Tips to Improve the ATS Resume Score

Meet Alex. Great resume, solid experience, applied for a dream job... and heard nothing back.

Why? A low ATS resume score.

Today, most companies use software to scan resumes. If your resume ATS score doesn’t match the job, it’s game over before a human even sees it.

The ATS score of a resume decides your resume ranking. That’s why it’s crucial to check the ATS score of your resume before applying. Don’t leave your next job to chance, optimize it smartly.

Here’s how you can increase your resume’s chances of making it past the digital gatekeeper:

Here are the 10 most important tips to improve your ATS Resume Score:

1. Use the Right Keywords in a Natural Tone

The number one reason resumes get rejected? Lack of relevant keywords.
Use keywords from the job description in your resume, job titles, skills, certifications, and tools.

Example: If the job mentions “project management” or “agile,” make sure those exact words appear in your resume, but in context.

There are several free ATS resume checker tools available on the internet to do so, for example: ResuScan on mployee.me. 

2. Customize your CV for Each Application

No two jobs are the same, so your resume shouldn’t be either. Tailor your resume to each job description. Job-description matching is critical to get through the attempted scan by the ATS. Take some time to read the job description carefully and provide the ATS with relevant skills, qualification, and resume keywords from the job listing in your resume.

Don't let your resume be one-size-fits-all because these resumes get filtered out fast.

3. Keep the Designs and Layouts Simple

ATS systems love simplicity. Try avoiding fancy layouts, graphics, icons, and tables. Instead, use a readable font in bold or italics wherever necessary. 

Stick to a clean format that a CV creator can provide.
Use standard section headings like “Work Experience,” “Skills,” and “Education.”

4. Use a Professional CV Creator

Free templates are tempting, but many mess with the formatting and hurt your ATS resume score. Use a CV creator specifically designed for ATS compatibility. Many tools offer templates optimized for ATS, try to focus on them.

Look for one that offers a built-in ATS score checker or resume ranking tool.

5. Spell Out Acronyms Once in the Resume

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) aren’t always as smart as they sound. They can miss key qualifications if you only use acronyms. For example, if you write “CPA,” the system might skip it unless you also write “Certified Public Accountant” somewhere in your resume.

This can seriously lower your ATS resume score and overall resume ranking, even if you're highly qualified.

Cover your bases. Use both forms at least once in your resume.

6. Include a Skills Section

There's one area the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) loves scanning, it's the Skills section. Why? Because it's where recruiters (and bots) look to see if you’ve got what the job requires.

A clearly labeled skills section can significantly boost your ATS resume score and help your resume rank higher among applicants.

But don’t just throw in buzzwords, try to make sure your skills align with the job description. If a role requires "Google Analytics" or "data visualization," and your resume doesn’t mention them, your resume ATS score will take a hit.

7. Save It in the Right Format

Format matters more than you think. Most ATS prefer resumes in .docx or .pdf formats, but not all systems read PDFs well. When in doubt, use .docx.

Before sending, always double check ATS score of resume to ensure formatting hasn’t caused any errors.

8. Avoid Headers and Footers for Key Info

Add the vital details like your name, phone number, and email address in the main body, not in the header or footer.
Some ATS won’t read headers or footers at all, which can decrease your resume ranking.

9. Keep It Simple and Clear

Use basic fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Font size should be between 10 and 12.

Don’t use unusual job titles like “Sales Ninja” or “Growth Hacker.” Stick with simple and searchable titles like “Sales Manager” or “Digital Marketing Executive.” Your goal is to make your resume easy to read, for both ATS and humans. A clean layout from a CV creator ensures everything gets picked up and ranked properly.

10. Use a Free ATS Resume Checker Before You Apply

Don’t hit submit until you’ve tested your resume.
You wouldn’t submit an essay without proofreading it, right? Then why not double check your resume?

Before clicking “Apply,” run your resume through a free ATS resume checker. These tools analyze your resume against a job posting and give you a detailed resume ATS score, pointing out what’s missing or what needs improvement.

Bonus Tip: Update Regularly

An outdated resume, even a great one can score low. As job descriptions and keyword trends change, keep tweaking your resume.

There are multiple ATS score checker tools online. Here's how to use one:

1. Copy and paste the job description.
   
   

2. Upload your resume or paste it into the tool.
   
   

3. Analyze the score and read the suggestions.
   
   

4. Edit your resume accordingly.
   
   

5. Repeat until you reach a high ATS resume score (aim for 80+).

Improving your ATS resume score doesn’t mean turning your resume into a robot-written script. You still need it to read well when a human sees it. Balance keywords with clarity, use a trusted CV creator, and always check ATS score of resume before applying.

Try mployee.me - a modern resume builder and career toolkit designed with ATS in mind. From smart templates to real-time ATS score checker features, it helps you create a perfect resume faster and smarter.

A little effort and the right tool can open the door to a lot more interviews. And isn’t that what we’re all aiming for?