Getting noticed by employers can be tough. Many companies use software to screen resumes before a human ever sees them.
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) scans and sorts resumes to help recruiters quickly find qualified candidates.
Understanding how to create an ATS-friendly resume can increase your chances of getting interviews and landing a job.
This article covers 20 ATS resume examples and an easy-to-follow guide for 2025. It helps job seekers improve their resumes and pass through modern hiring systems with confidence.
1) Use a clean, simple format for ATS compatibility
A clean and simple resume format is essential for getting past Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Avoid tables, graphics, images, or fancy fonts.
Use standard sections, consistent spacing, clear headings, and common fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. This structure ensures your resume content is read correctly by the software.
Learn more about optimizing resume formats for ATS. RoboApply makes it easy to format and optimize your resume for every application.
Below is a full-length example of an ATS-friendly resume that you can copy and use. This template includes all key details and keeps formatting simple and clear.
John Smith
123 Main Street
Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: john.smith@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith
Professional Summary
Results-driven marketing specialist with 5+ years of experience delivering digital campaigns, managing content strategy, and improving brand awareness. Skilled in SEO, analytics, and communications.
Work Experience
Marketing Specialist
ABC Company, Chicago, IL
June 2021 – Present
- Developed and executed digital marketing strategies, increasing website visits by 30%.
- Managed company social media profiles and grew followers by 20%.
- Analyzed campaign data and prepared monthly performance reports.
Marketing Assistant
XYZ Agency, Springfield, IL
July 2018 – May 2021
- Supported senior marketing team with research, reporting, and project coordination.
- Coordinated email marketing campaigns reaching 10,000+ subscribers.
- Wrote copy for newsletters and blog posts.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL
Graduated May 2018
Skills
- Digital Marketing
- SEO
- Content Management
- Google Analytics
- Microsoft Office Suite
Certifications
Google Ads Certified (2022)
HubSpot Content Marketing (2021)
2) Include standard section headings like Education, Experience, Skills
To pass through applicant tracking systems and make resumes easy for recruiters to read, it’s important to use clear, standard section headings such as “Education,” “Experience,” and “Skills.” These headings help the ATS organize and parse information accurately.
Always prioritize clarity over creativity when labeling each section. Using these common headings is one of the top recommendations from resume experts when building an ATS-friendly resume.
Below is a full resume example using standard section headings that you can copy and use for your own job search.
JANE DOE
New York, NY 10001
(555) 123-4567
janedoe@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janedoe
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented administrative assistant with three years of experience in office management. Skilled at scheduling, document preparation, and customer service.
Strong communication and organization abilities. Seeking to join an established company as an Office Administrator.
Experience
Administrative Assistant
Bright Solutions, New York, NY
June 2022 – Present
- Managed calendars and scheduled meetings for executives
- Prepared reports and handled confidential documents
- Coordinated travel and processed expense reports
- Assisted with onboarding of new staff
Office Clerk
City Legal Group, New York, NY
July 2021 – May 2022
- Supported daily front-desk operations
- Answered phones and directed calls
- Ordered supplies and tracked inventory
Education
Associate of Arts in Business Administration
New York City College, New York, NY
Graduated: May 2021
Skills
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Scheduling and calendar management
- Customer service
- Data entry
- Problem-solving
Certifications
Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), 2023
References
Available upon request
3) Avoid headers, tables, and graphics
When creating an ATS-friendly resume, it’s important to avoid headers, tables, text boxes, images, and graphics. Most Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have trouble reading complex layouts or visual elements, which can cause your information to be missed or misread.
Use simple formatting with standard section titles and plain text. Avoid columns or any non-standard resume features so that each section of your resume is read correctly by automated systems.
For best results, use a basic structure with clear sections (“Experience,” “Education,” etc.) and stick to bullet points for lists.
Below is a full-length, realistic ATS-friendly resume template without headers, tables, or graphics. This template uses plain text, standard section titles, and simple formatting, making it easy for any ATS to read.
John Doe
Los Angeles, CA 90001
johndoe@email.com
(555) 123-4567
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe
Objective
Detail-oriented administrative assistant with 3 years of experience in fast-paced office environments. Skilled in managing schedules, supporting executives, and improving workflow.
Seeking to bring strong organizational skills and attention to detail to the administrative assistant role at Bloomfield Co.
Professional Experience
Administrative Assistant
Greenlight Insurance, Los Angeles, CA
March 2022 – Present
- Schedule and coordinate meetings for a team of 15 staff, reducing scheduling conflicts by 30%.
- Prepare and edit over 20 internal documents weekly, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Maintain vendor and client contact lists to support team communication.
- Answer office phones, direct calls, and respond to customer inquiries.
Office Clerk
City Office Supply, Los Angeles, CA
June 2021 – February 2022
- Processed customer orders and entered data into system, handling up to 50 transactions per day.
- Stocked and organized supplies, decreasing misplaced items by 25%.
- Assisted with filing, scanning, and record keeping.
Education
Associate of Arts in Business Administration
Los Angeles City College, Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: May 2021
Skills
- Calendar management
- Document preparation
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Customer service
- Data entry
Certifications
Certified Administrative Professional, 2022
Awards
Employee of the Month, Greenlight Insurance, September 2023
References
Available upon request
4) Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description
To be noticed by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), it is important to include keywords directly from the job description. These keywords often include required skills, qualifications, job titles, and software that employers mention in their postings.
