Largely due to artificial intelligence (AI), the job search process has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. If you’re sending out resumes and wondering why you’re not hearing back, it may be because your resume never made it past a tracking system.
AI tools, including applicant tracking systems, scan resumes for keywords, skills, and information before passing candidates onto hiring managers. If your resume doesn’t meet the criteria set by the bots, it could be automatically filtered out, regardless of your actual qualifications. The professionals at Staffing Network are familiar with digital gatekeepers and can assist you in standing out in a competitive job market.
Are Bots Seeing Your Resume First?
Hiring managers and recruiters use AI software to manage high volumes of applications efficiently. These systems save time by quickly identifying candidates who appear to match the job description. They do this by searching resumes for specific phrases, analyzing work history, and even evaluating formatting.
While this automation improves efficiency, it adds a layer of complexity for job seekers. This is because you are not just writing your resume for a hiring manager anymore, you’re writing it for a machine that’s trained to look for certain patterns and data points.
For example, one of the biggest mistakes today’s job seekers make is using overly designed resumes. Graphics, images, tables, and columns might look great to a human, but fancy formatting can confuse AI. When the system can’t parse the information correctly, it may miss important details altogether.
To avoid this, stick to a clean, straightforward layout:
- Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Don’t use headers, footers, or embedded images.
- Use simple section designations, such as work experience, education, and skills.
Consistency matters, too. If you list one job with the title first, then company and dates, do the same throughout. Disorganization can lead to misinterpreted information.
Also, be aware of the fact that AI platforms often use keyword matching to screen resumes. These keywords are usually drawn directly from the job description. If your resume doesn’t include the same terms, you might be filtered out, even if you have the right experience.
Will a Human Ever See Your Resume?
Yes, but if there are bots initially assessing your resume, the information will only move on to a person if the bot says so. In these situations, your goal is to pass the AI filter so your resume reaches a recruiter’s desk.
Job hunting in the AI era doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding how bots process your resume and taking the time to format and tailor your application correctly, you can increase your chances of getting noticed.
Are you actively searching for work? To get your qualification in front of a human being, simply keep in mind the possibility of bots seeing your resume first and formatting information accordingly. Staffing Network, a full-service staffing and recruiting firm that specializes in light/skilled industrial, engineering, and operations professionals, can help. Connect with Staffing Network today.
