English
My account

You control your data

We use cookies to tailor the experience of creating resumes and cover letters. For these reasons, we may share your usage data with third parties. You can find more information about how we use cookies on our Cookies Policy. If you would like to set your cookies preferences, click the Settings button below. To accept all cookies, click Accept.

Settings Accept

Cookie settings

Click on the types of cookies below to learn more about them and customize your experience on our Site. You may freely give, refuse or withdraw your consent. Keep in mind that disabling cookies may affect your experience on the Site. For more information, please visit our Cookies Policy and Privacy Policy.

Choose type of cookies to accept

Analytics

These cookies allow us to analyze our performance to offer you a better experience of creating resumes and cover letters. Analytics related cookies used on our Site are not used by Us for the purpose of identifying who you are or to send you targeted advertising. For example, we may use cookies/tracking technologies for analytics related purposes to determine the number of visitors to our Site, identify how visitors move around the Site and, in particular, which pages they visit. This allows us to improve our Site and our services.

Performance and Personalisation

These cookies give you access to a customized experience of our products. Personalization cookies are also used to deliver content, including ads, relevant to your interests on our Site and third-party sites based on how you interact with our advertisements or content as well as track the content you access (including video viewing). We may also collect password information from you when you log in, as well as computer and/or connection information. During some visits, we may use software tools to measure and collect session information, including page response times, download errors, time spent on certain pages and page interaction information.

Advertising

These cookies are placed by third-party companies to deliver targeted content based on relevant topics that are of interest to you. And allow you to better interact with social media platforms such as Facebook.

Necessary

These cookies are essential for the Site’s performance and for you to be able to use its features. For example, essential cookies include: cookies dropped to provide the service, maintain your account, provide builder access, payment pages, create IDs for your documents and store your consents.

To see a detailed list of cookies, click here.

Save preferences

How to Write an ATS Resume (20+ ATS-Friendly Templates)

See what an ATS resume is and how to write one. Use our curated list of ATS resume templates that will help you get past the scanning bots and land you a dream job.

Roma Kończak
Roma Kończak
Career Expert
How to Write an ATS Resume (20+ ATS-Friendly Templates)

Do you know what resumes and robots have in common? They’re likely to meet during recruitment. No, I’m not talking about a stray Roomba running over your discarded job application. I mean ATS scanners—the screening software that pre-selects job candidates.

 

If you want your application to end up in front of the recruiter’s eyes, you must know how to outsmart the robots. So, learn how to write an ATS resume and beat the system!

 

In this article, you’ll see:

  • What the Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) is.
  • How to make an ATS-friendly resume using simple tricks.
  • List of the best ATS resume templates you can use and download.

 

Save hours of work and get a job-winning resume like this. Try our resume builder with 20+ resume templates and create your resume now.

 

Create your resume now

 

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOWATS-friendly resume template

What users say about ResumeLab:

I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your resume.”
Patrick

I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work!
Dylan 

My previous resume was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful!
George

Create your resume now

 

Want to check resume templates for various applications? Feel free to check the guides below, too:

 

 

What Is an ATS-Friendly Resume?

 

An ATS-friendly resume is designed to pass the applicant tracking systems. You can ensure your resume is ATS-compliant by using standard sections, industry keywords, and simple formatting.

 

Having an ATS-friendly resume is important. If your resume doesn't pass the ATS test, it'll never reach a human recruiter. And that means you’ll be waiting for a job interview invite forever.

 

How Does the ATS Work?

 

The applicant tracking system scans your resume for job-related keywords and determines if you are a good match for the position. ATS reads your resume from left to right, and top to bottom, so it prefers resumes with a well-organized structure and an easy-to-read text layer.

 

How Can You Increase Your ATS Match Rate?

 

The match rate is a score many ATS give your resume which shows how good of a "match" you are for the position. The higher your match, the faster a human recruiter will look at your application. If your ATS resume match score is too low, you might never even hear from them.

 

So, how should you optimize your ATS resume to raise the match score? Tailor your resume for each job application. Review the job description and identify essential keywords. Incorporate these keywords naturally into your resume, especially in the skills and experience sections. When listing your work history section provide the job title, company, location, dates of employment, and a detailed description of your professional achievements for each entry. Use bullet points for clarity. Begin each resume bullet point with a strong action verb.

 

Sounds tough? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Below, you'll find ATS-optimized and ATS-friendly resume templates that will help you pass the test.

Expert Hint: 90% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS software. This is representative of a more general trend among more and more companies automating and streamlining their recruitment processes. 

