In today’s competitive job market, getting your resume noticed is the first step toward landing your dream job. 

However, with the increasing use of AI-driven technologies like resume parsers, applicant tracking systems (ATS), and other HR softwares, it’s crucial to craft your resume in a way that ensures it passes through these automated systems effectively. 

About 75% of Resumes Are Rejected by Parsers & ATS Before Reaching a Recruiter. In this blog, we’ll explore the key elements to optimize your resume for AI parsers like Recrew (Know more), ensuring that your qualifications shine through in front of recruiters and HR professionals.

Types of Files: Choose the Right Format

When submitting your resume, the file format is critical. Most resume parsers and applicant tracking systems are optimized to read certain file types. The safest formats to use are:

• PDF: Widely accepted and preserves your formatting across different devices.

• DOC or DOCX: These formats are often preferred by older systems but are still compatible with most modern ATS.

• TXT: While plain text can be a fallback, it’s not recommended due to the lack of formatting.

Avoid using formats like JPEG or PNG, as these are typically not readable by resume parsers. Ensuring that your file is in an ATS-friendly format is the first step toward success.

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Simplicity: Less Is More

Simplicity is key when crafting a resume for AI parsers. Fancy designs, intricate layouts, and complex formatting may look visually appealing but can confuse resume parsers. 

Stick to a clean, simple layout that emphasizes readability.

• Use plain text wherever possible.

• Avoid embedding images or graphics, as they can interfere with parsing.

• Keep bullet points and lists straightforward and uniform.

By focusing on simplicity, you ensure that the resume parser accurately reads and interprets your information, increasing your chances of being shortlisted by the best recruiting softwares out there.

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Basic Fonts: Stick to the Classics

The type of font you use can significantly impact how your resume is processed by AI-driven HR systems. Stick to basic, widely-used fonts that are easy to read:

• Arial

• Times New Roman

• Calibri

• Verdana

These fonts are favored by most resume parsers and ensure that your text is processed correctly. Avoid decorative or script fonts, which may not be recognized by the parsing software.

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No Columns: Keep It Linear

While using columns might help save space or create a unique layout, they can cause problems for resume parsers. AI-driven systems often read resumes linearly, from left to right and top to bottom. 

When you use columns, the parser might misinterpret the order of your content, leading to confusion.

Instead of columns, opt for a single-column format with clear section headings. This approach ensures that your resume is read in the correct sequence, giving you a better chance of passing through the ATS unscathed.

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Length: The Goldilocks Rule

While there’s no one-size-fits-all rule for resume length, it’s essential to strike the right balance. 

A resume that’s too long may include unnecessary details that dilute your key qualifications, while one that’s too short might leave out important information.

For most candidates:

• One page is sufficient if you have less than 10 years of experience.

• Two pages can be acceptable if you have extensive experience or relevant qualifications.

The key is to be concise while ensuring you include all pertinent information. Remember, resume parsers and CV parsers prioritize relevant content over length.

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Keywords: Speak the ATS Language

Keywords are the backbone of any AI-optimized resume. HR systems and applicant tracking systems scan resumes for specific keywords related to the job description. 

To increase your chances of being selected, your resume must include:

• Relevant industry terms: Include keywords from the job posting, such as “project management,” “data analysis,” or “software development.”

• Action verbs: Use powerful action verbs like “led,” “developed,” “designed,” or “implemented” to demonstrate your experience.

• Job-specific terminology: Tailor your resume for each application by incorporating keywords that align with the role you’re applying for.

Using the right keywords will help your resume rank higher in the ATS, bringing you one step closer to an interview.

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Nice Formatting: Keep It Professional

While simplicity is essential, it doesn’t mean your resume has to look dull. Proper formatting can enhance readability without compromising ATS compatibility:

• Use consistent spacing and alignment: Ensure that your margins, spacing, and alignment are uniform throughout the document.

• Bold and italics: Use these features sparingly to highlight important sections, but avoid overusing them, as they can confuse parsers.

• Bullet points: Use bullet points to list your achievements, responsibilities, and skills. This makes it easier for both parsers and human recruiters to scan your resume.

By balancing simplicity with nice formatting, you create a resume that looks professional and is easy to read for both machines and humans.

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Important Headers: Structure Your Content

Headers play a crucial role in guiding both resume parsers and recruiters through your resume. Make sure to include the following headers:

• Contact Information: At the top, include your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable).

• Summary or Objective: A brief overview of your qualifications and career goals.

• Work Experience: List your work history in reverse chronological order, with clear job titles and dates.

• Education: Include your educational background, with the most recent degree first.

• Skills: Highlight relevant skills that match the job description.

These headers help structure your resume, making it easier for AI parsers to categorize and prioritize the information, ultimately improving your chances of being noticed by the HR software.

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Conclusion

Optimizing your resume for AI parsers is no longer optional in today’s digital hiring landscape. 

By focusing on file format, simplicity, basic fonts, linear layouts, appropriate length, keywords, professional formatting, and important headers, you can ensure that your resume not only passes through the best recruiting software but also stands out to HR professionals.

Remember, your resume is your first impression—make it count by crafting it to meet the needs of both the technology and the people behind the hiring process.