Adding these keywords increases the likelihood that a resume will be flagged as a good match by automated systems. Candidates can find the best keywords by reading the job posting carefully, noting repeated words or phrases, and integrating those terms throughout their resume.
Using the exact language used in the job description is key to passing ATS filters and making a resume stand out.
Example Resume Using Keywords from a Software Engineer Job Posting
Full Name: Avery Johnson
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: avery.johnson@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/averyjohnson
Professional Summary
Results-oriented Software Engineer with 5+ years of experience in full stack development, agile methodologies, and cloud computing. Skilled at working with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality software solutions.
Passionate about writing efficient code in Java, Python, and JavaScript.
Skills
- Full Stack Development
- Agile Methodologies
- Cloud Computing (AWS)
- Java, Python, JavaScript
- RESTful API Design
- Microservices Architecture
- Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)
- Git, Docker, Jenkins
Work Experience
Software Engineer
Tech Innovations, San Francisco, CA
March 2021 – Present
- Developed and maintained full stack applications using Java, Python, and JavaScript, meeting client requirements and deadlines.
- Implemented RESTful APIs and integrated third-party services into cloud-based solutions on AWS.
- Collaborated with a cross-functional team using agile methodologies, participating in daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives.
- Automated testing and deployment using CI/CD pipelines with Jenkins and Docker, reducing deployment times by 30%.
Software Developer
BlueStar Solutions, San Francisco, CA
June 2018 – February 2021
- Built scalable microservices architectures in Python and Java, improving application reliability and scalability.
- Designed and deployed containerized applications on AWS, increasing uptime to 99.9%.
- Utilized Git for source control and collaborated in code reviews to ensure code quality.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
University of California, Berkeley
Graduated: May 2018
Certifications
AWS Certified Developer – Associate
Scrum Master Certification
5) Label resume sections clearly and consistently
Clear and consistent labels help both hiring managers and applicant tracking systems (ATS) find and read your key information fast. When every section on a resume is named with familiar and standard titles—like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills”—ATS software is more likely to scan it successfully.
Avoid unusual or creative headings, as these may confuse the software and make a resume less effective. Use the same style, font, and formatting for each section heading to maintain a neat, readable structure throughout your document.
For more guidance on ATS resume best practices, see these ATS resume tips.
Below is a copy-and-paste ready example of a resume with clearly and consistently labeled sections. This template uses simple section names and clean formatting to ensure easy reading by both software and people.
Jane Smith
123 Main Street
Portland, OR 97201
(555) 123-4567
jane.smith@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janesmith
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented administrative assistant with over 4 years of experience managing office operations, scheduling, and customer communication. Seeking to leverage excellent organizational and communication skills in a fast-paced business environment. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
Work Experience
Administrative Assistant
ABC Corporation, Portland, OR
March 2022 – Present
- Managed scheduling for a 30-person team, improving efficiency by 15%.
- Served as primary point of contact for office visitors and phone inquiries.
- Coordinated internal and external meetings, drafted agendas, and maintained records.
Receptionist
QuickStart Services, Beaverton, OR
January 2020 – February 2022
- Greeted visitors and handled check-ins for over 60 clients per day.
- Assisted with data entry, filing, and general administration duties.
Education
Associate of Science in Business Administration
Portland Community College, Portland, OR
Graduated: December 2019
Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Google Workspace
- Calendar Management
- Customer Service
- Data Entry
Certifications
Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)
International Association of Administrative Professionals
Issued March 2023
References
Available upon request
6) Choose ATS-friendly fonts like Arial or Calibri
Using the right font on a resume is critical for beating applicant tracking systems. ATS software often struggles with unusual fonts or complicated formatting.
Sticking to widely accepted fonts such as Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Cambria, or Times New Roman helps ensure resumes display correctly for both robots and humans. These fonts are clear, readable, and improve the odds that your resume will make it past the first software filter.
To learn more, review this guide on the best fonts for your resume in 2025.
Below is a full-length resume template using Calibri (11 pt)—a popular, ATS-friendly font. This template is ready to copy and use.
All sections are included, and the formatting is simple with standard headings and no graphics. It is structured for maximum compatibility with ATS software:
Jane Thompson
janethompson@email.com
(555) 555-0123
New York, NY 10001
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janethompson
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented Administrative Assistant with over five years of experience supporting busy office teams. Skilled in scheduling, document management, and customer communication. Recognized for improving office efficiency and providing excellent internal support.
Work Experience
Administrative Assistant
BrightStone Financial, New York, NY
July 2021 – Present
- Organize and maintain digital and paper filing systems for 30+ staff members.
- Schedule meetings, prepare agendas, and take minutes.
- Answer average of 60+ phone and email inquiries from clients per week.
- Process invoices and expense reports for the accounting team.
Office Clerk
Westside Logistics, Brooklyn, NY
June 2019 – June 2021
- Greeted visitors and managed daily office operations.
- Entered data and reviewed shipment documents for accuracy.
- Ordered supplies and coordinated service appointments with vendors.
