Last updated on Jul 15, 2024

You're striving for a standout resume. How do you blend ATS keywords with an eye-catching layout?

In today's job market, your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. It's crucial to strike the perfect balance between being machine-readable for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and visually appealing to human eyes. An ATS is a software used by employers to filter resumes based on certain keywords related to the job description. However, an eye-catching layout is equally important to grab the attention of the hiring manager once your resume has passed the initial ATS screening. The challenge lies in integrating ATS-friendly keywords without compromising the aesthetic and readability of your resume.

1 Understanding ATS

Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS, are designed to scan and rank resumes based on the presence of specific keywords. These systems help employers manage the influx of applications by filtering out candidates who don't meet certain criteria. To ensure your resume makes it through this first round of screening, you must identify the keywords and phrases that are relevant to the job you're applying for. These often include job-specific skills, software, and qualifications. Incorporate these keywords naturally throughout your resume, particularly in sections like your professional summary and skills list, to increase the likelihood of passing the ATS check.

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Reshmi Nebumpilly
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Keywords and Phrases: Job Description: Carefully read the jd and identify key skills, qualifications, and responsibilities mentioned. Industry Terms: Include relevant industry-specific terms and phrases. Standard Formatting: File Format: Save resume in an ATS-friendly format such as .docx or .pdf. Simple Layout: Use a clean and simple layout without intricate designs or complex tables that ATS might struggle to read. Use professional fonts like Arial, Calibri,Use clear headers and sections to organize your content logically Use bullet points to make your resume easy Start with a strong headline and a summary that includes key ATS keywords. Include keywords naturally and avoid overstuffing highlighting your role and the impact.

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Ibrahim Ayman

Coordinator External Agency ✅||HR Freelance and Resume Writer📝||Helping Students and Fresh Grads Land Their Dream Jobs🪙
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Creating a standout resume that is both ATS-friendly and visually appealing involves balancing keyword optimization with a clean, professional design. Here's how to achieve this blend: 1. Keyword Optimization for ATS Identify Relevant Keywords: Extract keywords from the job description, focusing on skills, qualifications, and industry-specific terms. Incorporate Keywords Naturally: Integrate these keywords seamlessly into your resume sections (Summary, Skills, Experience, Education).

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Ibrahim Ayman

Coordinator External Agency ✅||HR Freelance and Resume Writer📝||Helping Students and Fresh Grads Land Their Dream Jobs🪙
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Steps to Blend ATS Keywords with an Eye-Catching Layout Research Keywords: Identify keywords from the job description and industry standards that are relevant to your skills and experience. Incorporate Keywords Naturally: Use these keywords naturally throughout your resume, including in your summary, skills, experience, and education sections. Use Standard Fonts and Formatting: Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, and avoid excessive use of bold, italics, or underlining that can confuse ATS. Organize with Headings and Sections: Use clear headings and sections (e.g., Professional Experience, Skills, Education) to structure your resume logically and make it easy to read.

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2 Keyword Integration

Mastering the art of keyword integration is essential for an ATS-optimized resume. Start by carefully reading the job description and noting the skills and experiences that are emphasized. Use these as your guide for the keywords you'll need to include. When integrating them into your resume, context is key; don't just list keywords, but weave them into descriptions of your accomplishments and responsibilities. This approach not only satisfies the ATS criteria but also maintains a natural flow that's more engaging for human readers.

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Claudia Pinheiro 🇵🇹🇧🇷

International Relocation Specialist 🚀 | Career Mentor | Executive Search l Psychologist | Outplacement Specialist | Speaker | Linkedin Specialist | Work in Portugal | Instagram @claudiapinheiro_coach
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Um currículo dever claro e objetivo para entendimento do recrutador, deve ter aderência às palavras chaves do seu perfil e do perfil das vagas a que tem interesse. Preocupe-se com o conteúdo mas apresente um currículo estruturado (resumo, formação, experiência, skill técnicas, cursos..) tudo de forma clara e objetiva.

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3 Layout Design

A visually appealing layout is vital to make your resume stand out once it's in human hands. While creativity can set you apart, it's important to be strategic. Use clear headings, bullet points, and ample white space to ensure readability. Stick to standard fonts and avoid images or graphics that can confuse the ATS. The goal is to create a professional and polished look that's easy to navigate while showcasing your individuality.

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Priscila Lima

Estrategista de Carreira | Especialista em Recolocação e Currículos | LinkedIn que Gera Resultados | Expert em Atendimento ao Cliente e Assistência Virtual
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Um layout que seja básico mas aquele básico bem feito,não é necessário um modelo diferente para ser atraente,coloque de preferência no word mesmo e destaque os pontos importantes e relevantes a vaga.

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Larissa Barbosa

Consultora de Recolocação | Recrutadora | Headhunter | Especialista em Currículo e LinkedIn | Recrutamento e Seleção | R&S | @larissabarbosacarreiras
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O básico bem feito sempre traz excelentes resultados. O ATS tem dificuldade em identificar textos em colunas, gráficos, imagens e símbolos. Para não ter problemas quanto a isso, optar por um modelo tradicional é a estratégia mais assertiva.

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4 Balancing Act

Achieving the right balance between ATS-friendly content and an engaging layout requires attention to detail. You need to format your resume in a way that's both machine-readable and visually pleasing. This means prioritizing clarity and structure while also allowing your personal brand to shine through. Choose a clean, professional template and customize it to reflect your unique strengths and personality. Remember, a well-balanced resume demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively and shows respect for both the technological and human aspects of the hiring process.

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5 Tactical Tips

To finesse this blend of form and function, consider some tactical tips. Use standard section titles like "Work Experience" or "Education" to ensure the ATS can easily categorize your information. For layout, employ bolding or italics sparingly to highlight important details without overwhelming the reader. Always proofread your resume to catch any errors that could trip up an ATS or detract from your professionalism. By being meticulous in both content and presentation, you'll craft a resume that's not just a piece of paper, but a strategic tool in your job search.

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6 Final Touches

Before sending off your resume, give it a final polish to ensure it's ATS-compatible while still retaining its visual impact. Test the readability by using different devices and screen sizes to see how your layout holds up. Consider having a friend or mentor review it for both content and aesthetics. Their feedback can be invaluable in identifying areas where the balance between keywords and design might need adjustment. With these final touches, your resume will not only pass through ATS filters but also make a memorable impression on any hiring manager.

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Paul Mullan

I create CAREER HAPPINESS, one 😊 at a time | Outplacement Consultant | Career Coach | CV Writer | Interview Coach
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Be careful of both 👇 Eye-catching layout ❌ Don't be obsessed with Canva ❌ Don't make it hard for reader ✅ Keep it clean + simple ATS keywords ❌ Don't just dump keywords ❌ This WONT get you interviews ✅ Focus on impact | achievements Best of luck 🍀

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You're striving for a standout resume. How do you blend ATS keywords with an eye-catching layout?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Understanding ATS

2 Keyword Integration

3 Layout Design

4 Balancing Act

5 Tactical Tips

6 Final Touches

Resume Writing

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You're striving for a standout resume. How do you blend ATS keywords with an eye-catching layout?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Understanding ATS

2 Keyword Integration

3 Layout Design

4 Balancing Act

5 Tactical Tips

6 Final Touches

Resume Writing

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