How to Create an ATS friendly Resume That Gets Noticed

In today’s competitive job market, submitting a resume that doesn’t pass through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can mean missing out on an interview. As an experienced team at Melbourne Resume, we understand the importance of crafting an ATS friendly resume that not only gets through the initial screening but also stands out to hiring managers. Here’s how you can create a resume that gets noticed.

What is an ATS and Why Does it Matter?

An ATS is software used by recruiters and employers to sort, scan, and rank resumes. It helps streamline the hiring process by identifying candidates who match specific job requirements. However, many resumes are filtered out simply because they’re not optimised for ATS, even if the applicant is highly qualified.

Creating an ATS friendly resume ensures your application isn’t discarded before a human even sees it. At Melbourne Resume, we specialise in crafting resumes that are both ATS optimised and visually appealing to recruiters.

Key Features of an ATS friendly Resume

1. Use Simple Formatting

ATS systems often struggle to read complex formatting, so keep your design clean and professional. Use:

• Standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
• Consistent font sizes.
• Simple bullet points for lists.
• Avoid graphics, tables, or fancy borders.

2. Include Relevant Keywords

To pass the ATS, your resume must contain keywords from the job description. These are often skills, qualifications, or specific software knowledge. For example:

• If the job description requires “project management,” ensure this phrase appears in your resume.
• Use variations where applicable, such as “managed projects” or “project manager.”

At Melbourne Resume, we conduct detailed job analysis to identify the right keywords for your targeted roles.

3. Stick to Standard Headings

ATS software scans for familiar headings to categorise information. Use clear labels like:

• Professional Summary
• Work Experience
• Education
• Skills

Avoid creative or vague headings such as “What I Bring to the Table” or “My Journey.”

4. Optimise Your Work Experience

List your work history in reverse chronological order, focusing on achievements and results. Use measurable outcomes, such as:

• “Increased sales by 25% over two years.”
• “Implemented a new CRM system, reducing response times by 15%.”

5. Save in the Right Format

Most ATS systems prefer resumes in Word format (.doc or .docx) or as plain text (.txt). PDFs can sometimes cause parsing errors, so always check the job posting for preferred file formats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading with Keywords: While keywords are important, overstuffing your resume can make it appear unnatural and could get flagged.
• Using Unreadable Fonts or Colors: Stick to black text on a white background with a legible font size.
• Neglecting Customisation: Tailor your resume for each job application to align with the specific requirements.

How Melbourne Resume Can Help

At Melbourne Resume, we take the guesswork out of creating an ATS resume. Our professional writers:

• Research your target roles to identify crucial keywords.
• Structure your resume for optimal ATS readability.
• Highlight your skills and accomplishments in a way that appeals to both software and recruiters.

With our expertise, you can feel confident that your resume will make it past the ATS and into the hands of hiring managers.

Final Thoughts

An ATS friendly resume is essential for today’s job applications. By using simple formatting, relevant keywords, and clear headings, you can increase your chances of landing an interview. If you’re ready to take your job search to the next level, Melbourne Resume is here to help. Let us craft a winning resume that opens doors to your dream career.