How to Optimize Your Resume for Applicant Tracking Systems in 2025

ATS software scans resumes for keywords, formatting, and structure to match job requirements. If your resume lacks specific terms or uses incompatible formats, it’s rejected automatically. For instance, an ATS might prioritize resumes with ‘project management’ if listed in the job description, even if the skill is implied elsewhere. ResumeMaker ensures compatibility with systems like Taleo and Workday by offering plain-text exports and standardized layouts. Understanding this process helps you tailor your content effectively, increasing your chances of passing the initial screening.

• Use Relevant Keywords: Extract terms from the job description (e.g., ‘data analysis’ or ‘customer service’) and integrate them naturally. ResumeMaker’s AI scans postings and suggests the best matches to boost your ATS score.
• Avoid Complex Formatting: Avoid tables, headers/footers in PDFs, or exotic fonts, which can confuse ATS parsers. ResumeMaker provides ATS-friendly templates with simple, scannable designs.
• Ensure Consistent Headings: Use standard headings like ‘Work Experience’ or ‘Education’ to help ATS categorize content. ResumeMaker auto-suggests these for uniformity across your resume.
• Include Standard Fonts: Stick to Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri (10-12pt body, 14-16pt headings). ResumeMaker enforces these defaults to avoid parsing errors.
• Add a Skills Section: List skills explicitly (e.g., ‘Proficient in Excel, Python’) to improve keyword density. ResumeMaker’s editor simplifies this process.

• Use Relevant Keywords: Extract terms from the job description (e.g., ‘data analysis’ or ‘customer service’) and integrate them naturally. ResumeMaker’s AI scans postings and suggests the best matches to boost your ATS score.
• Avoid Complex Formatting: Avoid tables, headers/footers in PDFs, or exotic fonts, which can confuse ATS parsers. ResumeMaker provides ATS-friendly templates with simple, scannable designs.
• Ensure Consistent Headings: Use standard headings like ‘Work Experience’ or ‘Education’ to help ATS categorize content. ResumeMaker auto-suggests these for uniformity across your resume.
• Include Standard Fonts: Stick to Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri (10-12pt body, 14-16pt headings). ResumeMaker enforces these defaults to avoid parsing errors.
• Add a Skills Section: List skills explicitly (e.g., ‘Proficient in Excel, Python’) to improve keyword density. ResumeMaker’s editor simplifies this process.

ResumeMaker stands out with features like real-time keyword analysis, plain-text export options, and ATS-friendly templates. The built-in ATS simulator tests your resume against common algorithms, providing a score and actionable suggestions. For example, if your resume lacks ‘team collaboration’ (a key term), ResumeMaker prompts you to add it, ensuring compatibility with 2025 employer systems. Additionally, the platform’s premium export option includes structured data (e.g., JSON-LD), which future-proofs your resume for evolving ATS technologies.

Many job seekers fall into traps like using graphics-heavy resumes (unreadable by ATS), submitting in unsupported formats (e.g., JPEG), or overstuffing keywords unnaturally. To avoid these, use ResumeMaker’s preview tool to check ATS readability, export only in PDF or plain text when required, and let the AI distribute keywords evenly. Another pitfall is neglecting job-specific tailoring—adjust your resume per application using ResumeMaker’s customizable fields to align with each job’s unique requirements.

As ATS technology advances, expect smarter parsing and semantic analysis. To future-proof your resume, include a mix of exact keywords and related terms (e.g., ‘project management’ and ‘project coordination’), use structured data like JSON-LD (supported by ResumeMaker’s premium export), and keep content updated with 2025 industry trends such as remote work skills. ResumeMaker’s ongoing updates ensure your resume remains compatible with emerging ATS standards, keeping you competitive in the job market. Check out our related guide on tailoring your resume for more tips!