How to Optimize Your Application for ATS Systems

Published on May 2

How to Optimize Your Application for ATS Systems

In 2025, landing a job starts with beating the Applicant Tracking System (ATS), software used by 75% of employers to filter applications, per a 2024 Jobscan report. For entry-level job seekers applying to restaurant, tech, supply chain, or government roles, an ATS-friendly application is crucial to get noticed. At CareerCyclone.me, our job board is designed with ATS integration, helping you align your resume and application with employer needs. This guide explains how to optimize your application for ATS systems, with practical tips to boost your chances of landing an interview.

What Is an ATS and Why Does It Matter?

An ATS scans resumes and applications for keywords, skills, and qualifications, ranking them for human recruiters. If your application doesn’t match the job description, it may never reach a hiring manager. This is especially true for high-volume roles like restaurant servers or supply chain assistants. CareerCyclone.me’s platform highlights key terms in job listings, making it easier to tailor your application. Let’s break down the steps to create an ATS-friendly application.

Step 1: Use Keywords from the Job Description

ATS systems prioritize applications with exact phrases from the job listing. For example, a restaurant job might list “customer service,” “teamwork,” or “server experience.”

  • How to Do It: Copy the job description from CareerCyclone.me into a text editor. Highlight skills, duties, and qualifications (e.g., “no experience required,” “fast-paced environment”). Include these in your resume and cover letter.
  • Example: If the listing says “entry-level tech support,” use that phrase instead of “tech assistant.”
  • Tip: Sprinkle keywords naturally in your objective, skills, and experience sections.

Step 2: Keep Formatting Simple

Complex formatting confuses ATS systems, causing your application to be rejected.

  • Do’s:
  • Use standard fonts (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman).
  • Use clear section headers (e.g., “Skills,” “Education”).
  • Save as a .docx or .pdf (check job instructions).
  • Don’ts:
  • Avoid headers, footers, tables, or images.
  • Don’t use colored text or unusual fonts.
  • Example: A simple resume for a supply chain job might list: 
Skills: Inventory Management, Teamwork, Logistics Support
Education: High School Diploma, 2024
  • Tip: Test your resume on CareerCyclone.me’s upload tool to ensure it parses correctly.

Step 3: Highlight Relevant Skills

Even without experience, you can showcase skills ATS systems seek. Focus on soft and technical skills from the job listing.

  • Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, adaptability (e.g., “Collaborated on a school project”).
  • Technical Skills: Basic software (e.g., Microsoft Excel for supply chain) or certifications (e.g., ServSafe for restaurants).
  • Example: For a government job, include “attention to detail” if the listing mentions it.
  • Tip: Use CareerCyclone.me’s job filters to find roles matching your skills.

Step 4: Tailor for Each Job

Generic applications rarely pass ATS. Customize your resume and cover letter for each role.

  • How to Do It: Create a master resume with all your skills and experiences. For each job, copy it and adjust keywords, objective, and skills to match the listing.
  • Example: For a restaurant server role, emphasize “customer service” and “multitasking.” For a tech role, highlight “problem-solving” and “tech support.”
  • Time-Saver: CareerCyclone.me’s daily job alerts help you focus on high-fit roles, reducing tailoring time.

Step 5: Include Education and Certifications

Your education is a key asset for ATS. List your most recent degree or diploma clearly.

  • Example: 
High School Diploma, Lincoln High School, 2024
Relevant Coursework: Business Communication, Computer Skills
  • Add certifications like:
  • Google IT Support Certificate (free, tech jobs).
  • OSHA Safety Basics (supply chain).
  • ServSafe Food Handler (restaurants).
  • Tip: Check CareerCyclone.me’s job listings for preferred certifications.

Step 6: Proofread and Test

Errors or missing keywords can sink your application. Use Grammarly (free) to catch typos. Double-check that all job-specific terms are included. Before submitting, upload your resume to CareerCyclone.me to ensure it’s readable by our ATS-integrated system.

Common ATS Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overloading Keywords: Don’t stuff keywords unnaturally; it looks spammy.
  • Ignoring Instructions: Some jobs require specific formats (e.g., PDF). Follow CareerCyclone.me’s guidelines.
  • Using Old Resumes: Update your resume for 2025 trends (e.g., remote work skills).

An ATS-friendly application is your ticket to getting noticed by employers in 2025. By using keywords, simple formatting, and tailored content, you’ll pass the ATS and land interviews for restaurant, tech, or government roles. CareerCyclone.me’s ATS-integrated job board makes it easy to align your application with employer needs. Start optimizing today, and take the first step toward your dream job!

Submit ATS-friendly applications on CareerCyclone.me. Browse jobs and use our map search to find opportunities near you. Sign up for daily alerts now!