75% of resumes are automatically rejected by ATS systems before a human sees them. Does yours survive the filter?
What is an ATS?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software that companies use to automate the recruitment process. It acts as the first filter between your resume and the recruiter.
Main ATS functions:
- 📥 Automatically receives and stores resumes
- 🔍 Scans for specific keywords
- 📊 Scores candidates based on relevance
- 🚫 Automatically filters out “unfit” resumes
- 📋 Organizes candidates for human review
Most Used ATS in 2025
🏢 Large Companies
- • Workday
- • SuccessFactors (SAP)
- • Greenhouse
- • iCIMS
🏪 Medium Companies
- • BambooHR
- • Lever
- • SmartRecruiters
- • JazzHR
Characteristics of an ATS-Compatible Resume
✅ Correct file format
Use .docx or .pdf - Avoid formats like .jpg, .png or scanned documents
✅ Clear and standard structure
- • Clearly defined headers (Experience, Education, Skills)
- • Dates in standard format (MM/YYYY or Month YYYY)
- • Contact information at the top
- • No complex tables or multiple columns
✅ Strategic keywords
Include exact terms from job descriptions, both in full and abbreviated versions:
✅ Simple fonts and format
- • Standard fonts: Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman
- • Size 10-12pt
- • No complex graphic elements
- • Black text on white background
Errors that Kill ATS Compatibility
🚫 Excessive graphic elements
Graphics, progress bars, or “creative” resumes with complex design.
🚫 Headers in images
ATS cannot read text within images.
🚫 Information in headers/footers
Important data in headers or footers is ignored.
🚫 Two-column format
ATS reads left to right, columns confuse the order.
How to Evaluate Your Resume for Free: 4 Effective Methods
🤖 1. AI Resume Analyzers
Modern resume analyzer tools use AI to simulate real ATS behavior.
📝 2. Copy and paste test
Copy all content from your resume and paste it into a simple text document:
- • Does logical order remain?
- • Are dates and names readable?
- • Do strange characters appear?
🔍 3. Free ATS checker tools
Several platforms offer free basic versions:
- • Jobscan (3 free scans)
- • Resume Worded
- • TopResume (basic analysis)
🎯 4. Keyword analysis
Compare your resume with the job description:
ATS Optimization Step by Step
📋 ATS Optimization Checklist
Important fact
Every ATS is different. A resume that works in one system might fail in another. The key is following universal best practices and using ATS optimization tools for validation.
Conclusion
ATS compatibility isn't optional in 2025, it's fundamental. A technically perfect resume but incompatible with ATS is like sending a letter without an address.
The good news is that optimizing your resume for ATS also makes it clearer and more effective for humans. It's an investment that pays dividends on both fronts.