Returning to work after receiving a cancer diagnosis can feel like a big step. For many people, applying for new jobs can feel like an endless series of rejections, or even worse, getting no response at all. One factor in this could be your resume getting caught in the company’s ATS (Applicant Tracking System), which is an AI tool used to weed out unqualified resumes. It can be daunting but a recent article in Forbes talks about some simple tweaks you can make to get your resume noticed by both ATS and recruiters.
Mirror the Job Title and Key Phrases
Start by mirroring the job title and key phrases from the job posting. ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) are programmed to prioritize exact matches, so using the same language in your resume helps ensure you’re seen. If you’re feeling a little foggy, a word cloud generator can help highlight the most important terms in the job description.
Build a "Core Skills" Snapshot
Then make sure to create a Core Skills section, it is another simple way to make your strengths stand out right away. It’s a quick snapshot of your abilities, helping both ATS systems and recruiters easily see what you bring to the table, even if your focus is off sometimes.
Quantify Every Achievement
When it comes to your accomplishments, quantify them. Numbers are easy to process and help your achievements stand out. For example, “Increased sales by 20%” gives a clear picture of your impact without too much detail to remember.
Pay Attention To The Human Element
Lastly, while ATS optimization is important, don’t forget to make your resume sound like you, not a machine. Your resume should reflect your unique skills and personality, so take care to tell your story authentically. The goal is to pass the digital filters and let recruiters see the real you, your experience, growth, and strengths.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of making it past the digital filters and into the hands of real people, without adding extra stress to the process.
Want more resume/job search help?
- Check out our Balancing Work & Cancer Webinars which have archived sessions on Job Search Tools: Using AI Strategically; First Impressions: Resumes and LinkedIn; Marketing Yourself: Job Search and Beyond; Networking: Unlock New Opportunities
- Register for our upcoming 15th National Conference on Work & Cancer which will feature an expert panel on Using Artificial Intelligence Effectively
- Download our Job Search Toolkit
- Submit your resume to our free Resume Review Service for expert feedback