What Is an ATS? And How to Make Your Resume Stand Out (to Robots and Recruiters)

Applying for a job today can sometimes feel like sending your resume into a void. A big reason for this is that many organizations use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to handle the large volume of applications they receive.

An ATS is software that helps employers manage their recruitment process. It collects resumes submitted online, organizes them, and in some cases, filters or ranks candidates based on keywords and qualifications. The goal is to streamline hiring so employers can save time and focus on the applicants who best match their needs.

How ATS Works

When you submit a job application, your resume is uploaded into a database. Depending on the employer, there may be hundreds or even thousands of other applications. The ATS allows hiring managers to search applications using specific keywords or have candidates ranked automatically based on criteria they set.

While this helps employers manage applications, it is not a flawless system. ATS software cannot interpret context the way a person can, which means well-qualified candidates may be overlooked if their resume does not match the keywords the employer is searching for.

Who Uses ATS?

While large companies commonly use ATS, they are also widely used by:

  • Staffing agencies
  • Public Sector
  • Mid-sized businesses
  • Small businesses experiencing rapid growth or filling competitive roles
  • Non-profits

Any organization that receives a large number of applications can benefit from using an ATS. It is important to note that employers who post on Indeed and accept applications directly through the platform also have access to Indeed’s ATS tools, which allow them to filter, search, and organize resumes within the system.

Common Myths about ATS

Myth 1: ATS Automatically Rejects Candidates

An ATS does not reject resumes. Instead, it stores them and allows recruiters to search the database. If your resume is not optimized for the system, it may not appear when the recruiter runs a search.

Myth 2: You Need a Super Plain Resume

It is true that overly complex designs with tables, charts, or images can confuse some ATS. However, this does not mean your resume needs to be stripped bare. Clean, professional formatting with standard fonts, bullet points, and bold text works best.

Myth 3: All ATS Work the Same

There are many ATS platforms, and each functions a little differently. What works in one system may not always work in another.

Myth 4: A Human Will Never See Your Resume

Resumes that appear in ATS searches are still reviewed by human hiring managers. Optimizing your resume increases your chances of being seen.

Tailoring Your Resume for ATS

The goal of tailoring your resume is to ensure it matches the language and requirements the ATS is scanning for, without misrepresenting your skills. Here are some best practices:

Use Keywords from the Job Description

  • Include the exact job title where appropriate.
  • Incorporate relevant skills listed in the posting, but only if they are true to your experience.
  • Mirror the language used in the job description. For example, if the posting says “customer service,” use that phrase instead of a synonym like “relationship building.”
  • Use action verbs such as managed, organized, or developed, and avoid vague phrases like “responsible for.”
  • Add a “Skills” section to highlight key abilities.
  • If your field uses acronyms, include both the acronym and the full term.

Format Your Resume for ATS

  • Keep the layout simple. Avoid tables, images, graphics, or text boxes.
  • Use ATS-friendly fonts such as Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Times New Roman, or Georgia.
  • Avoid headers and footers, as many systems cannot read information placed there.
  • Use standard section headings like “Skills,” “Work Experience,” and “Education.” Avoid creative titles that could confuse the system.
  • Maintain 1-inch margins, a consistent date format, and clear language free of jargon.
  • Ensure your contact information is correct and up to date.
  • Use common file types. If none is specified, submit your resume as a .docx or PDF.

Do Not Leave Out Information

The more relevant details you include, the more opportunities there are for the ATS to highlight your resume. A sparse resume makes it less likely to match keyword searches.

Be Honest

Never exaggerate or misrepresent your qualifications. Instead, highlight transferable skills, education, or volunteer experience that align with the role.

Final Thoughts

The purpose of optimizing your resume for ATS is to make sure it passes the first round of screening so that a human hiring manager can review it. A well-tailored resume helps ensure your skills and experience are not overlooked in the hiring process. If you would like more support with tailoring your resume or preparing for your job search, connect with your local WorkBC Centre.

Sources:
Callahan, C. (2024, March 28). WTF is an ATS (and why should job seekers care)? WorkLife. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.worklife.news/technology/ats-candidate/

Henderson, R. (2025, April 7). What Is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)? Jobscan. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.jobscan.co/blog/8-things-you-need-to-know-about-applicant-tracking-systems/

Purcell, K. (2025, September 4). How to Create an ATS Resume. Jobscan. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.jobscan.co/blog/ats-resume/

Indeed Editorial Team. (n.d.). 13 Best Practices to Impress an Applicant Tracking System. Indeed Canada. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://ca.indeed.com/career-advice/resumes-cover-letters/applicant-tracking-system

Novorésumé. (2025). 9 Things You Need to Know About ATS in 2025. Novoresume. Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://novoresume.com/career-blog/things-you-need-to-know-about-ats