The world is full of creative people. Their trendsetting skills are displayed on social networks such as Pinterest and the global marketplace Etsy. In many cases, creativity is not just a pastime. People are leveraging their imaginative thinking to start ventures and land jobs. However, in some cases creativity can hinder people from getting jobs.
When it comes to résumés, it is important to leave creativity behind and stick to the basics. Numerous companies are using Applicant Tracking Systems to scan résumés. In 2010, it was said that about 50 percent of mid-sized companies were using these systems to manage high volumes of applications. Furthermore, about 70 percent of these companies reported successfully filling jobs this way.
While an employer may admire traits of creativity, an Automatic Tracking System (ATS) does not. It is important to ensure your résumé is able to get past an ATS. To make this possible, learn how these systems vet résumés and what you can do to pass the initial step of the hiring process.
How do Applicant Tracking Systems Work?
Often times, a résumé meets the ATS before landing on the desk of a recruiter. This software is created to rank résumés after scanning them for keywords. Different from SEO (search engine optimization) keywords, which highlight trending topics, an ATS looks for basic résumé lingo.
To be sure your résumé is compliant with ATS standards, it is necessary to understand what the system scans for. Two of the most important markers are the use of basic words and basic files.
Optimize Your Résumé to Pass ATS
It is sad to say that in many cases your résumé will only be read by a machine. Under some circumstances, it may only get an eight-second glance from a recruiter. Using basic wording ensures the document is easy to scan by an ATS and human. Here are two simple wording techniques:
Basic Wording
- Use common résumé terms like education, certifications, work experience, etc. instead of creative terms. I.E. use “education” instead of “schooling,” and “work experience” rather than “trade study.”
- Before naming your profession, use “profile.” I.E. Profile: Language Arts Teacher.
In addition, it is important to use basic files.
Basic Files
- Avoid using tables and graph settings on a Microsoft Word document. Most ATSs will not pick up this information.
- Only send résumés in Microsoft Word format, as this is a universal file type. Never send a PDF. These file formats are not always recognizable.
When applying for a job, it is natural to want to stand out among the other applicants. However, instead of using graphics and flowery language to make your résumé pop, stick to the basics. This can help your résumé successfully pass an ATS and perhaps land on the desk of a decision maker. Then, you’ll really stand out.
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