Education
Associate Degree in Business Administration
CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College, New York, NY
Graduated May 2019
Skills
Microsoft Office Suite
Calendar Management
Document Organization
Customer Service
Data Entry
Certifications
Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), IAAP
References
Available upon requestChoosing ATS-friendly fonts like Arial or Calibri makes resumes accessible and helps applicants avoid rejection due to formatting issues. Use this structure to stay compliant across job boards, and consider using tools to optimize your resume for each new job application.
7) Use bullet points for easy parsing
Bullet points make resumes much easier for both ATS and human recruiters to scan quickly. Short, clear statements in a bulleted list help highlight key skills, duties, and achievements.
Using bullet points instead of paragraphs reduces clutter and ensures that important information is not missed. Recruiters and hiring managers often prefer bullet points because they can identify relevant experience fast.
Here is a full-length, copy-and-paste-ready resume example that uses strong bullet points throughout:
Alex Martinez
123 Willow Lane
Dallas, TX 75201
alex.martinez@email.com
(214) 555-7890
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alexmartinez
Professional Summary
Resourceful Digital Marketing Specialist with 5+ years of experience creating and executing marketing campaigns for B2B and B2C companies. Skilled at content development, social media strategy, and SEO optimization to drive growth and engagement.
Skills
- Digital marketing strategy
- Social media management
- Content creation
- Data analysis
- Google Analytics, SEMrush, HubSpot
- Email marketing automation (Mailchimp, Constant Contact)
- SEO & SEM campaigns
Professional Experience
Digital Marketing Specialist
Bright Media Solutions, Dallas, TX
June 2020 – Present
- Designed and launched 20+ data-driven digital campaigns, increasing client web traffic by 45% on average
- Managed company social media profiles, resulting in a 60% growth in followers in one year
- Produced weekly SEO-optimized blogs, improving search rankings for targeted keywords
- Tracked and analyzed campaign results via Google Analytics and adjusted strategy for better ROI
- Collaborated with designers, copywriters, and developers to launch new microsites
Marketing Coordinator
Skyline Technologies, Dallas, TX
August 2017 – May 2020
- Supported the rollout of product launches, coordinating between marketing, sales, and product teams
- Organized and promoted 15+ webinars, increasing attendee rates by 33%
- Wrote and edited marketing collateral, including brochures, presentations, and newsletters
- Monitored email campaigns for deliverability and open rates, achieving industry-best results
- Used HubSpot to manage lead generation and pipeline activity
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, 2017
Certifications
Google Analytics Certified
HubSpot Inbound Certified
Additional Activities
- Volunteer Marketing Advisor, Local Nonprofit Group
- Member, Dallas Marketing Professionals
8) Avoid using text boxes or images
To make sure a resume passes through applicant tracking systems (ATS), job seekers should not use text boxes, images, or graphics anywhere in their resume. These features confuse ATS software, which may skip text in these areas, causing key information to be missed by employers.
Keeping the layout simple with easy-to-read fonts and standard sections ensures that every detail is recognized and properly scored. For job seekers interested in reliable formatting, using a tool like RoboApply can help them build an ATS-compliant resume quickly and effectively.
Below is a complete, ATS-friendly resume example. It contains no text boxes or images, uses clear section headings, and keeps all content left-aligned.
All information is written in regular, readable text. This layout maximizes the chances of a resume being read correctly by ATS software:
John Smith
123 Main Street
Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: (312) 555-1234
Email: johnsmith@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented customer service representative with 4+ years of experience in fast-paced retail environments. Proven ability to handle difficult customer situations and resolve issues quickly. Skilled in communication, sales, and inventory management. Seeking to leverage strong interpersonal skills at ABC Company.
Work Experience
Customer Service Representative
Retail Solutions, Chicago, IL
April 2021 – Present
- Managed customer inquiries and complaints by phone and in person, resolving 90% of issues on first contact
- Processed orders, exchanges, and returns using company POS system
- Trained 7 new team members in company procedures and customer service best practices
Sales Associate
MegaMart, Chicago, IL
June 2019 – March 2021
- Helped customers find products, leading to a 10% increase in department sales
- Maintained inventory and restocked shelves daily
Education
Associate of Arts in Business
City College of Chicago
Graduated May 2019
Skills
- Customer Service
- Problem-Solving
- Point-of-Sale Systems
- Communication
- Inventory Management
Certifications
Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP)
Issued June 2020
References available upon request
9) Save and submit your resume as a .docx or .pdf file if supported
Many applicant tracking systems (ATS) work best with .docx or .pdf file formats. Saving your resume as a .docx file ensures the text is easily parsed by most ATS software.
A .pdf file keeps your formatting intact across different devices. Before submitting, check which formats are accepted by the employer or job platform.
Popular career sites explain that either format is generally safe. Confirm the instructions in each job posting to avoid issues with readability or formatting.
For those needing resume building and scoring, tools like optimize your resume with RoboApply offer an efficient way to ensure your file is ready for both ATS and recruiters.
Below is a full-length resume template, ready to copy and paste. Save it as a .docx or .pdf file as the job requires.
James Bennett
123 Maple Drive
Austin, TX 78704
(555) 321-9876
james.bennett@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jamesbennett
Professional Summary
Results-driven marketing manager with 7+ years of experience leading digital campaigns and cross-functional teams. Skilled in SEO, PPC, and analytics. Proven ability to increase engagement, grow online presence, and drive revenue in fast-paced environments.
