Final answer:
A resume tailored for an applicant tracking system should be customized for each job application, using consistent formatting and action verbs. Relevant achievements should be quantified, and unclear personal details omitted. Always proofread and consider consulting an employment advisor to optimize your resume.
Step-by-step explanation:
To ensure a resume can be successfully processed by an applicant tracking system (ATS), it is crucial to follow certain best practices. First, remember to do your research and customize your resume for each position, tailoring it to highlight how your skills and experience align with the job requirements. Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description throughout your resume, particularly in the skills and experience sections.
When formatting your resume, maintain consistency and clarity. Use standard fonts, and avoid clutter with too much text or overly complex layouts, as these can confuse the ATS. Importantly, do not include personal information like photos or birth dates since this does not pertain to your professional qualifications and can lead to automatic disqualification by some systems.
In your resume, clearly articulate your achievements, using quantifiable results where possible. Action verbs can make your experiences stand out more vividly, showing you are proactive and result-oriented. Additionally, don’t neglect to proofread your resume to correct any typos or grammatical errors, as these can negatively impact how an ATS and prospective employers perceive your attention to detail.
Lastly, it is beneficial to seek advice from an employment advisor who can provide tailored feedback to improve your resume's effectiveness. They can also assist with optimizing your resume for ATS by reviewing your use of keywords and formatting. Remember to thank the employer for their time and to proofread your resume. Both your email address and voicemail message should convey professionalism.