What the Tech? Upgrading Your Resume in the Age of ATS and AI

Today, more than ever, job seekers are navigating the maze of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), AI, and many more technology-based factors. Some of these platforms and services are the reason why recruiters might not see the applications of some of the strongest candidates. However, the only thing standing in your way might just be you. You have to accept that a company or an organization will not stop using systems that make their work easier, especially with the high volume of resumes they receive daily. That said, it is up to you to get ahead of these systems. With September being “Update Your Resume” month, there is no better time to do this.

Ok Cool, but ATS is Kicking My A**

It probably isn’t. Let's break down what ATS is: ATS is simply a system recruiters use to organize applications, think of it as a digital filing cabinet. Services that claim they have the formula to "beat the ATS" might as well be Charles Ponzi. Instead of worrying about the ATS, sell yourself through your achievements.

Firstly, keywords matter but not as much as you think. Keywords throughout your resume can indicate to a recruiter that you are the right fit but they aren’t used to kick out an applicant. Very few ATS are programmed to score or rank resumes based on keywords. In fact, a majority of recruiters have admitted to not using these features. Secondly, there is a lot of speculation surrounding how ATS identifies headers. Some fields may not be properly parsed therefore if you list work history as "Making an Impact" the ATS won't know what field that goes into but ends up being manually entered anyway. Overall, this still doesn't affect how a resume is reviewed though by a recruiter.

The only technical aspect you should focus on is formatting and design. Keep it cute with the designs, but not too cute. Complex formatting like columns, graphs, charts, and contact information in headers, may prevent the ATS from parsing your information correctly. Stick to a clean and readable layout for the system to process your resume. Moreover, when your resume does reach human eyes, it will help recruiters seamlessly identify whether you are fit for the role.

Recruiters aren't just looking for someone who ticks all the right boxes - they want to see impact and results. So, instead of cramming in every keyword you think will please the algorithm, focus on crafting a narrative that reflects your unique value.

Ditch the generic job descriptions and craft a narrative that highlights your brilliance. This is your chance to show how you’ve gone above and beyond in past roles. Each bullet point should be a snapshot of your ability to lead, innovate, and deliver measurable results. With each application, you should be thinking about how your story grabs attention and says, 'I’m not just a fit - I’m a must-have.'

Remember, the ATS doesn’t hire people - recruiters do.

AI in Hiring: Friend or Foe?

AI is revolutionizing hiring...or is it? The reality lies within the numbers. Companies and organizations receive dozens of applications within hours of sharing about an open role. The overwhelming volume sometimes means that even the best resumes might not be seen. This is partly due to AI-driven services. Then, if your resume reaches recruiters, especially third-party ones, they are looking at two main filters - your job titles and industry experience. If you meet these qualifications, the recruiter will do a deeper dive into your application.

You may have noticed that some ATS will ask if you approve the use of AI in your application process. This is still very new, and I am learning more about it. For now, recruiter consensus is they still review the resumes and make the decisions.

Networking is your best friend. Human connections remain invaluable, and placing a strong referral or networking contact is a key method to help bypass any possible automated processes and get your resume in front of decision-makers.

AI isn’t Your Job Genie, Stop Wishing It Was

As you reflect on these sections, consider whether you are using AI appropriately. Whilst, AI-powered application services that send out applications on your behalf may seem promising, they are likely hurting your chances. Recruiters can spot AI-generated applications, and many view them as spammy or disingenuous.

Remember, third-party recruiters differ from internal recruiters - they work for clients therefore they do not have the luxury of justifying a candidate's potential. As an applicant, all you can do is ensure that your resume clearly communicates your relevant experiences or others that will sell recruiters on how the role was made for you.

Technology is undeniably changing the hiring landscape. Understanding how these systems work is the most powerful tool you have to build an effective resume. Never view it as "beating" the ATS or AI, instead view it as refining it using clarity and relevance.

Let's work together this month to do this, book a call with us now.