Introduction

In today's competitive job market, having an effective resume is crucial for success. This guide will cover how to create ATS-friendly resume templates specifically tailored for job seekers in the UK. Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are widely used by employers to filter resumes before they even reach human eyes. Understanding how to format and design your resume to be ATS-friendly can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed.

📚 Related: Free ATS Resume Templates That Get Past the Robots

What You'll Need

• A computer or laptop
• Internet access
• Basic knowledge of word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs)
• Approximately 1-2 hours of focused time

📚 Related: How to Create a Professional Resume for Free in 5 Simple Steps

Step 1: Choose the Right Format

Selecting the correct resume format is the first step in creating an ATS-friendly resume.

1. Select a Simple Layout: Opt for a clean, straightforward design without excessive graphics or images. Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
2. Use Standard Headings: Stick to conventional headings such as "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills." ATS software is programmed to recognize these terms.
3. Keep It Chronological: A chronological format is often preferred by ATS. List your work experience and education in reverse chronological order.

Pro Tip: Avoid using tables or columns, as they can confuse ATS and lead to misread information.

📚 Related: Hirective vs. Kickresume: The Best Free Alternative in 2025

Step 2: Optimize Keywords

Incorporating relevant keywords is essential for ATS compatibility.

• Identify Job Descriptions: Look at job postings in your field to identify commonly used keywords related to skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
• Incorporate Keywords Naturally: Use these keywords throughout your resume, particularly in the skills and experience sections.
• Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Ensure that keywords fit naturally into your sentences to maintain readability.

Important Note: Tailoring your resume for each job application can dramatically improve your chances of passing ATS filters.

📚 Related: Hirective vs. Zety: Which Resume Builder is Truly Best for You in 2025?

Step 3: Focus on Content Quality

The content of your resume is just as important as its format.

• Quantify Achievements: Use numbers to showcase your accomplishments (e.g., "Increased sales by 30% in one year").
• Use Action Verbs: Begin bullet points with strong action verbs like "Achieved," "Managed," or "Developed" to demonstrate your contributions effectively.
• Be Concise: Aim for clarity and brevity. Keep your resume to one or two pages, focusing on the most relevant information.

Step 4: Test Your Resume

Before submitting your resume, it's crucial to test its ATS compatibility.

• Use Online Tools: Websites like Jobscan or Resumake can analyze your resume and provide feedback on ATS compatibility.
• Check Formatting: Save your resume in a .docx format, as this is generally the most ATS-friendly file type. Avoid PDF unless specified by the employer.
• Run a Manual Check: Copy and paste your resume into a plain text editor to see how it appears without formatting.

Step 5: Finalize and Save

Once you’ve made all necessary adjustments, it’s time to finalize your resume.

• Proofread: Check for grammatical errors and typos, as these can negatively impact your chances.
• Save in Multiple Formats: Save your resume in both .docx and PDF formats to accommodate different employer preferences.
• Keep a Master Copy: Maintain a master version of your resume that you can easily modify for different job applications.

Why Hirective Simplifies This

• Mobile-First Design: Create and edit your resume anywhere, anytime, right from your phone.
• 2025 Job Market Intelligence: We use real-time data to ensure your resume is optimized for the latest job market trends.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Problem 1: Resume Not Passing ATS
  Solution: Revisit your keywords and formatting. Ensure you are using standard headings and a simple layout.

• Problem 2: Formatting Issues When Uploading
  Solution: Save your resume in .docx format and avoid using tables or complex layouts.

Next Steps

After completing this guide, you should have a polished, ATS-friendly resume ready for job applications. Remember to tailor your resume for each job you apply for and keep it updated as you gain new skills and experiences.

Create Your Resume Now → Visit hirective.com/cv/start to get started free.