Match Your Job Title and Job Description Exactly
Start by studying the specific job descriptions. Find the exact job title and relevant keywords used by the employer. If a posting says “Software Developer,” don’t say “Programmer” or “Software Engineer” — use the exact job title at least once. That helps AI tools trained to scan for that phrase.Sprinkle these relevant keywords through your resume: in the summary, skills section, and bullet points describing your professional experience. This shows both the applicant tracking system and human recruiters that you really match what they're looking for.For exampleIf the job description uses “Software Developer,” your summary might read:“Experienced Software Developer with a strong background in backend development and cloud-based systems.”And in your experience section:“Worked as a Software Developer on a cross-functional team to build scalable microservices using Python and Docker.”Using the exact job title consistently — where it fits naturally — helps your resume score higher with automated systems and reinforces your fit for the position.Recent research backs this up; according to the AI in Recruitment: What Works, resumes optimized with exact job‑title matches saw a 20% increase in interview invites.
Use Simple Formatting and Showcase Experience with Clear Bullet Points
Fancy templates, graphics, or unusual fonts look great but confuse automated systems. Stick to clean formatting in a Microsoft Word or PDF format, using standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. Avoid headers or footers with important content because ATS software often ignores them.Use clear section headings — Summary, Professional Experience, Education, Skills. In your professional experience section, use bullet points that start with action verbs (managed, led, implemented) and keep them focused and results-driven. A simple bullet point format of about five to eight lines per job is ideal for both AI and human readers.If you’re wondering how to turn these bullet points into a story that recruiters actually care about, check out this guide on how to prep for interviews by turning your experience into impact.Use data (percentages, numbers) to prove your results. This appeals to both AI and any human readers.
For example
Instead of using a template with colored sidebars or icons, keep things clean and structured like this:Professional Experience Backend Developer – XYZ Tech, 2022–2024
- Developed internal APIs using Python and FastAPI for financial data processing.
- Improved database query efficiency by 35% through SQL optimization.
- Collaborated with frontend team to integrate RESTful endpoints into client dashboards.
Optimize Your Skills Section with Relevant Keywords
AI systems and hiring managers scan the skills section to match qualifications to the job. List both hard and soft skills that match the job posting — for example, “Python,” “project management,” “team communication.”Use the same terms found in specific job descriptions. If the job asks for “software development,” include that exact phrase. Aim for eight to twelve clearly listed skills that echo the job requirements.Want a deeper dive into how to match your values and communication style to the right kind of role? Here's how to identify your core work values — so your resume (and career direction) align more naturally.
For example
If the job posting says the role requires experience in backend systems, cloud environments, and team collaboration, your skills section might look like this:Skills
- Software development
- Python
- REST API integration
- AWS (Amazon Web Services)
- SQL and NoSQL databases
- Agile methodology
- Project management
- Team communication
Use AI to Help You Write and Improve Your Resume
You don’t have to write your resume from scratch. In fact, using AI tools like ChatGPT can save time and help you create a recruiter-ready resume — fast. With the right prompts, you can generate strong headline ideas, a professional summary, a keyword-optimized skills section, and even polished bullet points.Here’s how:
- Copy the job description of the role you're applying for.
- Paste it into ChatGPT along with your current resume.
- Use clear prompts to guide the AI to rewrite or build your resume section by section.
- Rebuild your “About” section for LinkedIn using storytelling best practices.
- Rewrite your experience bullets using action verbs and measurable results.
- Suggest 10 top-performing skills based on the job description.
We’ve noticed that resumes built with structured AI input perform better — especially when they’re aligned with the language in the job posting.
Write a Strong Summary with Clear Value
Your summary is your elevator pitch. Make it a short paragraph of two to three lines. Use the job title, key skills, and a quick note of your major success.Use relevant information from your past, like quantifiable results, and again include ATS‑friendly terms like job title, “applicant tracking,” or “project management.”
For example
Detail-oriented Software Developer with 5+ years of experience in software development, specializing in Java and cloud infrastructure. Delivered scalable solutions that improved system uptime by 25% across global teams.Use relevant, measurable information from your past experience, and include ATS-friendly terms where appropriate — like your job title, “applicant tracking,” or “project management.” This helps both AI systems and hiring managers immediately understand the value you offer.And if you're exploring how to make AI your long-term career partner — not just a one-time resume helper — here's how to use AI as your personal career coach.
Tailor Your Job Application for Each Role
You wouldn’t use the same resume for a ride‑hailing company as for a finance firm. Take time to tailor each application:
- Read the job posting carefully.
- Adjust your summary and skills to echo what they want.
- Change bullet points to show experience that matches the job.
For example
If you’re applying for a role in fintech, your summary might say:Software Developer with a focus on secure financial applications, experienced in Python and regulatory compliance tools.And instead of a general bullet like:Developed backend features for multiple applicationsYou might write:Designed and implemented secure payment processing modules in Python, ensuring compliance with financial regulations.This level of alignment shows both ATS and recruiters that your background is a strong fit — and that you’ve made the effort to apply with intention.
