How to Create an ATS Friendly Resume That Gets You Hired in 2025

Want your resume to stand out but keep getting ghosted by recruiters? You might be losing to an ATS (Applicant Tracking System), not another human. Today, beating the ATS means the difference between landing an interview and landing in the resume black hole.

Here’s how to craft an ATS-friendly resume that not only gets past the robots but impresses real recruiters, plus a few pro secrets you won’t find elsewhere.

What Is an ATS and Why Does It Matter?

Most companies today use applicant tracking systems to filter resumes before a human ever reads them. These systems scan for specific keywords, job titles, and formatting that match the job description. If your resume doesn’t make the cut, it won't ever be seen by a decision-maker.

Here’s the catch: It's not just about having the right skills, but also about how you present them.

6 Unique Steps to an ATS-Friendly Resume

1. Mirror the Job Description But Do It Smartly

Use the exact job title and skills from the job posting in your headline and skills section. If the job wants a “Digital Marketing Specialist,” don’t call yourself a “Digital Marketing Guru” or “Online Growth Ninja.” The ATS seeks exact matches.
For every role you apply to, customize your resume by weaving in role-specific keywords and phrases.

2. Standard Fonts and Headings Only

Use professional fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, size 10–12 for text and a bit larger for section headings.
Section headers like “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” and “Certifications” are recognized by ALL ATS systems.

⁠⁠3. Ditch Irrelevant Sections and Add Only What Counts

Focus on past achievements that match the job, quantified where possible (“Increased revenue by 15%,” “Led team of 8”).
Use bullet points and action verbs: Developed, Managed, Increased, Launched, not Responsible for.

4. Optimize for Both Robots and Humans

After ranking well in the ATS, a recruiter (finally!) looks at your resume. So, be concise, avoid keyword stuffing, and let your results shine in plain English.

5. File Format: .pdf is Still King

While docx work for most systems today, some older ATS bots still choke on them. Unless instructed otherwise, submit as a .pdf.

6. Proofread Like Your Interview Depends On It Because It Does

The smallest error can trip up ATS parsing or make you look careless.

Want an Easier Way to Land the Right Job? Try InRadius!

Passing the ATS is just one part of the job hunt. The other is finding an opportunity that fits your lifestyle and location. InRadius helps you search for jobs based on the travel distance you choose, so you only see roles near your home or in your preferred area. No more wasting time on positions across town or in another city. With inradius, you can focus your energy on great opportunities close to where you live, making work-life balance easier from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an ATS-friendly resume?
An ATS-friendly resume is formatted and worded so that applicant tracking systems can easily read, understand, and rank it—using standard section headings, clear fonts, and carefully chosen keywords.
Why do companies use ATS software?
ATS software helps employers manage large volumes of applications. It quickly scans for specific skills, experience, and keywords relevant to the job description.
How do I know if my resume will pass ATS screening?
The best way is to use a resume scanner tool that shows ATS compatibility, or to ensure your resume matches the format and wording suggested by career experts.
Which file format is safest for ATS submission?
Submit your resume as a .docx file unless the job posting specifies otherwise. Some older ATS can’t read PDF or image files.
What kind of fonts and styles should I use?
Choose simple fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in size 10–12 with standard margins. Avoid graphics, multiple columns, or colored backgrounds.
How many keywords should I include?
Use every essential keyword from the job posting naturally throughout your resume. Two to three mentions per keyword is optimal, but avoid artificial “keyword stuffing.”
Should I include a summary or objective statement?
A brief professional summary at the top, containing your most relevant skills and experience, is highly recommended for both ATS ranking and recruiter impact.
Can I use tables or graphics on my resume?
No. Tables, graphics, icons, and images can confuse ATS systems or cause information to be skipped entirely.
Do cover letters matter for ATS?
Most ATS focus on your resume, but a tailored cover letter can help you stand out to recruiters once you pass the initial screen.
Is it okay to include personal hobbies or interests?
Only if they’re directly relevant to the job. Otherwise, use that space for professional skills and achievements.
Should I list every job I’ve ever had?
Focus on the last 10–15 years of experience and only include roles relevant to the position you’re applying for.
Is it safe to use resume templates from the internet?
Many templates look good but aren’t ATS compatible. The safest route is a plain, single-column design, or use a trusted ATS-checker tool.
How specific should my job titles and achievements be?
Use exact job titles from the posting and quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., “Managed team of 10,” “Grew sales by 20%”).
Do I need separate resumes for every job I apply to?
Yes, minor customization for each application dramatically boosts ATS ranking and your chances with recruiters.
Can including certifications or online courses improve my ATS score?
⁠Absolutely. Listing relevant certifications and completed online courses can boost your resume’s keyword match with the job description and show employers you’re proactive about professional development. Just be sure to use the exact title like “Google Data Analytics Certificate” or “Certified Project Manager” so the ATS recognizes and flags them if they’re part of the employer’s requirements.

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