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Job Scan Common ATS Resume Formatting Mistakes

An ATS is a software application used by employers to manage the hiring process. It collects, sorts, and ranks resumes based on certain criteria. This technology helps hiring managers quickly identify the most qualified candidates, saving time and money. 

There are four basic steps to how an ATS works:

1. Job Requisition: The ATS receives a job requisition that includes the job title, desired skills, and required experience.
2. Resume Submission: Applicants submit their resumes to the ATS.
3. Resume Parsing: The ATS parses, sorts, and ranks the resumes based on how well they match the job description.
4. Filtering and Ranking: Recruiters filter resumes by searching for key skills and job titles, often using complex search queries.

For example, if a recruiter searches for "Administrative Assistant AND data entry AND payroll," only resumes containing these terms will be highlighted. 

Here are some tips to optimize your resume for ATS:

● Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job description.
● Use Keywords: Match your resume keywords to the job description.
● Use Standard Formats: Avoid complex formatting, headers, footers, and special
characters.
● File Type: Submit your resume in PDF format or Word in some cases.
● Use Simple Fonts: Stick to traditional fonts like Helvetica, Garamond, or Georgia.
● Avoid Graphics: Keep your resume text-based.
● Use Standard Headings: Use headings like "Work Experience" and "Education."

● Resume Parsing: Extracts data from resumes such as contact information, work history,
education, and skills.
● Advanced Search: Filters applications by keywords, job titles, skills, experience, and
education.
● Candidate Sourcing: Actively searches for potential candidates using multiple
channels.
● Email Templates: Ensures consistent and professional communication with candidates.
● Advanced Analytics and Reporting: Generates detailed reports on hiring trends and
other data.
● Interview Scheduling: Automates the scheduling of interviews.

While ATS can save time, they are not perfect. Many qualified candidates are overlooked because their resumes do not contain the right keywords. To increase your chances, make sure your resume contains the exact keywords that employers are searching for.

Over 97% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS, and the adoption rate is growing among smaller organizations as well. If you’re applying to a large organization or through an online form, you are likely interacting with an ATS.

Employers receive hundreds of resumes for each job opening. ATS software simplifies and speeds up the hiring process, making it easier for employers to manage large volumes of applications.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is making ATS more sophisticated. Future systems are expected to be fully integrated with social media platforms and use AI-powered chatbots for initial candidate interactions.

Use a resume scanner like Jobscan to test your resume against job descriptions. Jobscan provides a score and highlights missing keywords, helping you optimize your resume for ATS.