10 Tips for ATS-Friendly Resumes in 2025

Want your resume to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and get noticed by recruiters? Here’s a quick guide to crafting an ATS-friendly resume that works in 2025:

1. Keep the Format Simple: Use clean layouts, standard fonts (Arial, Calibri), and avoid text boxes, images, or special design elements.
2. Match Keywords: Pull key terms directly from job descriptions and integrate them naturally into your resume.
3. Customize for Each Job: Tailor your resume to each role by highlighting relevant skills, achievements, and experience.
4. Save in ATS-Compatible Formats: Use .docx as your primary file format; avoid .jpg, .png, or .pages.
5. Avoid Images or Graphics: Stick to plain text to ensure ATS can read your resume correctly.
6. Use Standard Section Headers: Stick to headers like "Professional Experience", "Education", and "Skills" for easy ATS parsing.
7. Highlight Metrics: Quantify your achievements with numbers (e.g., “Increased sales by 30%”).
8. Check Spelling and Grammar: Errors can confuse ATS and hurt your chances.
9. Test with ATS Tools: Use tools like Scale.jobs to check compatibility and improve your resume’s performance.
10. Get Expert Help: Consider professional services to optimize your resume for ATS and recruiters.

Key Takeaways:

• Focus on simplicity and clarity: ATS struggles with complex formatting or visuals.
• Use keywords wisely: Context matters - don’t just list terms.
• Prioritize measurable results: Numbers make your achievements stand out.
• Test before applying: Ensure your resume is ATS-ready to avoid being filtered out.

By following these steps, you’ll improve your chances of passing ATS and landing interviews in today’s competitive job market.

The Perfect Resume to Beat the ATS in 2025

1. Keep Format Simple

When crafting your resume for ATS systems in 2025, simplicity is key. Complex formatting can confuse these systems, so stick to a clean and straightforward layout for better parsing.

Basic Layout Tips

• Use margins between 0.75″ and 1″.
• Stick to a single-column format with line spacing of 1.0–1.15.
• Align all text to the left.

Font Choices
Choose fonts that ATS systems can read easily, such as Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, or Helvetica. Keep body text between 10–12 pt and headers between 14–16 pt. Limit yourself to using just two font types throughout.

What to Avoid
Skip using text boxes, tables, multiple columns, headers or footers, graphics, decorative bullet points, or PDF digital signatures. These elements can interfere with ATS processing.

Organizing Sections
Separate sections with bold headers and make use of white space, like line breaks, to improve readability. Minimize the use of horizontal lines.

To make your resume visually appealing, use consistent bullet points, bold text strategically, and maintain a clear hierarchy for headers. Proper spacing between sections also helps with readability.

Finally, save your resume as a .docx file for digital submissions. This format ensures the layout stays intact and improves compatibility with ATS systems.

2. Match Job Description Keywords

Getting past modern ATS systems requires more than just tossing in a few keywords. By 2025, these systems focus on both the presence of keywords and how they fit into the overall context of your resume. This means every section of your resume needs to be clear and relevant.

Place Keywords Strategically
Weave important keywords naturally into your resume, especially in areas like your professional summary and work experience.

Spot the Important Keywords
Carefully review the job description to find:

• Technical skills that are repeated
• Mandatory qualifications and certifications
• Terms specific to the industry
• Action verbs describing tasks and responsibilities
• Tools and software listed as requirements

Use Exact Phrases
Stick to the exact wording from the job description. For example, write "project management" instead of "managing projects." Include both the full term and any related acronyms, like "Search Engine Optimization (SEO)."

Context Is Key
ATS systems now prioritize how keywords fit into the bigger picture. A simple list of terms won’t cut it.

Avoid Overloading Keywords
Using too many keywords can backfire. Keep them natural and readable, ensuring your resume appeals to both ATS systems and hiring managers.

Use Tools for Help
Consider professional services like scale.jobs to fine-tune your resume for specific job descriptions. A smart keyword strategy is the first step in crafting a resume that stands out - both to ATS systems and recruiters.