Work Experience
Senior Marketing Manager
TruTech Solutions, Austin, TX
June 2021 – Present
- Led a team of 6 to develop and launch three digital marketing campaigns, increasing new customer sign-ups by 32%.
- Managed $100k+ annual marketing budget and optimized spending by 18% through data-driven analysis.
- Improved company SEO ranking from page 3 to page 1 for 10+ key terms.
Digital Marketing Specialist
Sunrise Learning Co., Austin, TX
May 2017 – May 2021
- Developed and executed PPC advertising strategies resulting in 24% lower cost-per-lead.
- Coordinated content marketing plans that grew website traffic by 40% in two years.
- Analyzed campaign performance metrics and presented quarterly reports to leadership.
Education
B.A. in Marketing, University of Texas at Austin, 2017
Skills
- SEO & SEM
- Google Analytics
- Email Marketing
- Social Media Management
- Adobe Creative Suite
Certifications
Google Ads Certified, HubSpot Content Marketing Certified
References available upon request.When finished, save this file as “James_Bennett_Resume.docx” or “James_Bennett_Resume.pdf” depending on what is requested by the job posting. This ensures compatibility with most ATS systems and presents your qualifications clearly to employers.
10) Highlight measurable achievements in your experience
Employers want to see clear evidence of your contributions in previous roles. Instead of using vague statements, focus on results that can be measured with numbers, percentages, or specific examples.
This approach helps applicant tracking systems (ATS) recognize your impact and lets hiring managers quickly assess your skills. Detailing measurable achievements on a resume shows real value.
You can find additional advice and inspiration from this ATS resume guide for 2025 and learn more about quantifiable results in Jobscan’s guide to ATS-friendly resumes.
Resume Example Highlighting Measurable Achievements:
Jessica Williams
Los Angeles, CA | (555) 555-3321 | jessicawilliams@email.com | linkedin.com/in/jessicawilliams
SUMMARY
Resourceful Marketing Coordinator with 4+ years of experience leading campaign strategy, content development, and digital marketing projects. Adept at increasing engagement, analyzing trends, and driving revenue growth through data-driven efforts.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
ABC Tech Solutions | Los Angeles, CA
Marketing Coordinator | January 2021 – May 2025
- Increased website traffic by 50% within one year by launching and executing a targeted SEO campaign.
- Managed email marketing campaigns that improved open rates from 18% to 35% in six months.
- Collaborated with the sales team to drive lead generation, contributing to a 30% increase in quarterly sales pipeline.
- Organized three annual user conferences, increasing attendance from 200 to 400 participants year-over-year.
- Reduced social media ad spend by 20% while maintaining conversion rates across all platforms.
- Developed and tracked KPIs for all marketing channels, presented campaign results to senior leadership monthly.
EDUCATION
California State University, Los Angeles
Bachelor of Science in Marketing, 2020
SKILLS
Digital Marketing, SEO, Content Creation, Campaign Management, Analytics, CRM SoftwareTip: Each bullet point uses numbers or percentages to describe achievements, which makes them easy for ATS to scan and helps hiring managers understand the candidate’s impact. For more resume-building support and to optimize your resume, consider using RoboApply’s automated tools for measurable improvement.
11) Use chronological or hybrid resume formats
Choosing the right resume format is key to ensuring that online systems and recruiters can easily read your application. Chronological and hybrid formats are the most recommended for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Chronological formats organize your work history by date, with your most recent job first. Hybrid formats combine your skills and experience with a work history section, making your resume both ATS-friendly and easy for hiring managers to scan.
For more detailed insights, review the guidance on ATS resume formats and see which format works best for your needs.
Below is a full-length chronological resume example. This template is ready to use and highlights how to lay out your details for clear tracking by ATS.
Jane Doe
123 Main Street
New York, NY 10001
(555) 555-5555
jane.doe@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/janedoe
Professional Summary
Results-driven administrative assistant with 5+ years’ experience supporting executives, improving office efficiency, and providing excellent customer service. Skilled in Microsoft Office, scheduling, and project coordination.
Work Experience
Administrative Assistant
ABC Corporation, New York, NY
March 2021 – Present
- Supported 3 senior executives with calendar management, travel bookings, and correspondence.
- Organized company events and staff meetings for teams of 20+.
- Maintained filing system, improving document retrieval time by 25%.
- Handled incoming calls and emails, resolving routine issues quickly.
Receptionist
XYZ Office Solutions, Brooklyn, NY
January 2019 – February 2021
- Managed front desk, greeting visitors and answering multi-line phones.
- Scheduled meetings and appointments for office staff.
- Processed mail and delivered packages to staff members.
Education
Associate in Business Administration
City College of New York, 2018
Skills
Microsoft Office, Calendar Management, Event Scheduling, Customer Service, Data Entry
Here is a full-length hybrid resume example. This template combines a strong skills summary with a clear work history, making it effective for both keyword scanning and human readers.
Hybrid formats are recommended for showcasing both experience and specialized skills, which can raise your chances of making it through ATS filters.
Michael Lee
456 Park Avenue
Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 555-0101
michael.lee@email.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/michaellee
Professional Summary
Experienced marketing coordinator skilled in campaign management, digital advertising, and analytics. Known for increasing team performance and driving project success.