How to Write an ATS-Compatible Resume

 

Now that you know how ATSs work and what ATS-friendly resumes are, let’s take a look at how you can write a job-winning ATS resume.

 

1. Use an ATS Resume Template

 

You should keep several things in mind when choosing an ATS-friendly resume template.

 

First, see if it’s readable to a machine. How? Copy and paste the content of the resume into a simple text file in Notepad. If the text is readable and more or less follows its original structure, the template should be ATS-friendly. If you can’t select or copy the text at all, no ATS will be able to parse it either—that’s why your safest bet is to send your resume as a Word or PDF file.

 

To make your resume more ATS-compliant, you should also remove any images and tables. They might confuse the applicant tracking system that your desired workplace uses. 

Expert Hint: The so-called infographic resumes are certainly good-looking. But unfortunately, most of them will fail any ATS check—that’s because they are often sent as image files.

2. Make Your ATS Resume Tailored to the Job Offer

 

Remember that ATSs will be comparing the content of your resume to the original job posting. To qualify as a match, an ATS-compliant resume must contain the right number of words and phrases from the offer. That’s why you must make a targeted resume. Use relevant resume keywords that closely match the requirements of the job application.

 

3. Follow an ATS-Friendly Resume Format

 

The chronological resume format has the most ATS-friendly structure. It’s clearly divided into resume sections and presents the candidate’s career achievements starting with the most recent ones. Other resume formats, such as functional resume or combination resume, might get rejected by ATS scans.

 

ATS scans can’t read fancy documents with creative fonts. To make sure your resume is ATS-friendly, go with classic resume fonts, and aim for a simple resume layout. Don't forget to leave ample white space by setting your resume margins to 1 inch on all sides.

 

4. Put Your Name and Contact Info at the Top

 

Your resume header is the one and only place where your name and contact information belong. Don’t put any unnecessary information there. Since ATS scans read from top to bottom and left to right, you want them to notice your name and contact details straight away.

Expert Hint: If the job ad says you should add your home address, do it to stay on the safe side—the ATS may require such info. If you’re not sure how detailed your address has to be, take a look at our dedicated guide on how to put your address on a resume.

5. Include Relevant Information

 

When drafting your resume job descriptions, see to it that your most recent job comes up top, and it’s followed by the ones you held previously. Remember to include your job titles, as they’re one type of information that ATS bots look for. Carefully read the job advertisement to ensure your resume sections include all the relevant information a hiring manager may expect.

 

6. Highlight the Skills That Match the Job Ad

 

Make sure the skills you put on a resume align with what’s outlined in the job offer. Sprinkle them throughout the entire document, rather than just put them on a list. During the ATS resume scanning, the system will extract the skills from your resume to see how much they fit the job description. Hard skills usually take priority over soft skills, so make your resume more ATS-friendly by including more of the former.

 

7. Run a Free ATS Resume Scan

 

The Internet is full of free goodies. And if you’re determined enough, you can find almost anything. If you want to ensure that your resume is 100% ATS compliant, you can use an ATS resume checker for free online. 

 

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now.

 

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

 

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOWcreate your resume now

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, and highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You're the perfect candidate, and we'll prove it. Use our resume builder now.

 

ATS-Friendly Resume Templates

 

Have a look at a selection of our ATS resume templates. Each of them has been designed by a team of professional resume writers, HR experts, and graphic designers. They’ve been specifically created to be both ATS-compliant and recruiter-friendly.

 

Cascade

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Cascade

 

This ATS-friendly resume template has a two-column resume layout and bar graphs that represent your level of proficiency.

 

Classic

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Classic

 

The name says it all: this classic template features a one-column layout and no frills. The subtle use of color helps to highlight sections in this ATS resume template.

 

Concept

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Concept

 

In this ATS-friendly resume, we have a sidebar that’s been specifically designed to make all the dates stand out. 

 

Crisp

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Crisp

 

This ATS-friendly resume incorporates resume icons that help the reader quickly locate each section.

 

Cubic

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Cubic

 

This ATS-friendly resume template gives you a lot of space for the experience section. It also includes a visual scale for grading your skills.

 

Diamond

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Diamond

 

Diamond is an ATS-friendly resume that has an infographic-like timeline, which gives the document a nice flow and directs the reader’s eye from top to bottom.

 

Enfold

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Enfold

 

Need to fit a lot of information on your resume? This ATS-compliant resume template is a great choice for you. The two-column layout helps to accommodate info on one page. You can change the background color of the right-side column to fit your preferences.

