If you are months into your job search and just not getting any interviews at all…. chances are you it’s your resume!
When was the last time you truly looked at it and updated it?
Did you even know that you’re supposed to be updating your resume for each and every job that you apply for?
If you didn’t, you’re not alone. Most people use the same general resume for their entire job search.
There is a better way!
What is an applicant tracking system?
An applicant tracking system is basically a computer that scans your resume to see if you would be a good fit for the job. This is done as soon as you apply and before anyone actual human sees your resume.
If the computer thinks you’re a bad fit, you automatically get rejected and are never seen by a recruiter.
Who uses applicant tracking systems?
A lot of companies are using them.
95% of Fortune 500 companies use applicant tracking systems. In addition, 75% of all companies use them during their job search.
What’s more important is that 92% of recruiters and hiring leaders say that the ATS makes a positive impact in their hiring process.
It’s only going to get more prevalent in the future. You need to make sure you are using ATS-Friendly resume templates.
How to beat an applicant tracking systems
If you want to beat an applicant tracking system, you need to think like an applicant tracking system.
Every time you look at a job description, find the keywords that stick out and put them on your resume.
If they aren’t there in the exact right way, the computer immediately assumes you don’t have that skill, even if you do.
Fortunately, there is actually a really simple tool out there that can help you with this task.
It’s called JobScan and it lets you analyze your resume compared to the job description of a job you want. It then gives you a ranking for how much it matches up!
This is wonderful because it gives you actionable ways to improve your resume and shows you exactly what keywords you need to be listing on your resume to get past the applicant tracking system.
JobScan even gives you 20 Free ATS-Friendly resume templates that you’re able to customize will all your information.
This resume hack alone will save you so much time and frustration in your job search.
I use it for each and every client that I write resumes for. It helps me know for sure that they will get past the ATS regardless of their background.
What to put on your resume besides skills for the ATS
Once you have your keywords down pat, there are a few other tips that help give you a better chance of landing an interview.
These will also help you get past an ATS as well.
You want to make sure that your job title matches up closely. Some companies use different and weird job titles for the same thing.
For example, a recruiter can be called a recruiter, talent acquisitions specialist, HR Specialist, and many more variations.
Make sure the verbiage you use matches closely with the job description.
You should also put that title right up top underneath your name!
When to enlist help with your resume
If you’ve done all this already and are still not getting any results, it may be time to consider a professional.
I know, everyone always asks if a resume writer is worth it. In this situation, yes. It is absolutely beneficial to get some professional help from a certified resume writer.
Resume writers can actually help you get results quicker. They can shorten your overall job search time which saves you money. They will also create a document that will get noticed and help you land higher salary offers.
Reach out if you have any questions about JobScan and their ATS friendly resumes templates or if you are struggling and want a professional to review your current resume for free.
What else are you struggling with?