Key Skills
- Digital Campaign Development
- Social Media Management
- Data Analysis (Google Analytics)
- Content Creation
- Project Leadership
Professional Experience
Marketing Coordinator
BrightWave Marketing, Chicago, IL
June 2022 – Present
- Plan and execute email marketing campaigns, increasing open rates by 18%.
- Coordinate with graphic designers and copywriters to produce digital ads.
Marketing Assistant
WaveTech Solutions, Chicago, IL
July 2020 – May 2022
- Supported development of social media content across Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
- Assisted in analyzing campaign performance using Google Analytics.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
University of Illinois at Chicago, 2020
If you want to quickly tailor, build, or optimize your resume, you can use RoboApply to optimize your resume for ATS and apply across multiple job boards easily.
Try RoboApply for free
12) Avoid unusual section titles like ‘Where I’ve Worked’
ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) are designed to scan and read resumes using standard section titles. Unusual or creative headings like ‘Where I’ve Worked’ or ‘My Journey’ can confuse the system and may lead to your experience being overlooked.
Always use simple, universally recognized titles such as “Work Experience,” “Professional Experience,” or “Employment History.” This ensures your information is categorized correctly and increases the chances that your resume is seen by a human recruiter.
For more tips on this, visit an ATS-friendly resume guide.
Below is a full-length resume template using traditional section titles. Job seekers can copy, customize, and use this as a base for their own resume.
This format is optimized for ATS compatibility and can help you get noticed by recruiters.
John Smith
john.smith@email.com
(555) 123-4567
Los Angeles, CA
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented marketing coordinator with 4 years of experience in digital campaigns, analytics, and content management. Skilled at collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive brand growth and improve ROI.
Work Experience
Marketing Coordinator – ABC Company, Los Angeles, CA
June 2021 – Present
- Developed and launched digital marketing campaigns, achieving a 20% increase in website traffic.
- Tracked and analyzed campaign metrics, optimizing efforts for better performance.
- Worked with designers and writers to ensure content matched brand vision.
Marketing Assistant – XYZ Corp, Los Angeles, CA
July 2019 – May 2021
- Assisted in creating social media content calendars.
- Monitored campaign results and prepared reports.
- Supported events and webinar logistics.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
University of Southern California, Graduated 2019
Skills
- Digital Marketing
- Social Media Management
- Google Analytics
- Content Creation
Certifications
Google Ads Certified
HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certificate
Using standard section titles is a reliable way to make a resume pass through ATS filters. It avoids confusion and keeps your information organized for recruiters.
For more ways to optimize your resume or auto-apply to jobs across platforms, RoboApply offers additional tools and templates to support your job search.
13) Limit the use of abbreviations and acronyms
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes. These systems may not understand uncommon abbreviations or acronyms, which could cause your important skills or experiences to be ignored.
To make your resume easier for both the ATS and hiring managers to read, always spell out terms the first time, followed by the acronym in parentheses. After that, you can use the acronym alone.
Below is a full-length resume example that demonstrates how to limit and clarify abbreviations and acronyms on an ATS-optimized resume. Key terms are introduced with their full name, and the short form is shown in parentheses.
Jessica Turner
jess.turner@email.com | (555) 123-4567 | Boston, MA
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jessicaturner
Professional Summary
Proactive Marketing Specialist with 6+ years of experience in digital marketing campaigns, search engine optimization (SEO), and pay-per-click (PPC) management. Skilled in team collaboration, project management, and data analytics.
Adept at increasing traffic and conversion rates for B2B and B2C companies.
Work Experience
Digital Marketing Manager
Innovatech Solutions, Boston, MA
February 2021 – May 2025
- Planned and executed online advertising strategies, resulting in a 30% increase in web traffic.
- Led a five-person team to improve company’s social media reach using key performance indicators (KPIs) and analytics.
- Managed search engine optimization (SEO) and paid search (PPC) campaigns, increasing leads by 20%.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams using customer relationship management (CRM) software to track and optimize customer engagement.
- Wrote marketing copy and press releases ensuring alignment with corporate standards.
Marketing Coordinator
Green Wave Agency, Cambridge, MA
June 2018 – January 2021
- Assisted with content creation, email marketing, and public relations (PR) initiatives.
- Designed graphics using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) and managed content calendars.
- Supported event planning, monitored key performance indicators (KPIs), and organized campaign reports.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
University of Massachusetts, Lowell, MA
2014 – 2018
Certifications
- Google Analytics Certified
- HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification
Technical Skills
- Social media management (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram)
- Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
- Content management system (CMS): WordPress
- Customer relationship management (CRM): Salesforce
Volunteer Experience
Event Coordinator, Boston Nonprofit Expo
January 2019 – December 2020
Professional Affiliations
- Member, American Marketing Association (AMA)
References available upon request
14) Optimize your resume with active verbs
Using active verbs is important for making a resume easy to read and impactful. Resume writers should replace passive language with strong, direct action verbs.
Terms like “managed,” “designed,” or “implemented” clearly communicate job responsibilities and results. Candidates can find lists of powerful action verbs on sites such as Jobscan and Novoresume.
Job seekers can optimize your resume with these strategies using RoboApply or other resume builders that support ATS optimization.
Below is a full-length resume template using active verbs throughout every section.