3. Customize Each Resume

In 2025's job market, sending out the same resume for every job won't cut it. Tailoring your resume to each position is key to standing out.

Start with a Master Resume

Build a detailed document that includes your entire work history, skills, and accomplishments. This will be your go-to resource for creating tailored resumes.

Analyze the Job Requirements

Break down each job posting into three key areas:

Use this breakdown to organize your resume so it directly reflects the job’s priorities.

Reorganize Your Experience

Put your most relevant experiences front and center. Shift sections that align with the job’s requirements to the top of your resume. This not only makes it easier for hiring managers to see your fit but also improves your score with applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Quantify Your Achievements

Replace vague descriptions with measurable outcomes to make your accomplishments stand out:

Numbers and specific results make a stronger impression than generic claims.

Save Time While Customizing

Customizing every resume can be time-consuming. Consider tools like scale.jobs to speed up the process, letting you focus on networking and prepping for interviews.

Always keep your resume accurate, honest, and well-formatted. Modern ATS systems are smart enough to assess both keywords and context, so make sure your resume flows naturally while still including role-specific terms to boost compatibility.

4. Save in ATS-Ready Formats

Choosing the right file format is just as important as crafting a well-optimized resume. The format you select can directly impact how well your resume performs in Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Recommended File Formats

Here’s how to format your resume for each type:

For .docx (Microsoft Word):

• Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
• Use simple bullet points.
• Avoid text boxes, columns, or other complex layouts.
• Save in compatibility mode to ensure it works across different systems.

For .pdf files:

• Export directly from Word to ensure the text remains selectable.
• Test the file in a text editor to confirm ATS can read it.
• Use the PDF/A format for better compatibility.

Formats to Avoid

Some formats don’t work well with ATS and should be avoided:

• .pages (Apple Pages)
• .rtf (Rich Text Format)
• .jpg or .png (Image files)
• .html (Web page format)
• .odt (OpenDocument Text)

Testing Your File

Before submitting, run your resume through tools like scale.jobs' free ATS Resume Checker to verify compatibility.

Always Have a Backup

Save a plain .txt version of your resume as a backup. It’s simple but ensures your content is readable if all else fails.

5. Skip Images and Design Elements

If you're aiming to get past ATS (Applicant Tracking System) software, keeping your resume simple is key. While visually appealing resumes might impress a recruiter, they can confuse ATS software, which primarily processes plain text. Complex design elements can hurt your chances of making it through.

What to Avoid

The goal is to focus on clear, text-based content that highlights your achievements without relying on visuals.

Simple Formatting Guidelines

Here are a few tips to keep your resume ATS-compatible:

• Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
• Maintain consistent spacing, such as single or 1.15 line spacing.
• Set margins between 0.5 to 1 inch on all sides.
• Use basic bullet points for lists.
• Include clear and straightforward section headers.

Text-Based Alternatives

Instead of relying on visual elements, craft strong, descriptive statements to showcase your accomplishments. For instance, replace a graph showing sales growth with: "Increased quarterly sales by 45% through strategic client relationship management." Use horizontal lines or white space to separate sections while keeping the design simple and ATS-friendly.

Common Parsing Errors

ATS systems often misread or skip over complex design features, leading to errors such as:

• Reading multiple columns out of order.
• Ignoring headers placed inside text boxes.
• Struggling with background colors that obscure text.
• Misinterpreting custom bullet points as random symbols.
• Jumbling text wrapped inside shapes.

To avoid these pitfalls, keep your resume clean and straightforward. If you're unsure, test your resume with an ATS tool to ensure compatibility. Simplicity ensures your resume gets through the system without issues.

6. Use Common Section Headers

To ensure your resume is compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), stick to standard section headers. These systems are designed to recognize conventional titles, so avoid using overly creative alternatives.

Section Headers

Header Formatting Tips

• Use bold, clear, and left-aligned text.
• Maintain consistent capitalization and font throughout.
• Avoid symbols or special characters in headers.

