ATS Resume Mistakes: Examples and Solutions for a Flawless Application Process
Are your resumes getting rejected before they’re even seen? The problem might not be your skills, but your formatting.
Most companies today use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which automatically screen resumes before a recruiter ever reads them.
In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn:
- The most common ATS resume mistakes
- How to fix them with ATS-friendly formatting
- How to use the right keywords
- How to make your resume stand out to both bots and humans
What Is an ATS Resume?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) scans resumes and ranks candidates based on how well their resumes match the job description. If your resume isn’t formatted correctly or lacks the right keywords, it might be filtered out, no matter how qualified you are.
Tip: Most resumes never reach a human recruiter. Make sure yours is one of the few that do.
Common ATS Resume Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
1. Using Fancy Formatting or Graphics
- Problem: Icons, tables, logos, and columns confuse ATS scanners.
- Fix: Stick to simple, one-column layouts with standard fonts (Arial, Calibri).
2. Non-Standard Section Headings
- Problem: Creative titles like “Career Journey” or “Where I’ve Worked” can’t be interpreted by ATS.
- Fix: Use standard headings like Work Experience, Education, and Skills.
3. Incorrect Date Formats
- Problem: ATS may skip over entries with inconsistent formats like “Jan ‘23 – Now.”
- Fix: Use MM/YYYY – MM/YYYY (e.g., 01/2023 – 08/2025).
4. Keyword Stuffing
- Problem: Overloading your resume with repetitive keywords lowers readability.
- Fix: Integrate keywords naturally from the job listing in contextually relevant ways.
5. Missing Keywords Altogether
- Problem: Failing to mention key tools or skills listed in the job post.
- Fix: Use an ATS keyword checker to extract and include essential terms.
6. Submitting the Wrong File Type
- Problem: Certain PDFs and image-based resumes are unreadable to ATS systems.
- Fix: Save your resume in .DOCX format (Word) unless the job post specifies otherwise.
7. Using Technical Jargon or Internal Acronyms
- Problem: Overuse of complex terminology that the system can’t recognize.
- Fix: Use clear, standardized industry language that matches the job description.
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Formatting Errors
How to Make Your Resume ATS-Friendly
Step 1: Use a Clean, Compatible Format
- One-column layout
- Standard fonts
- No graphics or headers/footers
Step 2: Tailor Every Resume
- Match your resume to each job description
- Adjust the summary and skills sections
- Highlight achievements with measurable results
Want help tailoring your resume? Click here
Step 3: Use Job-Specific Keywords
- Extract terms from job postings
- Include tools, software, certifications, and soft skills
- Use keyword variations (e.g., "CRM tools" + "Salesforce")
Step 4: Test Before Sending
- Use free ATS resume scanners like Jobscan, Resumeworded, or SkillSyncer.
Step 5: Proofread Everything
- Eliminate typos
- Double-check dates and headings
- Confirm contact info and file type
Real Example: Before vs. After ATS Optimization
Before (Rejected by ATS):
Work History
Tech Wizard – Jan ‘22–Now
Did data stuff and led a team
After (ATS-Friendly):
Work Experience
Data Analyst | ABC Solutions | 01/2022 – 08/2025
- Managed a team of 5 analysts, automating reporting using Python, cutting processing time by 30%
Want your resume transformed like this?
FAQs
Because it contains ATS-unfriendly elements like graphics, unusual formats, or missing keywords.
A resume that uses clear, one-column layout, standard fonts, and includes relevant keywords in .DOCX format.
Use an ATS resume template, match keywords from the job description, and test your resume using scanning tools.
Sometimes—but many ATS systems fail to read image-based PDFs. To be safe, use .DOCX unless stated otherwise.
Follow formatting best practices—or let a professional do it for you.
>>Fix My Resume with JobTestPrep >>
About AI Recruitment
AI Recruitment, powered by 30+ years of testing expertise from JobTestPrep, leverages AI and psychology to streamline hiring. Our platform helps job seekers and recruiters alike with intelligent tools that reduce bias, save time, and improve decision-making.
Want your resume seen by recruiters—not rejected by bots?
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- Pass ATS filters
- Impress recruiters
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