How to Write a Resume That Beats the Bots (and Lands Interviews)
The Silent Gatekeepers: Why Resumes Get Rejected
Submitting your resume feels like tossing it into a black hole. The truth? Over 75% of resumes never reach human eyes because of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These software programs scan, sort, and filter resumes before a recruiter decides who moves forward.
If your resume isn’t ATS-friendly, it doesn’t matter how qualified you are — you’ll be filtered out before you even get a chance.
What Makes a Resume ATS-Friendly?
ATS systems look for patterns. Here’s what they reward:
Clear section headers: Use “Work Experience,” “Education,” “Skills.” Avoid clever alternatives like “What I’ve Done.”
Keyword alignment: Pull wording straight from the job description. If it says “project management,” your resume should too.
Simple design: Stick to black text, white background. No images, no graphics, no text boxes.
Common Mistakes That Sink Resumes
Using a template that looks pretty but isn’t scannable. Canva is fun — but ATS isn’t impressed.
Overstuffing with buzzwords. “Synergy-driven visionary” won’t get you far.
Listing outdated info. That summer job in 2012? Time to let it go.
Practical Tips for You
Skip the mailing address — recruiters don’t need it.
Lead with results, not tasks: “Increased engagement by 30%” beats “Managed social media.”
Focus on skills that match the role you want, not every skill you’ve ever learned.
The Human Side Still Matters
Beating the bots is only half the battle. Once your resume gets through, a human will look at it. That means it must be:
Easy to skim: Recruiters spend an average of 7 seconds on first glance.
Well-written: No grammar mistakes, typos, or awkward phrasing.
Tailored: A one-size-fits-all resume rarely impresses.
Final Thought
Your resume doesn’t need to be fancy — it needs to be effective. By blending ATS strategy with storytelling, you’ll finally land interviews instead of ghosted applications.
CTA: At High Tide Resume & Career Services, we craft resumes that pass ATS filters and resonate with real humans. Chart Your Course Today.