Common ATS Header Issues

Here are some common mistakes that can cause ATS parsing errors:

• Using abbreviations like "Prof. Exp." instead of "Professional Experience."
• Adding special characters (e.g., ★, ⚡, →) to headers.
• Combining multiple sections into one header (e.g., "Education+Skills").
• Writing headers in languages other than English.
• Embedding headers within text boxes or graphics.

Section Order Guidelines

Organize your resume in a sequence that ATS systems can easily process:

1. Contact Information
2. Summary/Objective
3. Professional Experience
4. Education
5. Skills
6. Additional Sections (Certifications, Awards, Publications)

For a quick check of your resume's ATS compatibility, try using Scale.jobs' free Resume ATS Checker.

7. Include Numbers and Results

Once you've refined your format and optimized keywords, the next step is adding performance metrics. Numbers and measurable results give your resume a clear edge, showcasing the tangible impact of your work. Highlighting specific achievements with data makes your experience more compelling and easier to evaluate.

How to Turn Achievements into Measurable Results

Here are some examples of how to transform vague statements into specific, results-driven accomplishments:

Metrics Worth Highlighting

Performance Metrics

• Revenue growth percentages
• Cost savings in dollars
• Time savings (e.g., hours or days)
• Team size and responsibilities
• Project success rates

Business Impact

• Budget figures you managed
• Customer satisfaction scores
• Increases in market share
• Year-over-year improvements
• Return on investment (ROI)

Practical Tips for Adding Metrics

• Replace vague phrases like "managed large budget" with specifics like "managed $1.2M annual budget."
• Use percentages and timeframes to give context (e.g., "boosted sales by 25% in six months").
• Focus on results rather than responsibilities - what did you achieve?
• Highlight before-and-after states to show the difference you made.

Common Areas to Measure

• Sales: Revenue growth, client acquisition, and conversion rates.
• Marketing: Campaign ROI, lead generation, and engagement metrics.
• Operations: Efficiency improvements, cost reductions, and process optimizations.
• Management: Team size, project scope, and budget oversight.
• Customer Service: Satisfaction scores, response times, and resolution rates.

Consistency is key when presenting metrics. Use numerals for figures above ten and for specific measurements or percentages. Spell out numbers one through nine when they aren't tied to measurements.

Incorporating clear metrics into your resume not only highlights your accomplishments but also sets the stage for further improvements.

8. Check Spelling and Grammar

Mistakes in spelling and grammar can affect how ATS software reads your resume and might even cost you an interview. Even small errors can lead to misinterpretation of your qualifications or missed keywords. Here’s how to make sure your resume is error-free and ATS-friendly.

Common Resume Error Categories

Steps for Thorough Proofreading

Follow these steps to eliminate errors and improve ATS compatibility:

• Automated Review
  Use a grammar tool and spell checker, especially those with technical dictionaries. Double-check all suggested changes to ensure accuracy.
• Manual Review
  Read your resume backward to spot errors, print it out for a fresh perspective, and check for consistency in dates, numbers, and formatting.
• Technical Verification
  Confirm the accuracy of industry-specific terms, product names, and acronyms. Ensure consistent capitalization for programming languages, software, and tools.

Key Areas to Double-Check

Technical Skills

• Verify software version numbers, programming languages, certifications, and tool names.

Job Titles

• Use standard industry titles, maintain consistent capitalization, and ensure company names and role-specific keywords are accurate.

Tips for a Polished Resume

• Focus on one type of error at a time during proofreading.
• Ask a colleague or industry expert to review technical terms.
• Develop a personal style guide to maintain consistency throughout your resume.

9. Test with ATS Tools

Running your resume through ATS (Applicant Tracking System) simulation tools can show how these systems analyze your document. These tools help you check for keyword usage, formatting issues, and proper section recognition.

Once you've fine-tuned your resume with keywords and formatting, testing it with ATS tools ensures it aligns with current hiring standards.

