NEWSLETTER
Introduction
Do you have the experience and skills to land your dream job at companies like Bain & Company, BCG or McKinsey but can't get through the recruiting process with your current resume? If so, you are not alone!
Do you want to know why you can't get over the first hurdle?
These companies automate the selection of resumes with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
As we all know, a resume is often the first impression a potential employer receives in today's highly competitive job market. But getting noticed can be difficult with applicant tracking systems (ATS) sifting through countless applications. This is where Overleaf, a powerful online tool, comes in handy. But what are applicant tracking systems (ATS)? We will talk about this later in the article. We'll also show you how to craft an ATS-compliant resume using Overleaf, ensuring your skills and experience shine through the digital filter and land you that interview!
What makes a resume ATS compliant?
You may be wondering, “What is ATS and how can I make my resume ATS-compliant?” Don't worry; I can explain everything to you.
ETA It represents Applicant Tracking System. As the name suggests, it is a software program that recruiters and employers use to manage the hiring process electronically. These systems automate many hiring-related tasks, from collecting resumes and applications to screening candidates and scheduling interviews.
An ATS-compliant resume is a written document that can be understood and classified effectively by a computer program. Here's what makes a resume eligible for an Applicant Tracking System (ATS):
- Focus on keywords: ATS loves keywords! This means incorporating relevant skills, experience, and qualifications mentioned in the job description throughout your resume. Think of it as tagging yourself in a digital filing system, making it easier for the ATS to find you for the perfect position.
- Formatting for scannability: Forget fancy fonts and artistic designs. ATS prefers clean, well-structured resumes. This means using clear headings, bullet points, and a simple, easy-to-read format.
- Simple and readable text: While you want your content to be impressive, keep the language clear and concise. Avoid using overly complex formats that may confuse the ATS. Think standard fonts like Times New Roman or Arial and leave the creativity to your cover letter.
Now that you understand the key features of an ATS-compliant resume, let's explore how Overleaf can help you create one. You can create a resume in two ways.
Method 1: Using Back Templates
These are the steps of method 1:
Step 1: Visit Overleaf and create your account
Step 2: Continue with the Free Plan
Step 2: Choose ATS compatible Resume Template
Step 3: Highlight your keyword skills. Use ChatGPT to modify the Latex code accordingly.
One of the most crucial aspects of an ATS-compliant resume is keyword optimization. This is how Overleaf helps:
- Simple text editing: The back allows you to easily replace generic phrases with action verbs and specific skills mentioned in the job description.
- Targeted content: By editing the text within the template, you can ensure that your resume speaks directly to the skills and experience the employer is looking for.
Stage 4: Format resume for ATS.
While Overleaf provides an easy-to-use interface, it is important to maintain the readability of the ATS:
- Customize fonts: Use standard fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial for optimal ATS recognition.
- Section format: Use the template's built-in formatting options for headings, bullets, and section breaks.
- Accessibility considerations: Consider using the
accsuppPackage to add invisible text descriptions for icons or graphics, ensuring accessibility for humans and ATS.
Method 2: use back, ChatGPT and Linkedin
Step 1: Visit Linkedin
Step 2: Click Create a Resume and download a basic resume.
Step 3: Visit ChatGPT and provide the following message to ChatGPT
“Write me a latex code using the following information.”
Stage 4: Paste the content of the Basic Curriculum with the Notice
Step 6: Copy the exit code
Step 6: Visit overleaf and log in
Step 7: Create a blank project
Step 8: Paste the copied Latex code (from step 6) into the coding section
Step 9: Make the necessary changes to the Latex code until you obtain the desired resume.
Let's optimize the resume for human readers
Creating an ATS-friendly resume using Overleaf is a great first step, but remember that your resume needs to impress a human reader: the hiring manager.
Remind the human reader:
- Tailor your content: Don't copy and paste the same generic resume for every job application. Highlight the skills and experiences mentioned in the job description and show how they translate into valuable contributions to the company.
- Quantify your achievements: Numbers say everything! Use metrics and data to quantify your achievements whenever possible. Did you increase sales by 20% or streamline a process by 30%? Including quantifiable results adds weight to your experience and demonstrates your impact.
Correction and formatting:
- Error-free content: Typos and grammatical errors can be a big obstacle for hiring managers. Take advantage of Overleaf's spell checking tools and meticulously proofread your resume before submitting it.
- Consistent format: Maintain a professional appearance by ensuring consistent formatting throughout your resume. This includes using the same font size and style for headings and body text and maintaining consistent spacing and alignment.
By focusing on both ATS optimization and human readability, you can create a resume that the software will notice and impress the hiring manager, ultimately increasing your chances of landing that interview.
Also Read: Data Analyst Resume Secrets: How to Stand Out from the Crowd in 2024
Conclusion
Creating an ATS-compliant resume is key in today's job market. Overleaf offers two methods to achieve this: templates or a combination of Overleaf, ChatGPT, and LinkedIn. Both emphasize keyword optimization and clear formatting for ATS, but don't forget the human reader! Tailor your content, quantify achievements, and ensure error-free formatting. By balancing ATS optimization and human appeal, you will increase your chances of landing your dream job.
I hope you landed your dream job at your dream company. Let us know how Overleaf helped you land the job. For more articles like this, explore our blog section today!
