If your resume never gets seen, the ATS—not recruiters—may be the reason. Below are the most common ATS mistakes candidates make, plus quick fixes and a way to test your resume score in seconds. Avoid these issues, upload your resume now using our ATS resume checker..
1. Using Complex Layouts (Columns, Tables, Text Boxes)
Why it hurts: Many ATS parsers read left-to-right and break when content is inside columns boxes. Fix: Single column layout, plain text flow, standard margins.
2. Saving Only as Image Heavy PDF
Why it hurts: Image layers and non-selectable text can’t be parsed. Fix: Export a clean .docx (safest) or text-based PDF with selectable text.
3. Fancy Fonts and Icons
Why it hurts: Glyphs and custom icons don’t map to real characters. Fix: Stick to system fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times, Helvetica). Use bullets, not icon fonts.
4. Missing Required Keywords
Why it hurts: ATS scores your match to the job posting; missing skills drop your rank. Fix: Mirror role specific terms (tools, certs, frameworks) in Experience and Skills. Pro move: Paste the job description into the checker and compare. Avoid these issues, upload your resume now.
5. Unclear Section Headings
Why it hurts: ATS looks for standard anchors to segment data. Fix: Use conventional labels: Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications, Projects.
6. Keyword Stuffing or Hidden Text
Why it hurts: Flagged as spam; some ATS penalize or strip hidden content. Fix: Use keywords naturally within bullets that show measurable outcomes.
7. Non-Standard Job Titles
Why it hurts: Creative titles don’t match ATS taxonomies. Fix: Keep your official title, then add a parenthetical clarifier:
Growth Wizard (Growth Marketing Manager)
8. Image Logos, Charts, or Headshots
Why it hurts: Parsers ignore images; content inside graphics is lost. Fix: Convert charts to text bullets; remove headshots and brand logos.
9. Dates & Locations in Odd Formats
Why it hurts: ATS can’t line up chronology if formats vary. Fix: Use consistent formats, e.g., Jan 2023 – May 2025, Miami, FL.
10. Missing Contact & File Metadata
Why it hurts: ATS systems can’t match your resume to your application if your contact details are missing or if your file name looks unprofessional (like “final_version_3.pdf”).
Fix:: Always include your Full Name, Email, Phone, and City/State at the top of your resume. Save the file using a clean, identifiable format, such as: Firstname-Lastname-Resume.docx
A resume formatted so Applicant Tracking Systems can parse content, match keywords, and rank candidates reliably.
Generally 70%+ indicates strong alignment with the job description.
Modern ATS read both, but PDF is safest to avoid formadting errors.
Quick ATS-Friendly Formatting Checklist
- One column, no tables or text boxes
- .docx or text-based PDF
- Standard fonts; real bullet characters
- Clear section headings
- Dates and locations consistent
- Keywords from the job ad reflected in bullets
- No images/icons for core info
- Professional filename
Ready to check your match score? Avoid these issues — upload your resume now with our ATS resume checker.