John Taylor
Los Angeles, CA 90001 | johntaylor@email.com | (555) 321-8765 | linkedin.com/in/johntaylor
Professional Summary
Analytical Marketing Manager with 7+ years of experience. Developed and launched multi-channel campaigns, boosted lead generation by 25%, and coordinated cross-functional teams to meet quarterly KPIs.
Adept at translating data analytics into actionable marketing strategies. Skilled in digital content, campaign management, and team leadership.
Skills
- Campaign Strategy
- Data Analysis
- Content Development
- Social Media Management
- Project Coordination
- Team Leadership
Professional Experience
Marketing Manager
BlueSky Media, Los Angeles, CA
Jan 2021 – Present
- Orchestrated digital campaigns that increased website traffic by 32% in one year.
- Collaborated with design and sales teams to launch three new products, resulting in a 20% sales uplift.
- Supervised a group of 6 marketers, improving cross-team communication and efficiency.
- Monitored marketing budgets, reducing expenses by 12% while maintaining quality.
- Implemented new analytics tools to evaluate the effectiveness of campaign strategies.
Marketing Specialist
GreenLeaf Corp., Pasadena, CA
Aug 2017 – Dec 2020
- Developed engaging social media content, which grew followership by 50%.
- Assisted the marketing manager in organizing monthly webinars that attracted over 300 attendees.
- Researched competitor trends and proposed new digital marketing initiatives.
- Spearheaded customer feedback surveys to enhance service delivery.
- Produced monthly analytics reports to inform budget decisions.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
California State University, Los Angeles, CA
Graduated: May 2017
Certifications
Google Analytics Certified
HubSpot Content Marketing Certification
Key Achievements
- Planned and executed a rebranding project that increased brand awareness by 40%.
- Reduced social media response time from 8 to 2 hours by establishing new workflow processes.
15) Exclude irrelevant information or outdated skills
When writing a resume for an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), it is important to focus on details that are current and valuable for the job. Adding skills or experiences that are no longer used in your field—or unrelated to the position—can distract hiring managers and lower the resume score during ATS checks.
Always tailor your document to match the job description, keeping only those qualifications that show you are the best fit. For extra help in reviewing and updating resumes, tools like those that let you optimize your resume can be valuable.
Below is an example of a resume section that avoids irrelevant data and removes outdated skills:
John Miller
john.miller@email.com | (123) 555-6789 | Phoenix, AZ | linkedin.com/in/johnmiller
Summary
Motivated IT specialist with 5+ years of experience in system administration and network support. In-depth knowledge of cloud platforms and cybersecurity practices.
Focused on delivering strong technical solutions that align with modern business needs.
Core Skills
- Windows and Linux Server Management
- Network Security
- AWS Cloud Services
- Powershell & Bash Scripting
- Technical Troubleshooting
- End-User Training
Work Experience
Systems Administrator
LumenTech Solutions, Phoenix, AZ
March 2021 – Present
- Managed Windows and Linux servers for over 300 users, including patching and server upgrades.
- Administered AWS EC2 instances and S3 storage, cutting costs by 18% through optimization.
- Led security audits and updated firewall protocols to comply with new standards.
- Delivered onboarding IT training to 60+ employees.
IT Support Specialist
DataZone Corp., Phoenix, AZ
June 2018 – Feb 2021
- Provided remote and in-person troubleshooting for software and hardware issues.
- Developed knowledge base articles to improve incident response times.
Education
BSc, Information Systems
Arizona State University, 2018
Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
16) Keep formatting simple with left alignment
Keeping your resume’s formatting simple, especially by using left alignment, makes it easier for both humans and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan your information accurately. Left alignment helps keep your content organized and avoids confusion caused by inconsistent or center-aligned sections.
Using a clean, left-aligned template also reduces the chance of formatting errors when applying to jobs, especially across sites powered by ATS systems.
Below is a copy-and-paste-ready resume template that is fully left-aligned. This template keeps everything clear and professional, increasing the likelihood your details will be read and understood by both recruiters and automated systems.
Jessica Wright
jessicawright@email.com | (555) 123-4567 | San Jose, CA | linkedin.com/in/jessicawright
Professional Summary
Organized and detail-oriented administrative assistant with 4+ years of experience supporting busy office environments. Skilled in calendar management and coordinating multiple priorities. Adept at using Microsoft Office Suite and handling confidential information. Eager to use proven skills to support office operations at ABC Corporation.
Experience
Administrative Assistant
Global Tech Solutions, San Jose, CA
June 2020 – Present
- Provide daily administrative support to a team of 15 staff and 3 executives.
- Manage travel, calendar scheduling, and expense reporting.
- Prepare and proofread correspondence, reports, and presentations.
Office Coordinator
Peak Services, San Jose, CA
January 2018 – May 2020
- Streamlined office supply ordering, reducing costs by 15%.
- Acted as primary liaison for building management and service vendors.
- Supported hiring and onboarding processes for new employees.
Education
San Jose City College, San Jose, CA
Associate Degree in Business Administration, 2017
Skills
- Calendar management
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Data entry
- Event coordination
Certifications
Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), 2022
References available upon request.This format uses clear left alignment for all sections, headers, and bullet points. It avoids text boxes, tables, or columns that can disrupt ATS parsing.
17) Use standard date formats such as MM/YYYY
Using a standard date format like MM/YYYY on your resume ensures clarity and consistency. Most recruiters and automated systems expect dates to appear in this format because it is easy to read and avoids confusion.
