Did you know that up to 75% of qualified job seekers are dismissed by resume screening software? It’s frustrating to be overlooked simply because your resume doesn’t effectively communicate your qualifications… So let’s change that! In this blog post, we’ll review what resume screening software is, how it works, and how to update your resume to comply.
For more tips and an in-depth resume tutorial, take my online course! My clients have received interviews and job offers from Amazon, SpaceX, Oracle (and more!) using the resume templates and tips I share in the course.
What Is Resume Screening Software?
Resume screening software (also called ATS, applicant tracking system) is a tool that many companies use to parse through job applications and find qualified candidates.
The software uses artificial intelligence to scan resumes for job-specific keywords in order to find the most qualified applicants. It is used at the beginning of the recruitment process to help recruiting teams review resumes and screen candidates. Recruiters use this information to determine who should move on to the interview process.
While not every company uses automated resume screening tools, it’s becoming increasingly common (especially for large or competitive companies that receive high volumes of applications). This makes it very important for job seekers to customize their resumes so that the software understands their qualifications.
How Does Resume Screening Software Work?
Resume screening software works by sorting candidates into two categories, qualified and unqualified, based on a set of keywords determined by the hiring manager or recruiter. The system scans applicants’ resumes for these job-specific keywords. Resumes that don’t use the keywords are eliminated from the hiring process.
This resume screening process helps recruiters streamline one of the most time-consuming parts of their job, reviewing resumes. Once the system has determined the shortlist candidates, the recruiter will review the list and decide who will move on to the next step (the next stage often consists of an assessment or a phone screen).
4 Tips For Building an ATS-Friendly Resume
Qualified candidates are regularly turned away because their resumes aren’t built to pass resume screening software. To ensure your resume is effective, use my top tips below!
- Use keywords from the job posting. Review the job description for skills, certifications, or experiences that are important for the best candidates to have. If you have those skills or experiences, include them in your resume and cover letter. It doesn’t matter where in your resume you include them (the work history or skills sections are fine!).
- Include results from your work experience. Rather than listing your day-to-day responsibilities, use your resume to list your proudest accomplishments. Make sure to include metrics wherever possible. Listing the impact you made, rather than your daily tasks, is more effective at communicating the value you would bring as a new hire.
- Check for correct grammar and spelling. Resume screening systems scan for specific keywords, so if they are spelled incorrectly, the system won’t register them.
- Take Launched By Liz’s Launch Your Resume Course. I’ve created an entire online course (that is easy to understand and affordable!) to help you craft the most impactful resume. It includes even more tips for navigating the ATS and valuable insights on building your resume strategically. With my help, my clients’ resumes have landed interviews and/or job offers at SpaceX, Amazon, and Oracle!
Learn How To Build Your Resume To Beat Resume Screening Software
Learn how to build a resume that will pass screening software with my new Launch Your Resume Course! This course will teach you how to effectively share your accomplishments and navigate the ATS.
With my help, my clients landed interviews at top companies, including Amazon, and job offers at places like Oracle, SpaceX, and e-Trade! They’ve also used my resume advice to gain full scholarships to master’s programs and more.
Whether you’re applying to a new role or to graduate school… Your resume makes or breaks your first impression. Make it count.
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