Applicant tracking systems: How to make your resume pass

Have you applied for several roles but haven’t been invited to a job interview? If so, the issue may not be your experience or skills — it could be that your resume isn’t getting past applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Many employers now use ATS software to screen job applications before a recruiter ever sees them. This means your resume must be structured, worded and formatted in a way the system can read and assess correctly.

So, what exactly are applicant tracking systems, and how can you ensure your resume passes them?

What are Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)?

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software programs used by employers to manage and screen job applications. They automatically filter applications to determine whether candidates meet minimum requirements — such as qualifications, skills and years of experience — before organising and ranking them for review by a recruiter.

Why do employers use them?

One of the main reasons employers use ATS is to quickly filter out candidates who do not meet the requirements of a role. This saves them valuable time during the recruitment process.

ATS also allow employers to store applications on file, making it easier to revisit suitable candidates when future job opportunities arise.

How to pass ATS tracking systems

Read instructions carefully

Always follow the application instructions for each role. If an employer asks for a PDF, submit a PDF. If they request a Word document, submit a Word document.

Failing to follow these basic requirements can cause your application to be rejected or incorrectly processed before it reaches a recruiter.

Use keywords

Include relevant keywords and phrases from the job description in your resume and application. ATS software scans for these terms to assess how closely your skills and experience match the role.

Where possible, use variations of keywords, but make sure they are included naturally and not “stuffed in”. Overusing keywords can make your resume harder to read and may work against you.

Using the right keywords can significantly improve your chances of being identified as a strong match and having your application passed on to a recruiter.

Keep your application simple

Avoid over-complicating your resume with complex fonts, tables or charts, as these can be difficult for ATS software to read.

Using a clean layout and a simple, professional font helps ensure your application is easily scanned and correctly processed.

Use simple, straightforward headings

Using clear, straightforward headings throughout your resume makes it easier for both recruiters and applicant tracking systems (ATS) to read and understand your information. Avoid creative or unusual section titles, as these may not be recognised by ATS software.

Common resume headings include:
• Contact information
• Summary
• Work experience
• Education
• Skills
• Certificates and training
This approach helps ensure your resume is accurately scanned and your experience is clearly presented.

Customise your application

Tailor your resume and application for each role you apply for to ensure it aligns with the job requirements.

Customise your content — particularly skills, experience and keywords. This can improve how your application is assessed by ATS software.

Designing a resume that meets employer expectations and successfully passes applicant tracking systems can be challenging — particularly when each role has different requirements and keywords. Small mistakes in structure, wording or formatting can prevent an otherwise strong application from reaching a recruiter.

If you’re looking to take the stress out of the process, Selection Criteria Writers can help. We offer professional resume writing and LinkedIn profile writing services. Our services are designed to improve your chances of getting shortlisted and securing interviews.

Article References

Indeed (n.d) ‘What Are Applicant Tracking Systems? The Ultimate Guide’, Indeed, accessed 8 January 2025.

Seek (5 August 2025) ‘Tips for creating an ATS-friendly resumé’, Seek, accessed 8 January 2025.