Sticking to formats like MM/YYYY or Month/YYYY is a best practice for ATS-friendly resumes. Consistency in date formatting helps automated tracking software correctly parse your work history.
Below is a copy-and-paste ready example of a full resume using the MM/YYYY date format throughout all sections:
Emma Marshall
Chicago, IL 60616 | (555) 123-4567 | emma.marshall@email.com | linkedin.com/in/emmamarshall
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented marketing professional with 6+ years of experience in digital marketing, branding, and client management. Proven record in driving online campaigns and managing cross-functional teams. Seeking to leverage digital expertise at a growth-focused agency.
Experience
Digital Marketing Specialist
Arcadia Media Group, Chicago, IL
03/2021 – Present
- Planned and executed digital campaigns for 15+ corporate clients leading to a 30% average increase in web traffic.
- Managed content calendars and wrote SEO-optimized copy for blogs and newsletters.
- Tracked campaign analytics and prepared monthly reports for clients.
Marketing Coordinator
Brightleaf Branding, Evanston, IL
06/2018 – 02/2021
- Coordinated five branding projects involving cross-functional teams.
- Developed social media strategies that raised engagement by 20% in one year.
- Updated press releases and managed email marketing efforts.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Marketing
University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL
09/2014 – 05/2018
Skills
- Digital Campaign Management
- Social Media Strategy
- Content Creation and SEO
- Google Analytics
- Email Marketing Tools
Certifications
Google Analytics Certified
05/2023
References available upon request.If unsure about formatting, platforms like RoboApply can help you optimize your resume and auto-apply to jobs across platforms.
18) Include a concise professional summary
A concise professional summary is a short paragraph at the top of a resume that quickly shows hiring managers who the applicant is and what they offer. It covers key qualifications, skills, and career goals in 3-4 sentences.
This brief section helps resumes stand out in ATS systems and makes it easier for recruiters to spot relevant details. When writing a summary, use simple language, include the job title, and match skills and keywords from the job description.
This helps your resume pass automated checks and impress hiring managers. Platforms like RoboApply can help optimize your resume and summary for different job boards and positions.
Example:
Professional Summary
Customer-focused Administrative Assistant with 5+ years of experience supporting office operations and enhancing team productivity. Skilled at managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and handling confidential documents in fast-paced environments.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and familiar with basic accounting software. Seeking to leverage organizational skills and attention to detail to contribute to a dynamic administrative team.
Recognized for excellent communication, problem-solving skills, and reliability in previous roles. Consistently praised by managers for a positive attitude and commitment to meeting deadlines.
Dedicated to helping teams run efficiently through proactive support and thoughtful coordination. Eager to bring a strong work ethic and a service-oriented mindset to a new office setting.
Try RoboApply for free.
19) Tailor your resume to each job application
To get through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catch the attention of recruiters, job seekers should change their resume for every job they apply to. This involves matching keywords from the job description, focusing on relevant skills and achievements, and only including experience that fits the position.
By targeting each application, candidates increase their chances of landing interviews and moving forward in the hiring process. Learning how to optimize your resume for different roles can make a significant difference.
Here is a full-length, copy-and-paste resume example that is tailored to a marketing coordinator job. This sample emphasizes relevant experience, skills, and keywords directly from a typical marketing coordinator posting.
Jane Williams
jane.williams@email.com | (555) 678-1234 | Austin, TX | www.linkedin.com/in/janewilliams
Professional Summary
Detail-oriented Marketing Coordinator with 3 years of experience supporting digital and print campaigns. Skilled in social media strategy, market research, and event coordination.
Proven ability to increase brand engagement through targeted campaigns and content creation. Seeking to contribute creative marketing strategies to Acme Corp’s growth team.
Key Skills
- Social media management
- Digital marketing
- Copywriting and content creation
- Marketing analytics and reporting
- Campaign coordination
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Event planning
- Market research
Professional Experience
Marketing Assistant
BrightPath Solutions, Austin, TX
March 2022 – May 2025
- Supported creation and scheduling of social media posts, increasing engagement by 28% using targeted content.
- Assisted with market research for new product launches, summarizing findings for management.
- Coordinated logistics for trade shows and events, handling vendor relationships and promotional materials.
- Collaborated with design and sales departments to create online and print content.
Marketing Intern
NextGen Media, Austin, TX
June 2021 – February 2022
- Helped develop and execute summer campaign across Facebook and Instagram.
- Organized weekly analytics reports presented to senior marketing staff.
- Drafted marketing emails to boost event attendance by 12%.
Education
B.A. in Marketing, University of Texas at Austin, 2021
Certifications
Google Analytics Certified, 2023
Keywords from Job Description:
Marketing campaign, brand engagement, analytics, digital marketing, social media, event coordination, content creation, Adobe Creative Suite
Candidates can also use tools to build your resume with RoboApply to simplify the process and improve their chances.
20) Avoid columns and multiple alignment styles
Most applicant tracking systems (ATS) struggle to read resumes that use columns or mixed alignments. Resumes with complicated formatting can get scrambled, causing important information to be lost or misread by the system.
Job seekers should use a straightforward, single-column layout with consistent, left alignment. This increases the chances that all resume details are properly parsed and your qualifications make it through ATS screening.
