Resume Tips & Guides

ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) are software that most large employers use to screen resumes before a human ever sees them. The system scans for keywords from the job description, filters by qualifications, and ranks applicants. If your resume doesn't use the right terms or has formatting the ATS can't read (tables, graphics, headers), you get filtered out. Use clean formatting and mirror the language from the job posting.

Read the job posting line by line. Pull out the key skills, qualifications, and responsibilities they mention. Then make sure your resume uses those same terms — naturally, not stuffed in. If they say "project management," don't say "program oversight." If they list a specific tool or certification, make sure it's visible on your resume. One tailored resume beats 50 generic ones.

For your most recent and relevant roles, 4-6 strong bullet points. For older or less relevant positions, 2-3 is fine. Each bullet should start with an action verb and include a measurable result when possible. "Managed a team of 12" is fine. "Managed a team of 12, reducing project delivery time by 30%" is better. Quality over quantity — every bullet should earn its place.

A clean, simple template is fine — just make sure it's ATS-compatible. Avoid templates with tables, columns, text boxes, graphics, or creative layouts. Those look nice to humans but break when parsed by ATS software. Stick with standard fonts (Arial, Calibri), clear section headings, and simple formatting. The content matters far more than the design.

If the application asks for one, absolutely. Even when optional, a cover letter gives you a chance to explain things your resume can't — career changes, gaps, why you want that specific role. Keep it to 3-4 paragraphs: why you're interested, what you bring, and a specific example of relevant experience. Don't repeat your resume — add context to it.