Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and your job search

What is an ATS and how does it work?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by employers to collect, organize and screen job applications.

When you apply for a job, the system reads your resumé, extracts key information and compares it to the job requirements. Applications may be ranked or filtered based on this match, and then a recruiter reviews selected candidates.

It's important to remember that the ATS does not make final hiring decisions. A person decides what criteria matter, reviews applications and decides who moves forward. This means your resumé should work well for both the system and the person reading it. Clear, relevant and well-written content is always the most important factor.

ATS myths and facts

• Myth: ATS automatically rejects most applications.
• Reality: The ATS helps organize applications so recruiters can review them more efficiently.
• Myth: You need to trick the system with hidden keywords.
• Reality: "Tricking" the system is not effective because a recruiter will still read your resumé.
• Myth: All employers use ATS.
• Reality: Many organizations only review applications manually, especially smaller organizations. 

ATS-friendly resumé formatting

Using simple, clear formatting ensures the ATS can read your résumé correctly.

Best practices include:

• Using standard headings such as Work Experience, Education and Skills
• Choosing simple fonts like Arial or Calibri
• Using bullet points
• Aligning text to the left
• Submiting your file in the format requested, typically .docx or PDF. If the job description does not specify the format, you can submit PDF as a default.

Avoid:

• Images or graphics
• Columns (keep to single-column format)
• Tables
• Text boxes
• Unusual fonts
• Important information placed in headers and footers

Keyword optimization

Applicant Tracking Systems rely on keywords to match your application to job postings.

Start by reviewing the job posting and identifying important skills and qualifications that align with your experience. Use similar language and keywords in your resumé and cover letter when it matches your qualifications.

You can include keywords in your work experience, skills and summary section (if you have one).

Focus on your hard and technical skills such as tools, software and certifications and use industry-specific terms. These are what ATS primarily scan for.

You can reference soft skills, but make sure they are anchored to a concrete action or result. For example, "Collaborated with a team of five to deliver a project ahead of schedule, demonstrating leadership and teamwork" is stronger than simply listing "teamwork." Weave these items into your experience bullets rather than listing them on their own.

Remember that a person will still review your application. Aim for clear, natural language that reflects how you would speak professionally. Avoid overly formal or robotic phrasing. Prioritize simple, direct wording that highlights what you did and the result.