears at the top of your document. It's a simple approach for you to include phrases containing a summary of your industry experience, abilities, and successes.
  • Prevent including details in your header and footer. Though it's usual to provide your contact details here, AI bots may not be able to notice it. Ideally, incorporate it in the document body.
  • Write another email as a follow-up. If you don't hear from the hiring manager, your application did not make it to the ATS system.
  • Applicability is essential.
  • Make your job history and knowledge appropriate to the task at hand. Relevancy is fundamental in excellent writing, but as ATS programs get more complex, the search terms they provide to their users are highly accurate. As a result, it's advisable to pare down your descriptions of previous employment that don't demonstrate your preparation for the career in consideration.
  • Use specific language and terms. Compare the wording of your CV to that of the job posting and the corporate website. If you believe that the terms Python developer" and "programmer with Python experience" mean the same thing, consider it again. To a recruiter, they may signify the same thing, but not to an ATS system. Use the precise terminology from the job posting when describing your qualifications, expertise, and long-term objectives. These are the phrases that the program will check for, and they could be the precise phrases that recruiters employ for specific keyword searches.
  • Prevent using visuals and pictures. It is okay to split your content with a couple of lines and text boxes for the advantage of human reviewers. However, most monitoring algorithms don't know how to handle pictures and sophisticated typefaces, as changes might make it tricky for the software to filter and categorize your CV. Use basic typefaces such as Times New Roman, Garamond, and Calibri.
  • Carefully consider if you're inclined to utilize a concealed white typeface to include more phrases and imply talents you don't have. Because when your application does eventually reach a human reviewer, they will quickly dismiss it, causing significant harm to your credibility. It's not worthwhile, specifically for a position that necessitates qualifications you don't possess. Increase the size of your skills segment, particularly if you have technical knowledge.
  • Fill up your resume skills segment with every professional certificate you have. Describe each software application you've ever employed from, Illustrator to iOS to your previous company's proprietary information processing platform.

Avoid the urge to structure your resume subsections unconventionally. Maintain your contact details at the top of the document, accompanied by a synopsis, educational qualifications, job background, and technical and soft skills.

Check out our guide on resume writing tips to get past Artificial Intelligence Screening.

Is it OK to use AI for a resume

Using AI tools to optimize or enhance your resume is generally acceptable and can be a helpful strategy. AI-powered resume builders and optimization tools can assist in tailoring your resume to specific job descriptions, ensuring that it includes relevant keywords and meets the expectations of applicant tracking systems (ATS). Here are some ways you can use AI for your resume;

Resume Optimization: AI tools can analyze job descriptions and provide suggestions for optimizing your resume. This includes recommending keywords, skills, and accomplishments that align with the specific job requirements.

Grammar and Formatting: AI-powered proofreading tools can help ensure your resume is free of grammatical errors and follows proper formatting guidelines. This enhances the overall professionalism of your document.

Customization for ATS: Many companies use ATS to screen resumes. AI tools can help you tailor your resume to match the criteria used by these systems, increasing the likelihood that your resume will pass through the initial screening process.

Resume Writing Assistance: AI-driven platforms can offer guidance on effective resume writing, providing tips on content structure, language use, and overall presentation.

Skills Matching: AI tools can analyze job descriptions and identify relevant skills, helping you emphasize the skills that are most in demand for a particular position.

However, it's important to note a few considerations;

  1. Accuracy Check: While AI tools can be helpful, it's crucial to manually review and verify the content generated or suggested by these tools. Make sure the details appropriately reflect your qualifications and experiences.
  2. Personalization: AI tools may provide general recommendations, but personalization based on your unique experiences and achievements is key. Tailor your resume to showcase what makes you a standout candidate.
  3. Ethical Use: Be cautious when using AI tools to avoid any unethical practices, such as inflating qualifications or using misleading information. Transparency and honesty in your resume are essential.

In summary, leveraging AI for resume optimization can be a valuable part of your job application strategy. However, it should complement your efforts, and the final version should be carefully reviewed to ensure accuracy and authenticity.

What is a ATS-friendly resume

An ATS-friendly resume is a resume that is optimized to successfully pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which are software used by many employers to streamline the hiring process. ATS is designed to scan, parse, and organize large volumes of resumes, helping recruiters and hiring managers filter through candidates efficiently. Take into consideration the following pointers to make sure your resume is ATS-friendly;

Use Standard Fonts: Stick to standard, easily readable fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid fancy or decorative fonts that may not be recognized by ATS.

