How to Write an ATS-Friendly Resume in 2025

In today's competitive job market, your resume needs to pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) before it reaches human eyes. Here's how to optimize your resume for success.

What is an ATS?

An Applicant Tracking System is software used by employers to collect, sort, scan, and rank job applications. Over 90% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS to filter candidates.

Key Strategies for ATS Optimization

1. Use Standard Section Headers

Stick to conventional headers like:

Work Experience

Education

Skills

Summary or Professional Summary

Avoid creative alternatives like "Where I've Made an Impact" or "My Journey."

2. Include Relevant Keywords

Mirror the language in the job description. If the posting mentions "project management," use that exact phrase rather than "managing projects."

3. Use a Clean, Simple Format

Avoid tables, text boxes, and columns

Use standard fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)

Save as .docx or .pdf (check the job posting for preferences)

Use standard bullet points

4. Optimize for Readability

Use clear job titles

Include dates in a consistent format (Month Year - Month Year)

Spell out acronyms at least once

How RezCard Helps

RezCard's ATS scoring feature analyzes your resume in real-time, checking for:

Proper formatting

Keyword optimization

Structure compliance

Readability scores

Start building your ATS-optimized resume today with RezCard's free AI resume builder.