How applicant tracking systems work (and how to beat them)

An applicant tracking system stores, parses, and searches applications. It extracts your work history and skills into fields, then lets recruiters search and filter. It does not usually "auto-reject" based on a secret score — a recruiter still decides who to call.

Your real goal is parsability and relevance: make sure the software reads your resume correctly, and that the right keywords are present so you show up in searches.

• Use standard headings: Experience, Education, Skills.
• Avoid tables, columns, headers/footers, and images for key content.
• Mirror the exact skills and tools named in the job description (truthfully).
• Spell out acronyms at least once: "Search Engine Optimization (SEO)".
• Submit a PDF unless the application explicitly asks for .docx.

Paste the job description into the NavPeer Resume ATS Checker to see your match score, which keywords you're missing, and one-click fixes. It's the fastest way to catch a silent rejection before it happens.