Simple Formatting: Keep your resume formatting simple. Use standard headings (e.g., Work Experience, Education) and avoid complex tables, graphics, or text boxes that may confuse the ATS.

Use Standard Section Headings: Opt for standard section headings like "Professional Experience," "Education," and "Skills." This helps the ATS categorize your information accurately.

Include Relevant Keywords: Tailor your resume with keywords from the job description. ATS systems use these keywords to match your resume with the qualifications sought by the employer.

Avoid Special Characters: Steer clear of special characters, symbols, or unusual formatting. Stick to simple bullet points, hyphens, and standard punctuation.

Include a Skills Section: Create a dedicated skills section that lists key skills related to the job. Use relevant industry terminology and keywords.

Use a Simple File Format: Save your resume in a common file format such as .docx or .pdf. This ensures compatibility with most ATS systems.

Include Full Spellings: Use full spellings for acronyms and abbreviations, as ATS may not recognize abbreviations that are not explicitly defined.

Customize for Each Application: Tailor your resume for each job application by incorporating specific keywords and phrases from the job description.

Check for Compatibility: Before submitting your resume, use an ATS-friendly checker or an online ATS simulator to ensure that it can be properly read and parsed by common ATS systems.

By optimizing your resume for ATS, you increase the likelihood that your application will make it past the initial screening process and into the hands of human recruiters. Keep in mind that while an ATS-friendly resume is essential, it's equally important to create a document that is compelling and well-tailored to the specific job you're applying for.

How do I make my resume readable in AI

Creating a resume that is easily readable by AI involves optimizing its content and formatting to enhance machine readability. Here are some tips to achieve that;

  1. Use Standard Fonts: Stick to standard, easily recognizable fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid fancy fonts that may be difficult for AI to interpret.
  2. Structured Formatting: Organize your resume with clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting. It helps AI algorithms to understand the hierarchy and structure of the information.
  3. Keyword Optimization: Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description. Many AI systems use keyword matching to identify suitable candidates.
  4. Avoid Graphics and Images: While visually appealing, graphics and images may confuse AI algorithms. Stick to plain text and use standard resume sections like education, experience, skills, etc.
  5. Use Simple Language: Make sure your words are accurate and brief. Avoid overly complex sentences or jargon that might be difficult for AI to interpret.
  6. Include Metadata: Provide metadata such as date of birth, contact information, and location. It helps AI systems categorize and organize your information accurately.
  7. Standard Section Titles: Use standard section titles like "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills." This helps AI systems recognize and categorize different parts of your resume.
  8. Avoid Unusual Characters: Stick to standard characters and avoid using symbols, special characters, or formatting that might not be universally understood by AI parsers.
  9. Spell Out Acronyms: While humans might understand industry-specific acronyms, AI may not. Spell out acronyms at least once to ensure clarity.
  10. Plain Text Format: Save your resume in plain text (ASCII) format or use standard file formats like .docx or .pdf. These formats are more universally readable by AI.

Remember, the goal is to make your resume easily understandable by both human recruiters and AI systems. By following these guidelines, you can increase the chances of your resume being effectively processed by automated tools.

Should you use ChatGPT to write your resume

While ChatGPT and similar language models can be useful for generating content and ideas, it's generally not recommended to solely rely on them for writing your resume. Here are some reasons why;

  1. Lack of Personalization: ChatGPT generates text based on patterns learned from diverse sources, but it doesn't have personal knowledge about your specific experiences, skills, and achievements. A resume should be personalized and reflect your unique qualifications.
  2. Understanding of Industry Jargon: AI models may not fully understand industry-specific jargon or the nuanced language of certain professions. It's essential to communicate your expertise in a way that resonates with professionals in your field.
  3. Tailoring to Job Descriptions: Effective resumes are often tailored to specific job descriptions. While AI can help identify relevant keywords, the ability to tailor your resume to the specific requirements of a job posting is a skill best done with human judgment.
  4. Formatting and Style: AI models might not be proficient in the intricacies of resume formatting and style preferences. Human eyes often catch details that automated systems might miss.
  5. Lack of Context: AI lacks the ability to understand the broader context of your career, such as the specific challenges you've overcome or the impact you've had in previous roles. Providing this context can be crucial in a resume.

However, you can use ChatGPT as a supplementary tool to generate ideas, refine language, or overcome writer's block. You can draft sections of your resume and then edit and customize them based on your individual experiences and goals. Always review the final document yourself or seek feedback from others in your industry to ensure it accurately represents you and aligns with industry standards.

