Is Your Resume ATS-Friendly?

Don’t lose your dream job just because of your resume format.

Many candidates don’t realize this — even before a recruiter looks at your resume, it goes through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

Almost every company today, big or small, uses ATS to filter applications. If your resume isn’t formatted properly, it may get rejected automatically.

Yes, that means your profile might never even reach a recruiter’s eyes.

What exactly is an ATS?

An Applicant Tracking System is a software that companies use to manage job applications.
It scans resumes for skills, keywords, and job titles, and automatically ranks them based on how well they match the job description.

If your resume has tables, graphics, columns, or fancy designs, the system may not read it properly — and your application might be skipped.

That’s why it’s important to use a clean and simple format that’s easy for both the system and the recruiter to read.

Why it matters for freshers and jobseekers

Here’s what an ATS-friendly resume can do for you:

• Makes sure your resume is actually seen by recruiters

•  Improves your chances of shortlisting

•  Highlights your skills with the right keywords

•  Works well with platforms like Workday, Taleo, iCIMS, Greenhouse

•  Perfect for campus and off-campus applications
  
  Whether you’re applying for your first job, an internship, or planning a career switch, starting with an ATS-friendly resume makes a big difference.
  
  
  

• What does an ATS-friendly resume look like?

It’s a simple, keyword-based document that can be easily scanned by systems.
Here’s what it should have (and avoid):

• No tables, columns, or images

• Use simple fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Helvetica

• Clear headings – Education, Skills, Experience

• Short bullet points

• Job-relevant keywords

• Save as a .docx file
  
  
  

• Why it’s so important now

Companies like Infosys, TCS, Accenture, Deloitte, Wipro, Cognizant, and IBM use ATS systems to handle thousands of resumes daily.
Even smaller startups and HR firms rely on tools like:
• Workday
• Zoho Recruit
• BambooHR
• Greenhouse
• Lever
• Taleo

So, if your resume isn’t formatted properly, it may not even reach the recruiter.

Quick ATS Self-Check

Before you upload your resume anywhere, ask yourself:

1. I easily copy-paste my resume text?

2. Am I using a standard font (Arial/Calibri)?

3. Are there no columns, tables, or images?

4. Are my section titles clear (Education, not “Academic Journey”)?

5. Have I used 5–10 relevant keywords from the job post?

6. Is my file saved as a .docx (not scanned PDF)?

7. Have I checked it on Jobscan.co or Resumeworded.com?

If you said “yes” to all, your resume is good to go.

Free Resume Templates You Can Use

Here are 5 free, ready-to-use resume templates that are completely ATS-compatible:

1. Freshers Resume Template
   Perfect for new graduates who want to highlight academics, internships, and projects.
   Download: Click on the Link mentioned Below [ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1x3v8AI73Bo9OC2zCImfGgGMMXQHN1hE-WX6YPFvKUco/edit?usp=sharing ]
   Best for: Engineering, Management, or Non-Tech Freshers

2. Experienced Resume Template (2–5 Years)
   For professionals who want to show achievements and core skills.
   Download: Click on the Link mentioned Below  [ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xKnKJTJ9i0H9i103yy90NtYHNAFeZ7Fy0TIBAvdC0ik/edit?usp=sharing ]
   Best for: Developers, Sales, Marketing professionals

3. Executive / Managerial Resume Template
   For mid to senior professionals looking for leadership roles.
   Download: Click on the Link mentioned Below [ https://docs.google.com/document/d/15Hh_83QE2Y4XCszULcg0Pstxty0OP0kIoPwk1p7uBww/edit?usp=sharing ]
   Best for: Project Managers, Team Leads, Consultants

4. Student / Internship Resume Template
   For students applying for internships or training roles.
   Download: Click on the Link mentioned Below  [ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CziNq9mmBuCXXjY9gbTmerH8rOcB3oXDZgmJG6OxSVk/edit?usp=sharing ]
   Best for: BCA, BSc, or B.Tech Students

5. Data Science & IT Resume Template
   For IT and data professionals — includes technical keywords.
   Download: Click on the Link mentioned Below  [ https://docs.google.com/document/d/1R2Csa3MzQHNXsdPLR0AHmFcm7tNe8-qyvX1ZVTvnRvY/edit?usp=sharing ]
   Best for: Python Developers, Data Analysts, Machine Learning Engineers

Simple Resume Tips That Work

• Keep the design plain and readable

• Avoid graphics, icons, or tables

• Pick fonts like Calibri or Arial

• Match your skills and keywords with the job posting

• Always use section headings like Education, Skills, Experience

 Final Thoughts

If you’ve been applying to multiple jobs but aren’t getting interview calls, your resume format might be the real issue — not your skills.

Don’t let a non-ATS-friendly resume block your chances.
Update your resume today and give yourself the best shot at getting shortlisted.

If you’re a fresher looking for career guidance, feel free to call or WhatsApp at +91 703010105.