ATS-friendly resume templates and platforms like RoboApply can help ensure your formatting is compliant and effective.
Here is a full-length example resume template that avoids columns and sticks to a single, clear alignment style.
John Doe
123 Main Street
City, State 12345
(555) 555-1234
john.doe@email.com
Objective
Motivated administrative professional with 5+ years of experience seeking an Office Manager role. Strong organizational skills, communication, and a dedication to improving daily operations.
Experience
Administrative Assistant
ABC Company, City, State
June 2020 – Present
- Coordinated office schedules and managed calendar for a 15-person team.
- Ordered supplies, processed invoices, and handled confidential documentation.
- Trained 4 new hires in company software and procedures.
Office Clerk
XYZ Corp, City, State
August 2017 – May 2020
- Provided front desk support, including answering phones and greeting visitors.
- Maintained employee records and filed essential paperwork.
- Assisted with updating internal systems and mailing documents.
Education
Associate of Arts in Business Administration
State Community College, City, State
Graduated May 2017
Skills
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Data entry
- Report preparation
- Scheduling and calendar management
- Customer service
Certifications
Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)
References
Available upon request.
This resume uses only left alignment and one column. Every section is clearly marked and there are no mixed formats.
For more help structuring your resume and making it ATS-compatible, you can optimize your resume or build your resume with RoboApply.
Frequently Asked Questions
ATS-friendly resumes rely on clear formatting, strong keyword matching, and correctly labeled sections to pass automated screenings and reach recruiters.
What constitutes an ATS-friendly resume template?
An ATS-friendly resume template is designed for compatibility with automated tracking systems used by many employers. It avoids images, tables, and graphics, uses standard section headers, and sticks to simple fonts and layouts.
Most importantly, it makes sure text can be easily scanned and sections are clearly labeled. Users can optimize your resume with RoboApply templates built for ATS compatibility.
Full ATS Resume Template Example:
John Doe
johndoe@email.com | (555) 555-5555 | LinkedIn.com/in/johndoe
Professional Summary
Results-driven marketing specialist with 5+ years of experience in digital campaigns and social media management.
Experience
Marketing Specialist
ABC Corp, Los Angeles, CA
March 2020–Present
- Developed campaigns that increased web traffic by 30%
- Managed content calendar for three main platforms
- Tracked and reported on campaign performance
Education
B.A. in Marketing, University of California, 2019
Skills
Digital Marketing, Social Media, Google Analytics, CopywritingHow can I ensure a high ATS score for my resume?
To achieve a high ATS score, job seekers should use language and keywords found in the job description, avoid fancy formatting, and structure their resumes with clear, consistent headers.
RoboApply can help by scanning resumes for keywords and providing feedback on formatting to improve ATS scores.
Keyword Optimization Workflow:
- Copy the required and preferred skills from the job posting.
- Insert these keywords exactly (when applicable) in your resume’s skills and experience.
- Use standard section labels like “Skills,” “Experience,” and “Education.”
- Run your resume through an ATS checker like RoboApply’s resume score tool to spot missing keywords or formatting errors.
What are the key elements to include in a resume for someone with long-term employment at the same company?
For professionals with long tenure at one company, it’s important to break down achievements by roles or promotions and focus on impact, skills developed, and results delivered over time.
Resume Section Example for Long-Term Employment:
Experience
XYZ Industries, New York, NY
2005–2025
Senior Project Manager (2017–2025)
- Led a team of 12 to deliver projects 20% under budget
- Improved on-time delivery rate from 80% to 98%
Project Manager (2012–2017)
- Managed cross-functional teams on $2M+ projects
Assistant Project Manager (2005–2012)
- Coordinated between vendors and clients to improve workflowWhere can I find free ATS resume templates for Word?
Job seekers looking for free ATS-ready templates can use platforms like RoboApply, which offers customizable templates that follow best practices for applicant tracking systems.
Sites such as Jobscan and Enhancv also provide ATS resume template options that are compatible with Microsoft Word.
What are the latest updates to ATS algorithms that I should be aware of when creating my resume?
Recent ATS improvements better handle common file types, especially DOCX and PDF, and are now better at parsing both simple and complex experiences when standard labels are used.
Algorithms can still struggle with unusual graphics, columns, and tables, so these should be avoided. Using a simple layout helps keep resumes ready for any new changes in ATS systems.
How do I tailor my resume for different industries while maintaining ATS compatibility?
To effectively tailor a resume, job seekers should update the skills, experiences, and keywords to match each industry. Keep a consistent and clean format.
Industry-specific terms should be added to both the skill and experience sections. The layout should remain simple for ATS parsing.
Industry Tailoring Example:
For applicants switching from retail to tech:
Experience
Retail Sales Associate, MegaStore, Dallas, TX, 2018–2022
- Delivered outstanding customer service to over 100 clients weekly
- Used POS and inventory systems to track sales
Technical Skills
- Inventory Management, Data Entry, CRM Software
For a tech resume:
Experience
Customer Support Specialist, MegaStore, Dallas, TX, 2018–2022
- Provided tech troubleshooting for POS and inventory software
- Trained 10+ new hires on digital systems
Technical Skills
- POS Troubleshooting, CRM Platforms, Data AnalyticsTo auto-apply to jobs across platforms, RoboApply streamlines resume customization and submission for any industry.