Can companies detect AI cover letters

Companies generally rely on applicant tracking systems (ATS) to manage and filter resumes and cover letters. These systems are designed to identify keywords, phrases, and relevant information to match candidates with job requirements. They don't specifically detect whether a cover letter has been generated by AI.

However, it's crucial to consider that the primary focus for companies is on the content and relevance of the cover letter rather than how it was created. If an AI-generated cover letter effectively addresses the job requirements, includes relevant keywords, and showcases your qualifications, it may pass through an ATS successfully.

That said, it's important to be honest and transparent in your job application. If a company specifically asks whether you used AI or any other tools to create your application materials, it's advisable to answer truthfully. Misrepresentation or dishonesty can have negative consequences if discovered.

Keep in mind that technology and hiring practices may evolve, so it's a good idea to stay informed about industry trends and any changes in application processes. Always tailor your cover letter to the specific job, showcase your genuine qualifications, and use AI tools as aids rather than replacements for your own thought and effort.

How do I avoid ATS on my resume

Avoiding ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is not advisable, as these systems are an integral part of the modern recruitment process. ATS is designed to help employers manage a large volume of resumes efficiently and identify candidates who best match the job requirements. Instead of trying to avoid ATS, focus on optimizing your resume to perform well within these systems. Here are some tips;

  1. Use Standard Formats: Stick to standard resume formats (such as .docx or .pdf) as these are more compatible with ATS. Avoid overly complex formats or unconventional file types.
  2. Include Relevant Keywords: Tailor your resume to the specific job by incorporating keywords from the job description. ATS often scans for these keywords to determine the relevance of your application.
  3. Simple Formatting: Keep your formatting simple and consistent. Avoid using headers, footers, or elaborate designs that might confuse ATS algorithms.
  4. Spell Out Acronyms: While industry acronyms might be familiar to humans, ATS may not recognize them. Spell out acronyms at least once to ensure clarity.
  5. Use Standard Section Headings: Employ standard section headings like "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills." It helps ATS categorize and understand the information in your resume.
  6. Avoid Graphics and Images: Graphics, images, and charts may not be interpreted correctly by ATS. Stick to plain text for optimal compatibility.
  7. Customize for Each Application: Tailor your resume for each job application by emphasizing the most relevant skills and experiences. It not only improves ATS performance but also enhances your chances of impressing human recruiters.
  8. Check Job Posting for Instructions: Some job postings provide specific instructions for formatting or submitting resumes. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure your resume is processed correctly.
  9. Proofread Your Resume: Typos and formatting errors can confuse ATS. Proofread your resume to ensure it's error-free and follows standard language conventions.
  10. Use a Simple Font: Stick to standard, easily readable fonts. Fancy or decorative fonts may not be recognized by ATS.

Remember, the goal is not to avoid ATS but to optimize your resume to perform well within these systems while still being effective for human readers. If you have concerns about your resume's compatibility with ATS, you can use online tools designed to test how well your resume may fare in applicant tracking systems.

How do I pass my CV through ATS

To increase the chances of your CV passing through ATS system, follow these tips;

  1. Tailor Your CV for Each Job: Customize your CV for each specific job by incorporating keywords from the job description. ATS often scans for these keywords to assess the relevance of your application.
  2. Use Standard Formats: Save your CV in standard formats such as .docx or .pdf. These formats are generally compatible with ATS. Avoid using unusual file types or complex formatting.
  3. Optimize Section Headings: Use standard section headings (e.g., "Work Experience," "Education," "Skills") to help ATS categorize your information correctly.
  4. Incorporate Keywords Naturally: Integrate relevant keywords naturally throughout your CV, especially in the skills and experience sections. However, avoid keyword stuffing, as the content should remain human-readable and authentic.
  5. Spell Out Acronyms: Spell out industry acronyms at least once to ensure clarity, as ATS may not recognize abbreviations.
  6. Use Simple Formatting: Stick to a clean and simple layout. Avoid complex designs, tables, or graphics that may confuse ATS algorithms.
  7. Check for Keywords in Context: Ensure that the keywords you use are relevant and make sense in the context of your work experience. ATS not only looks for keywords but also evaluates how well they align with the overall content.
  8. Include Relevant Skills: Create a dedicated skills section and list the key skills relevant to the job. Use a mix of hard and soft skills to provide a comprehensive overview of your abilities.
  9. Include Contact Information: Include your contact information at the top of your CV. This helps ATS categorize and organize your application.
  10. Proofread Your CV: Errors in your CV can be detrimental to both ATS and human reviewers. Proofread your CV to ensure accuracy in grammar, spelling, and formatting.
  11. Use a Simple Font: Stick to standard and easily readable fonts. This ensures that ATS can accurately process the text.
  12. Check for ATS Compatibility: Some online tools can help you assess how well your CV might perform in ATS. Consider using these tools to get insights into potential issues.

