Resume Writing Guide 2026: How to Create an ATS-Friendly Resume That Gets Interviews

Your resume is your first impression with employers. In 2026, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) screen 98% of resumes before human eyes see them. This guide shows you how to create an ATS-friendly resume that gets interviews.

ATS-Friendly Resume Essentials

1. Choose the Right Format

• Reverse chronological: Most ATS-friendly (recommended)
• Simple layout: No tables, text boxes, or graphics
• Standard fonts: Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman
• File format: .docx or .pdf (check job posting)

2. Optimize Section Headers

Use standard headers ATS systems recognize:

• Professional Summary or Summary
• Work Experience or Professional Experience
• Education
• Skills or Technical Skills
• Certifications (if applicable)

Writing Your Resume Sections

Professional Summary (3-4 lines)

Example: “Digital Marketing Manager with 7+ years driving ROI through data-driven campaigns. Increased conversion rates by 45% at Fortune 500 company. Expert in SEO, PPC, and marketing automation platforms.”

Work Experience

Use this formula for each bullet:

• Action verb + what you did + measurable result
• Example: “Implemented automated email campaigns that generated $2.3M in revenue”
• Example: “Led cross-functional team of 12 to launch product 3 months ahead of schedule”

Skills Section

Include both hard and soft skills from the job description:

• Technical: Python, SQL, Tableau, AWS, Salesforce
• Soft skills: Project Management, Team Leadership, Client Relations
• Certifications: PMP, Google Analytics, AWS Certified

ATS Optimization Tips

Keyword Matching

• Read the job description carefully
• Mirror exact phrases and terminology
• Include both acronyms and full terms (e.g., “SEO (Search Engine Optimization)”)
• Use keywords naturally in context

Common ATS Mistakes to Avoid

• Headers/footers: ATS often cannot read them
• Images or logos: Will be ignored
• Creative fonts: Stick to standard options
• Columns or tables: Can confuse parsing
• Special characters: Use standard bullets (•, -, or no symbol)

Resume Length Guidelines

• Entry-level (0-5 years): 1 page
• Mid-level (5-10 years): 1-2 pages
• Senior-level (10+ years): 2 pages maximum

Before You Submit

ATS Testing Tools

• Jobscan: Free ATS compatibility checker
• Resume Worded: AI-powered feedback
• TopResume: Free resume review

Final Checklist

• ✓ Tailored to specific job description
• ✓ No spelling or grammar errors
• ✓ Contact info is current and professional
• ✓ Measurable achievements in each role
• ✓ Keywords from job posting included
• ✓ File named professionally (FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf)

Cover Letter Tips

Always include a cover letter when possible:

• Keep it to 3-4 short paragraphs
• Address the hiring manager by name if possible
• Explain why you’re interested in this specific role
• Highlight 1-2 key achievements relevant to the position
• End with a call to action

Next Steps

Update your LinkedIn profile to match your resume, optimize for keywords, and start applying. Track applications in a spreadsheet with company name, date applied, contact person, and follow-up dates.