 

Iconic

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Iconic

 

Professional doesn’t mean boring, and this ATS-friendly resume template proves it. The subtle addition of resume icons helps to navigate the document.

 

Influx

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Influx

 

This ATS resume has a prominent header for your contact details, social media handles, or address.

 

Initials

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Initials

 

Initials is an ATS-compliant resume that gives you a lot of room for your professional accomplishments. It also has a graphical element with your initials.

 

Minimo

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Minimo

 

Want a minimalist resume that still looks contemporary? Then this is the perfect ATS template for you. Just change the colors of the headings the way you want, enter your information, and voilà.

 

Modern

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Modern

 

This ATS resume template makes great use of subtle graphical elements next to each section heading and large accent bars at the top and bottom of each column. Also, you get a visual scale for the skills section.

 

Muse

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Muse

 

This ATS-optimized resume template uses subtle lines to separate resume sections from each other. The ribbons next to each section’s title make it super easy to navigate through.

 

Nanica

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Nanica

 

Nanica, an ATS-friendly resume template, represents simplicity at its best. It’s an entirely distraction-free ATS resume format.

 

Newcast

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Newcast

 

This simple ATS resume follows a single-column layout. Each section heading includes a resume icon for easy navigation.

 

Primo

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Primo

 

This is an ATS-optimized resume template for enthusiasts of visuals. The resume icons indicate the beginning of each section, and the minimalist timelines help to create a smooth transition between various resume parts.

 

Simple

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Simple

 

Want a basic ATS resume template? This is it. It displays the candidate’s name, profile, and essential qualifications on the top half of the document, making them easy to spot by hiring managers.

 

Squares

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Squares

 

It’s a very classy ATS resume design. The timeless one-column layout is perfect for candidates who want their qualifications to speak for themselves.

 

Valera

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Valera

 

Another proof that classic doesn’t have to be boring. However, if the font used for headers is too laid-back for your taste, you can always change it to a more traditional one.

 

Vibes

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Vibes

 

Just like our other templates, this one is great for creating an ATS-optimized resume. It seamlessly combines professional with modern thanks to the resume icons that highlight resume sections.

 

Vintage

 

USE THIS RESUME TEMPLATEATS Resume Template - Vintage

 

Making an ATS-compliant resume is much easier when the template has already been optimized. You can personalize this one by switching the colors of timelines and bullet points, rearranging the resume order, or trying out different fonts.

Expert Hint: Not all online resume builders are ATS friendly. Some free templates may include visual elements that can’t be read by ATS scans. This means that they will be rejected. Go for templates that don’t feature excessive imagery. 

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

 

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

 

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOWcreate your cover letter now

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here.

 

Key Points

 

Here’s a quick reminder on how to make an ATS resume:

 

  1. Use an ATS-friendly resume template.
  2. Tailor your resume to the job offer.
  3. Follow an ATS-compatible resume format.
  4. Write your name and contact information at the top.
  5. Include relevant information in resume descriptions.
  6. Pick the skills that match the job requirements.
  7. Try a free ATS resume scan.

 

How did you like our article on the ATS resume? Do you have any helpful tips you’d like to share? Let’s talk about it in the comments below, and, as always, thanks for reading!

 

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

 

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines, ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets. Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About ATS Resumes

 

What is an ATS-friendly resume?

 

An ATS-friendly resume's goal is to pass through applicant tracking systems. To make your resume ATS-friendly, you should use easy-to-scan resume formatting and include resume keywords from the job ad. You should also remove any images and tables, as they might confuse the applicant tracking system.

 

How to write an ATS-friendly resume?

 

To create an ATS-friendly resume, use a clean resume layout, include relevant keywords from the job ad. Stick to standard section headings like "Work Experience" and "Skills." Submit it in DOC, or PDF formats. Proofread thoroughly to avoid errors that can confuse the ATS and harm your chances.

 

How does the ATS work?

 

It's pretty straightforward. The applicant tracking system scans your resume for job-related keywords and determines if you are a good match for the position. That means you're doomed to fail if you're not using an optimized ATS resume template.

Rate my article: ats
Thank you for voting
Average: 4.64 (11 votes)
Roma Kończak
Roma Kończak
Roma is a career expert with international work experience and a background in education and humanities. She has spent considerable time assisting individuals in advancing their careers by helping them improve their communication skills in diverse cultural and professional settings. She has written over 50 articles on effective approaches to resume writing and career advice.

Was it interesting? Here are similar articles