Remember that while optimizing for ATS is important, your CV should also be compelling and effective for human readers. Balancing both aspects increases your chances of success in the application process.

What is the best resume format for AI

When it comes to creating a resume that is easily readable by both humans and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), choosing the right format is crucial. Here are some tips for the best resume format for AI;

  1. Standard File Format: Save your resume in standard formats like .docx or .pdf. These formats are widely accepted and are compatible with ATS.
  2. Clean and Simple Layout: Opt for a clean and simple layout with clear headings and bullet points. Avoid overly complex designs or unconventional formatting that may confuse ATS algorithms.
  3. Use Standard Fonts: Stick to standard, easily readable fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid elaborate or decorative fonts that may not be recognized by ATS.
  4. Standard Section Headings: Organize your resume with standard section headings like "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills." This helps ATS categorize and understand the information more effectively.
  5. Keywords in Context: Integrate relevant keywords naturally into your resume, especially in the skills and experience sections. Ensure that keywords make sense in the context of your work experience.
  6. No Graphics or Images: Remove graphics, images, or charts from your resume. While visually appealing, these elements may not be interpreted correctly by ATS.
  7. Spell Out Acronyms: Spell out industry acronyms at least once to ensure clarity. ATS may not recognize abbreviations without context.
  8. Include Contact Information: Place your contact information prominently at the top of your resume. It helps ATS categorize your application accurately.
  9. Use a Simple Font Size: Maintain a standard font size throughout your resume. Avoid using very small or very large fonts that may affect ATS readability.
  10. Proofread for Errors: Errors in grammar, spelling, or formatting can hinder ATS processing. Proofread your resume to ensure accuracy.

Remember that the primary goal is to strike a balance between creating a visually appealing resume for human readers and ensuring it is easily parsed by ATS. 

Should I opt out of AI scanning my resume

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which often involve AI scanning are widely used by employers to manage and filter large volumes of resumes efficiently. These systems help match candidates with job requirements and streamline the hiring process. Here are a few considerations regarding AI scanning of resumes;

  1. Widespread Usage: ATS has become a standard part of the hiring process for many companies. Opting out of AI scanning could limit your opportunities, as your resume might not be processed effectively.
  2. Efficiency: AI scanning allows employers to review and shortlist candidates more efficiently. It helps them identify candidates whose qualifications match the job requirements.
  3. Standard Practices: Many job search platforms and application processes are designed to work seamlessly with ATS. Opting out might result in your resume not being compatible with these standard practices.
  4. Competitive Advantage: Well-optimized resumes that align with ATS requirements can give you a competitive advantage. By understanding how ATS works and tailoring your resume accordingly, you increase your chances of being noticed by employers.

If you're concerned about how ATS might affect your job search, consider the following tips;

  1. Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume for each job application by incorporating relevant keywords from the job description. This helps improve your chances of passing through ATS.
  2. Use Standard Formats: Save your resume in standard formats like .docx or .pdf, which are more compatible with ATS.
  3. Review Job Postings: Pay attention to the language used in job postings and incorporate similar phrases and keywords into your resume.
  4. Seek Professional Advice: If you're unsure about how to optimize your resume for ATS, consider seeking advice from career counselors or professional resume writers.

Always remember that while ATS is an important part of the hiring process, networking, personal connections, and a well-crafted resume are equally crucial in landing a job.

