Thursday 24 November 2022

How to Beat the Applicant Tracking System

The recruitment process is never easy, and of course, there are a variety of obstacles that can lead to mistakes you’re probably making on your resume without even realizing it.

When you’re applying for a job, the first thing you need to consider is how to beat an applicant tracking system
 
  1. List the job requirements keywords: 
    • Start by listing keywords from the job requirement. Most importantly, you understand the value of the skills in the job description and can pick out the key skills. 
    • Read through the job description and start to think through the lens of the employer. Pick out the most valuable key skills. 
  2. Write good examples demonstrating you meet the requirements of the keywords: 
    • The next step to beating an applicant tracking system is to demonstrate you can meet the requirements of the keywords. 
    • Take your list of keywords, and under each keyword start to write some achievements which demonstrate your experience. 
  3. Use the right format: 
    • To beat an applicant tracking system, you need to ensure you have formatted your resume correctly for the system to read.

Here are some quick tips: 
  • Don’t use multiple columns - keep your resume in a classic, one-column layout
  • Don’t use graphics, charts, icons, or table
  • Stick to the classic heading sections such as education, experience, and strengths
  • Use a common font such as Helvetica or Arial
  • Don’t overcomplicate your sentences, keep things concise and direct

If you follow these rules and write toward the keywords, you will improve your chances of beating an applicant tracking system.