Why Resumes Aren’t Read the Way They Used to Be
Once upon a time, a hiring manager sat with a stack of resumes. Today, most applications never reach a person first—they’re screened by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These tools are powered by AI and scan for skills, formatting, and keywords before a human recruiter even sees your name.
A 2025 Jobscan study found that virtually all Fortune 500 companies and about 65% of small to mid-size businesses rely on ATS for screening. Translation? If your resume isn’t ATS-friendly, it doesn’t matter how talented you are—you may never even make it to the shortlist.
Speak the Language the System Understands
Think of your resume as a conversation with the job description. If the posting asks for “Python, SQL, and Tableau,” don’t just write “skilled in data tools.” Use the exact terms. ATS systems are literal. The difference between landing in the recruiter’s inbox or the rejection pile can be as small as missing a keyword.
Pro tip: Copy the job description into a keyword scanner tool (many are free) and compare it to your resume. The gaps are usually where ATS filters get you.
Keep It Clean, Simple, and Scan-Ready
Resumes with fancy fonts, graphics, or tables often confuse AI scanners. Stick to tried-and-true section headers like Experience, Education, and Skills. Use bullet points for achievements, and keep formatting straightforward.
Instead of writing:
“Responsible for managing a sales team.”
Write:
“Led a 5-member sales team, increasing regional revenue by 25% in six months.”
Numbers, results, and clarity always win.
LinkedIn: Your Resume’s Public Twin
ATS filters your resume, but many recruiters go straight to LinkedIn to check your profile before deciding on next steps. According to a 2024 Forbes survey, 65% of employers now use AI-driven filters on LinkedIn profiles during early screening. That means your profile needs the same keyword precision as your resume.
- Update your headline with more than just your job title—try: “Digital Marketing Manager | SEO & Performance Ads | Content Strategy.”
- Add certifications
- Showcase portfolio links
- Request recommendations to build trust signals
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