Why is ATS rejecting my CV

ATS (Applicant Tracking System) rejection can occur for various reasons, and understanding these factors can help you optimize your CV for better compatibility. Here are some common reasons why an ATS might reject your CV;

  1. Lack of Keywords: ATS scans for specific keywords and phrases relevant to the job description. If your CV doesn't include these keywords, it may be deemed less relevant and get rejected.
  2. Formatting Issues: Complex or unconventional formatting, including tables, charts, or images, can confuse ATS algorithms. Stick to a clean and simple layout using standard fonts and formats (e.g., .docx or .pdf).
  3. Incompatibility with File Format: Ensure that your CV is saved in a standard file format compatible with ATS. While .docx and .pdf are widely accepted, other formats might not be processed correctly.
  4. Unreadable Font: Using uncommon or overly stylized fonts may cause issues with ATS readability. Stick to standard, easily readable fonts.
  5. Missing Contact Information: If your contact information is not clearly presented at the top of your CV, ATS might have difficulty categorizing your application.
  6. No ATS-Optimized Skills Section: Include a dedicated skills section with relevant keywords. ATS often looks for a clear list of skills to assess your qualifications.
  7. Overuse of Headers/Footers: Excessive use of headers or footers can disrupt the parsing of your CV. Keep headers and footers to a minimum or avoid them altogether.
  8. Incomplete Profiles: Some ATS integrate with online job portals, and incomplete profiles on these platforms might lead to rejection. Ensure your profiles are updated and comprehensive.
  9. Spelling and Grammar Errors: Poor grammar and spelling mistakes can negatively impact your application. ATS and human reviewers alike may reject resumes with language issues.
  10. Excessive Use of Pronouns: While humans easily understand pronouns, ATS algorithms may have difficulty with them. Instead of using pronouns, opt for concise bullet points that begin with action verbs.
  11. Mismatched Job Titles: Ensure that your job titles match industry standards. ATS may not recognize unconventional or internally specific job titles.

To improve your CV's compatibility with ATS;

  1. Customize for Each Application: Tailor your CV for each job application by incorporating relevant keywords from the job description.
  2. Use ATS-Friendly Language: Use industry-specific language and terms to increase the chances of alignment with the ATS.
  3. Test with ATS Tools: There are online tools available that simulate ATS scanning. Use these tools to check how well your CV performs.

Which font is ATS-friendly

When it comes to creating a resume that is compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), it's advisable to use standard and easily readable fonts. ATS is designed to parse and analyze text, and using a font that is widely recognized can help ensure that your resume is processed correctly. Here are some ATS-friendly fonts;

  1. Arial: One simple sans-serif typeface that is easy to use is called Arial. It is widely used in professional documents and is easily recognizable by ATS.
  2. Calibri: Calibri is a modern and widely accepted font. It is a sans-serif font that offers a clean and professional appearance.
  3. Helvetica: Helvetica is a classic and widely used sans-serif font. Its simplicity and readability make it a good choice for resumes.
  4. Times New Roman: Times New Roman is a traditional serif font. While sans-serif fonts are generally recommended, Times New Roman is still widely accepted and readable.
  5. Georgia: Georgia is another serif font that is considered readable. It has a slightly more traditional feel compared to Times New Roman.
  6. Verdana: Verdana is a sans-serif font known for its clarity, especially at smaller sizes. It's a good choice for online documents.
  7. Cambria: Cambria is a serif font that is designed for readability on computer screens. It is clear and can be a suitable choice for ATS.

When using fonts for your resume, keep the following tips in mind:

  1. Choose a font size between 10 and 12 points for the main text.
  2. Use bold or italic styles sparingly for emphasis.
  3. Avoid decorative or script fonts, as they may not be recognized by ATS.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a clean, well-formatted document that is easily readable by both ATS and human reviewers. Stick to standard fonts to ensure compatibility and improve the chances of your resume passing through ATS successfully.

Is PDF Ok for ATS

Yes, PDF is generally a recommended file format for ATS. PDF (Portable Document Format) is widely accepted and compatible with most ATS platforms. Using PDF has several advantages;

  1. Consistent Formatting: PDF maintains consistent formatting across different devices and operating systems, ensuring that your resume looks the same to both ATS and human reviewers.
  2. Preservation of Layout: PDF preserves the layout and structure of your document, including fonts and formatting. This is important for ensuring that your resume is presented as intended.
  3. ATS Compatibility: Many ATS are designed to efficiently parse and analyze information from PDF documents. This makes PDF a suitable choice for submitting resumes online.
  4. Security: PDFs are less prone to unintentional alterations, providing a secure way to share your resume without worrying about formatting issues.

When saving your resume as a PDF for ATS, consider the following tips;

  1. Use Standard Fonts: Stick to standard and easily readable fonts to ensure that the text is recognized by ATS algorithms.
  2. Include Text (Avoid Scanned Images): If you have text within images, make sure it's also included as actual text in the PDF. Scanned images might not be parsed accurately.
  3. Optimize File Size: Keep your PDF file size reasonable. Large file sizes might cause issues during the uploading and processing stages.

