What Are the Resume Formats For Screening Software?

When submitting your resume to employers, you may wonder: What are the best formats for an ATS? Generally, the answer depends on the type of applicant screening software. Human reviewers can also understand bulleted point forms. Standard round bullets are acceptable, but you should avoid using other styles. ATS-friendly resumes should also be longer than two pages. ATS-friendly resumes should also avoid extra spaces between words, justifying text, and left-aligning all text.

Reverse chronological

The reverse chronological resume format has been around for almost as long as resumes themselves. It offers a more traditional way to display your employment history, but this format doesn't always work as well for recent graduates who may not have relevant work experience. Reverse chronological resumes are also prone to highlighting gaps in employment, which puts you at a disadvantage if the employer does not have any prior knowledge of your work history.

The first thing to keep in mind is that the screening software looks for keywords and phrases when scanning your resume. For instance, the reverse chronological format will give greater weight to keywords and phrases found in the job description. When writing the resume, include metrics that show the value of your previous positions. You can find some examples of chronological resume formats HERE. This way, you can tailor your resume to each job application. And while you're at it, don't forget to add a few extra sections.

Hybrid

While both chronological and functional resumes are effective, a hybrid format combines them for maximum impact. A hybrid resume format combines all the advantages of the previous two formats while giving equal emphasis to work experience and skills. This format also makes it easy to highlight key information in one location. When choosing a hybrid format, consider your career stage, whether you have a break or not, and your career goals. Then, select the appropriate format.

A good ATS-friendly resume template will use chronological data to parse the text and identify grammar and spelling errors. ATS will miss information that is formatted in tables, columns, and text boxes. For this reason, it is crucial to choose a format that reflects your work history and skill set. However, ATS will only recognize resumes in docx and pdf file types. This way, you can ensure the best possible performance of the software and increase the chance of your application being screened by hiring managers.

Plain-text

When applying for a job, applicants should submit a plain-text resume format rather than a PDF or Word document. This is because ATS software cannot read special formatting. A resume that is in a word-processing format may be rejected. A plain-text resume format is not only easier for ATS software to read, but also allows for more flexibility and customization. Word documents and PDF files are also common ATS-friendly formats.

Many applicants don't know that applicant tracking systems can't read the footers and headers of a Word document. These documents often contain contact information that is not readable by the software. That's why job seekers should avoid putting important contact information in the header or footer of their resumes. A free resume review by a professional will help you determine whether your resume is ATS-friendly. However, the free service doesn't guarantee that ATS will read your resume.

DOCX

When submitting your resume, it's important to ensure that the format is PDF or DOCX. Word files may not display properly on some devices, and DOCX resume formats are incompatible with old software. A PDF file will look exactly like the same document on your PC, even if the device you're using doesn't support it. PDF files are widely accepted by employers, and screening software that uses them can easily find keywords and criteria matches. Additionally, a PDF file does not contain viruses or malware, which means that it's safe for most ATS programs to read.

Whether ATSs will read your resume depends on the tool you're using. Most ATSs are programmed to read from left to right, and if your resume includes a photo, it may be difficult to make it appear relevant to a job. Choosing a resume format that will work with an ATS is vital if you want to be considered for the position. When submitting your resume through an ATS, you can test it first to make sure it's compatible. Using the resume screening tool will help you find keywords and skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for.