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Use a standard font -

As tempting as it may be to use a more unusual font for your resume, particularly if you are applying for a creative role, it is best to stick to a standard font.

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Use a standard font -

It's generally best to go for Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman; more unusual fonts may be more difficult for AI to interpret, and it’s not worth the risk.

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Use structured formatting -

It is also a good idea to pay close attention to the formatting. Try to make sure you have clear headings, bullet points, and always use consistent formatting.

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Use structured formatting -

By ensuring that your resume has a well-structured format, you are helping the AI algorithms understand both the hierarchy and the structure of the information.

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Include keywords -

Next up is incorporating keywords. Read the job description carefully and take some time to work out which words are the most important.

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Include keywords -

Once you have a list of those keywords, be sure to include them in your resume. Many application tracking systems use keywords to identify suitable candidates.

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Avoid images -

Again, you may find it tempting to incorporate graphics or images in your resume, particularly since in some countries it is customary to include a photo.

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Avoid images -

It is generally best to avoid this, however, since graphics and images can be confusing to AI algorithms. Stick to plain text and use standard section titles.

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Keep the language simple -

Do not be tempted to use flowery language; simple words will get you much further if your application is being screened by an AI tracking system.

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Keep the language simple -

Make sure your words are accurate and short. Do not use long sentences or complex industry jargon, since this may be difficult for the algorithm to interpret.

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Add metadata -

It is always a great idea to include metadata in your resume, such as your date of birth, contact information, and location (even if your application is being screened by a human).

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Add metadata -

Including metadata is particularly helpful when it comes to AI readability, since it helps the software categorize and organize your data in the most accurate way.

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Use standard section titles -

When it comes to presenting your other information, it is best to use standard section titles such as Work Experience, Education, and Skills.

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Use standard section titles -

By using these common titles rather than something more niche, you will help the AI system recognize and categorize the different parts of your resume.

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Avoid unusual characters -

Try to avoid using unusual characters, such as symbols or special characters, since these can be confusing for the algorithm in application tracking systems.

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Avoid unusual characters -

Instead, stick to standard characters and avoid any unusual formatting that might be confusing to AI screening tools.

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Avoid acronyms -

It is also a good idea to avoid using acronyms, since there are many industry-specific acronyms that an AI algorithm may not understand.

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Avoid acronyms -

If you really do need to use an acronym or two, be sure to spell them out in full at least once. This will make the AI more likely to understand.

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Use a standard file type -

Finally, be sure to save your resume in plain text format (ASCII) or in a standard file format. These file types are more universally readable by AI.

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How to use AI yourself -

So, there you have some specific tips on how to make your resume readable by AI tracking systems. Now for some ways you can use AI to help you write the thing!

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For optimization -

Firstly, you may like to use an AI tool for resume optimization. There are tools out there that can analyze job descriptions and provide suggestions for how to optimize your resume.

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For optimization -

In general, these tools can recommend keywords, skills, and accomplishments that align with the specific requirements of a job for which you may wish to apply.

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For proofreading -

Another way in which AI can help with your resume is by proofreading it. There are plenty of AI tools available to help you check your resume for spelling and grammatical errors.

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For proofreading -

The same tools can also check that your document follows proper formatting guidelines. This makes your resume look more professional overall.

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For ATS optimization -

There are also AI tools available that can help you optimize your resume for application tracking systems.

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For ATS optimization -

By using one of these tools to ensure your resume matches the criteria set by these systems, you can increase the chance your resume will make it past the first screening stage.

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Caution -

While AI can be a great help when it comes to building a resume, there are certain things to look out for. Firstly, bear in mind that AI is not great for personalization.

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Remember to personalize -

AI resume tools can provide general recommendations, but it is important that you personalize your resume based on your own unique experiences and achievements.

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Beware of unethical practices -

It is also important that you do not use any AI tool to do something unethical, whether on purpose or unintentionally.

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Beware of unethical practices -

For example, it is possible to use AI to inflate qualifications or provide misleading information. Always remember, however, that transparency is paramount when it comes to finding a job.

Sources: (hipCV) (LiveCareer)

See also: Polywork—the ups and downs of working multiple jobs

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