While PDF is generally a safe choice, it's always a good practice to check the specific instructions provided by the employer or job application platform. Some ATS may have preferences or requirements regarding file formats, and it's essential to adhere to those guidelines for a smoother application process.

Is 2 page resume ok for ATS

While a two-page resume is generally acceptable, it's essential to strike a balance between providing comprehensive information about your qualifications and ensuring that the document remains concise and easy to read. Here are some considerations regarding the length of your resume in the context of Applicant Tracking Systems;

  1. Relevance and Customization: Optimize your resume for each job application by highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences. Include information that directly aligns with the job requirements. If your qualifications can be effectively presented in two pages, that's typically acceptable.
  2. Readability: ATS algorithms and human reviewers appreciate a clear and easy-to-read format. Ensure that your resume is well-organized with concise bullet points, clear headings, and appropriate use of white space.
  3. Keyword Optimization: Include relevant keywords from the job description throughout your resume. ATS often scans for these keywords to determine the suitability of your application.
  4. Career Level and Experience: The length of a resume often depends on your career level and the amount of relevant experience you have. Mid-career and senior-level professionals may have more extensive resumes, while entry-level candidates might opt for a more concise format.
  5. Education and Certifications: If you have advanced degrees, certifications, or additional qualifications relevant to the job, include them. However, prioritize the most important information to keep the resume focused.
  6. Recent and Impactful Experience: Emphasize recent and impactful experiences. While including your entire work history is not necessary, focusing on the last 10-15 years of relevant experience is common.
  7. Check Employer Preferences: Some employers may specify their preferences regarding resume length. Pay attention to any instructions provided in the job posting or on the company's application platform.

Remember that the primary goal is to create a compelling resume that effectively communicates your qualifications. If your two-page resume is well-organized, tailored to the job, and showcases your skills and achievements, it should be suitable for ATS and human reviewers alike.

Is there any AI for resume making

Yes, there are several AI-powered tools and platforms designed to assist with resume creation. These tools leverage artificial intelligence to analyze and optimize your resume content, format, and overall effectiveness. Here are a few AI powered resume builders;

  1. hipCVHipCV is a free online resume builder that allows you to create and track stylish professional resumes in minutes . It offers a wide range of templates to choose from, including ATS-friendly resume templates that are suitable for various job sectors such as medical, administration, law, or finance. HipCV’s resume builder is simple and intuitive, making resume writing fast and easy. It provides pre-written phrases and examples that can help you improve your chances of getting hired. It also offers a Pro Plan that includes lifetime access to its resume builder, cover letter builder, and job application tracking features.
  2. Kickresume: Offers an AI Resume Writer that can generate professional sections for your resume summary, work experience, and education, with a consistent tone throughout the document. It also provides an AI Cover Letter Writer that can generate a matching cover letter. Kickresume’s AI Resume Writer is powered by OpenAI’s GPT-4 NLP model, which is uniquely well-suited for generating structured documents such as resumes. 
  3. Rezi: Uses leading AI to automate every aspect of creating a hirable resume, including writing, editing, formatting, and optimizing. It is the only resume platform that offers such a comprehensive service. 
  4. Teal HQ: Provides a free online AI-powered resume builder that uses AI and GPT to build your resume. You can quickly create and edit resumes by uploading an existing resume or importing your LinkedIn profile.
  5. Resume Genius: Offers an AI-powered resume builder that can help you create a professional resume in minutes. It uses AI to analyze your resume and provide suggestions for improvement. 
  6. JobscanJobscan is a platform that uses AI to analyze how well your resume matches a job description. It provides a match rate and offers suggestions for improving your resume's relevance to a specific job.

Conclusion

Recruitment patterns are shifting, and with more applications comes a greater dependence on artificial intelligence. Eventually, AI bots help employers devote more time to relevant activities and connection development with top applicants. Nonetheless, constructing a CV that you know outperforms the machines and wows people may be frightening. Our resume builder tool can help you in creating a resume or CV to pass the ATS application. 

Ultimately, it's not worth the effort to create a CV that stands out from the crowd. It is preferable to keep it clean, easily readable, and relevant to the position you want. Failure to do so might result in lost chances since AI-powered ATS will prohibit your résumé from ever making it to the next phase of the recruitment process. 

If you want to distinguish yourself from other applicants, include some personality in your cover letter, which the recruiter will review once you pass the AI scanning test. With luck, you'll earn your chance to excel in a face-to-face interview after surviving the AI hurdle, which is the final objective of every job-seeker.

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