Don’t Overload on Graphics or Weird Fonts
ATS can’t read infographics, logos, or decorative elements — and such design features might prevent your resume from being processed correctly. Stick to plain text and avoid using images, icons, or overly creative formatting.Use a black font on a white background, standard section headings (like Summary, Skills, Professional Experience), and maintain clean margins throughout.
For example
Instead of using a template with colorful columns, icons for skills, or charts to show proficiency, go with a straightforward layout like this:Skills:
- Python
- Project management
- Software development
- Team communication
Use a Traditional Resume Template with Flexibility
A well‑structured template avoids confusing the system while still looking professional to recruiters. Tools like Microsoft Word have clean “traditional resume” templates that work well. Save your finished resume in both Word and PDF format. Some ATS prefer Word, others PDF — having both ready keeps your options open.
For example
Choose a template that uses clear section headings like:
- Summary
- Skills
- Professional Experience
- Education
Leverage AI to See How Your Resume Scores
Don’t skip your own initial screening. Use online resume‑scanner tools to check how well your resume ranks for relevant keywords, readability, and format.
For example
Upload your resume to a scanner like Jobscan or ResumeWorded. You’ll get a report showing things like:
- Which keywords from the job description are missing.
- Whether your formatting is ATS-friendly.
- How your skills section compares to what the role requires.
Let AI Help You Beat AI
If you’re applying to a large company or corporation, chances are their ATS includes an internal CV scoring tool — it ranks your resume against others based on keyword match, structure, and relevance. That means you're not just writing for a person — you’re writing for a system trained to filter out resumes fast.That’s why pairing AI-written content with resume optimization tools can give you a real advantage. Once ChatGPT helps you draft your resume, upload it to ResumeWorded or Jobscan. These platforms give you a score and highlight missing keywords, weak sections, or unclear formatting.Then, go back to ChatGPT and prompt it to adjust the text: Prompt:
"Improve this resume to rank in the top 20% for the Software Developer role. Focus on ATS optimization, keyword alignment, and clear formatting."
This approach ensures your resume is fine-tuned for ATS scoring and stands out from the pile — both to bots and humans.
AI resumes for AI systems — it’s the reality of modern hiring. The key is knowing how to guide the tools to work for you.
Include a Smart Cover Letter with ATS Keywords
Not every job posting requires a cover letter, but if they ask, include one. Keep it brief — three small paragraphs. Start with the job title, highlight your top skill matched from the posting, and end with a note of enthusiasm to talk further. Sprinkle in relevant keywords but don’t go overboard. Keep it natural.
For example
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],I’m excited to apply for the Software Developer position at [Company Name]. With over five years in software development and hands-on experience in cloud platforms and project management, I believe I can make a meaningful impact on your team.I’ve recently led a project that delivered an AI-powered tool, improving internal data processing speed by 30%. I’m passionate about building scalable solutions and collaborating across teams to drive real results.I’d love the opportunity to discuss how my skills align with your goals. Thank you for considering my application.This approach adds a personal touch while still supporting your application with ATS-friendly content. Need a refresher on what a great modern cover letter looks like — even when it’s optional? Here’s why they still matter, and how to write one that sounds human.
Refresh Your LinkedIn Profile and Word Document Versions
Your LinkedIn profile is another place where applicant tracking software checks your keywords. Synchronize your resume summary and skills with LinkedIn for consistency. When you upload your resume, use a clean Word document version with the same content you deliver to employers.
For example
If your resume summary says:Software Developer with experience in cloud platforms, project management, and full-stack development.Then your LinkedIn “About” section should reflect the same focus, like:Experienced Software Developer skilled in cloud infrastructure (AWS), Agile project management, and scalable web applications.This alignment helps reinforce your qualifications, boosts your visibility in search results, and makes a positive impression — both with people and systems.
Follow Submitting Best Practices
When you hit submit:
- Use your name and job title in the file name (e.g., “Jane_Doe_Software_Developer_Resume.pdf”). If you're just starting out or thinking about a switch into tech, you might find this breakdown on how to become a support specialist especially helpful.
- Keep files under 2 MB so uploading is smooth.
- Write a short, clear message in the online form (“Please find my resume and cover letter attached.”).
Bonus Tip: Use Yango Tech’s Cloud Platform Tools to Get Ahead
Getting past AI resume screening isn’t impossible — it just takes a disciplined approach and the right tools. You can apply the same strategy to your own resume:
- Match job title and job description exactly.
- Use clear formatting in Word or PDF.
- Optimize skills and summary with relevant keywords.
- Tailor resumes for each job application.
- Use action‑based bullet points with measurable results. And if you’re exploring roles beyond traditional tech — say in support or client services — here’s how to grow into a Key Account Manager role with the skills you already have.
- Run scanner tools and sync your LinkedIn profile.
