Top 10 Resume Mistakes That Get You Rejected by ATS
In a hiring landscape where the first gatekeeper is often software, not a recruiter, a resume’s success hinges on its compatibility with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These platforms scan, parse, and rank resumes long before a human ever sees them.
A well-qualified candidate can be screened out within seconds for something as simple as an unconventional file format or a missing keyword. Avoiding these pitfalls is no longer optional — it’s essential.
Below are the ten most common resume mistakes that cause otherwise strong applications to be filtered out, along with practical strategies to correct them.
1. Using Complex Templates or Graphic Elements
Visually striking templates, icons, charts, or multi-column layouts may look appealing to humans but can confuse ATS software. When parsing fails, critical information is often misread or skipped entirely.
How to fix it: Use a clean, text-based layout with standard fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Avoid tables, graphics, and text boxes.
2. Uploading in an Unsupported File Format
Not all ATS platforms parse PDFs or image-based resumes accurately. If the system cannot extract the text, your application may be automatically rejected.
How to fix it: Unless the job description specifies otherwise, use a .doc or .docx file, which is universally compatible with most systems.
3. Missing Relevant Keywords
ATS platforms rely heavily on keyword matching to assess fit. If your resume lacks the terminology used in the job description, it may not rank high enough to reach a recruiter.
How to fix it: Incorporate relevant keywords—particularly job titles, technical skills, and certifications—naturally throughout your resume.
4. Overusing Generic Buzzwords
Phrases such as “team player” or “hard worker” do little to demonstrate capability to either ATS or human reviewers. These vague terms are rarely part of the keyword criteria.
How to fix it: Replace buzzwords with specific skills and measurable achievements. For example, “Led a cross-functional team of eight” conveys far more than “team player.”
5. Using Non-Standard Job Titles
Internal titles that differ from industry norms can make it difficult for ATS software to categorize your experience correctly.
How to fix it: Include your official title, followed by a standard industry equivalent in brackets. For example: Associate II (Senior Marketing Manager).
6. Skipping Core Resume Sections
Sections such as Work Experience, Education, and Contact Information are essential for ATS parsing. Omitting them or using unconventional headings can lead to incomplete or inaccurate scans.
How to fix it: Stick to widely recognized section titles and ensure each section is complete and well-structured.
7. Placing Key Information in Headers or Footers
Many ATS platforms ignore text placed in document headers or footers. Critical information like your contact details may never be read.
How to fix it: Place your name, phone number, email address, and LinkedIn URL in the main body at the top of the resume.
8. Keyword Stuffing
Repeating keywords excessively can backfire. Some ATS systems penalize overuse, and human reviewers can easily spot unnatural patterns.
How to fix it: Use keywords strategically and in context. Demonstrate how you applied those skills through clear examples rather than repetition.
9. Typos and Inconsistent Formatting
Spelling errors can cause keywords to be missed, and inconsistent formatting can break parsing logic. Both reduce your chances of making it through automated filters.
How to fix it: Run a thorough spell check and use an ATS resume scanner before submitting. Keep formatting consistent—align dates, use uniform bullet styles, and maintain clear spacing.
10. Omitting Measurable Impact
Resumes that list responsibilities without demonstrating outcomes tend to rank lower in ATS scoring models and fail to engage recruiters.
How to fix it: Use the STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to highlight specific achievements. Quantify results wherever possible—for example, “Increased organic traffic by 40%” rather than “Responsible for website growth.”
A Final Check Before You Apply
Before submitting your resume, upload it to a reputable ATS scanning tool. This step can reveal formatting issues, missing keywords, and ranking problems, allowing you to make adjustments proactively.