Key Metrics to Watch

• Keyword Usage: Does your resume include terms from the job description?
• Formatting: Is the layout easy for ATS to process?
• Section Labels: Are headers like "Experience" and "Education" detected correctly?
• Job Titles: Are your role descriptions clear and relevant?

Keep these factors in mind when running your resume through an ATS tool.

Making the Most of ATS Testing Tools

Platforms like Scale.jobs provide a free Resume ATS Checker that evaluates your resume's ATS compatibility and offers helpful feedback.

To get the best results:

• Test your resume against several job descriptions to cover a range of keywords.
• Double-check that all major sections are clearly labeled.
• Ensure the tool parses every part of your resume correctly.

Common Problems Found in ATS Tests

• Fonts or layouts that ATS can't read, causing text to default to plain system fonts.
• Parsing issues caused by tables, columns, or improperly placed headers.
• Special characters creating errors during the conversion process.

Tips for an ATS-Friendly Resume

• Replace images or graphics with plain text.
• Save your resume in formats like .docx or .pdf that ATS tools can easily process.
• Remove hidden text and avoid overly complex formatting.

Testing your resume with ATS tools is a smart way to catch any issues before applying. Use tools like Scale.jobs' Resume ATS Checker to make sure your resume is ready to pass through ATS systems without a hitch.

10. Get Expert Help

If you're serious about crafting a resume that impresses both hiring software and recruiters, expert guidance can make a big difference. With hiring technology constantly changing, creating an ATS-friendly resume has become more complex.

Why Professional Resume Services Are Worth It

Getting professional help can save you time and improve your resume's performance. Services like Scale.jobs (https://scale.jobs) specialize in optimizing resumes for ATS systems, offering perks like:

• Tailored resumes that align with specific job descriptions
• ATS-compliant formatting and keyword adjustments
• Expert reviews and actionable feedback

What Expert Assistance Can Do for You

According to Scale.jobs, 93% of their users landed full-time jobs within three months, with 47% of those jobs coming directly from their optimized applications. Here's what one user had to say:

"I would recommend trying out scale.jobs to anyone looking to make more time in their schedule for interview prep and networking, so that the repetitive portion of job application process can be outsourced. I personally feel it's good value for money." – Anuva Agarwal

Choosing the Right Service

When picking a professional resume service, keep these factors in mind:

• Expertise: Make sure the provider understands the latest ATS trends.
• Customization: Opt for services that tailor resumes to specific roles.
• Proven Results: Look at success rates and customer reviews.
• Pricing: Weigh the cost against the time you'll save.

Getting the Most Out of Professional Help

To maximize the benefits of a professional service, take these steps:

1. Be Clear About Your Goals: Share your career objectives and target roles upfront.
2. Stay Engaged: Review the changes they make and provide feedback.
3. Use Extra Tools: Combine their service with ATS testing tools for added confidence.
4. Track Your Success: Keep an eye on your application results and fine-tune your approach as needed.

Conclusion

Crafting a resume that works well with ATS systems while appealing to hiring managers is essential in 2025 - especially when fewer than 2% of applications lead to interviews.

By focusing on proper formatting and using the right keywords, you can improve your chances. Leela Yanamaddi, Co-Founder of Scale.jobs, puts it bluntly: "We're told that the key to landing a job is networking and applying to hundreds of positions. But let's be honest: repetitive applications sap motivation. With a 98% non-response rate, it's a wonder any of us can stay motivated."

The essentials? Clean formatting that ATS systems can read, thoughtful keyword use, reliable tools or services, and active networking.

With 98% of applications going unanswered, turning to services like Scale.jobs can make a real difference. They can reduce your job search time from 5 months to as little as 1–3 months, giving you a better shot at success.

Expert tools not only streamline the process but also deliver tangible results. Job seeker Shobhit Datta highlights this:

"Scale.jobs has been an excellent help in applying for high volume of jobs which otherwise would be very time consuming... This is extremely useful in the current job market as a high‐volume approach helped me get few interview calls which I wasn't getting earlier."