Zety's ATS optimization tools help U.S. job seekers create resumes that parse correctly in applicant tracking systems on job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn. Start with the Zety resume builder using one of 750+ ATS-friendly templates designed by HR experts. Add job-specific keywords from descriptions, stick to simple formatting, and run the ATS Resume Checker for a score and tips. This workflow targets common ATS like those on hiring platforms, though no tool guarantees passage - always tailor to the job.
What Makes a Resume ATS-Friendly Using Zety
Applicant tracking systems scan resumes for formatting that machines can read, pulling out keywords, dates, and skills. Zety aligns with this through official guidance on its ATS resume blog.
Use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman (10-12 pt). Stick to classic headings: "Work Experience," "Education," "Skills." Avoid tables, images, icons, or fancy graphics, which confuse parsers.
Zety's 750+ templates follow these rules, built by HR experts for clean parsing. The builder prompts simple layouts and suggests incorporating keywords directly from job postings. For example, if a software engineer role lists "Python" and "Agile," weave them into bullet points naturally.
This setup works for U.S. job boards where ATS filter high volumes. Zety emphasizes matching the job description's language without keyword stuffing.
Step-by-Step Workflow to Build an ATS-Optimized Resume in Zety
Follow this sequence in Zety to produce a scannable resume.
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Sign up and start building: Go to the Zety homepage or resume builder. Create a free account to access templates.
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Select an ATS-friendly template: Filter for modern or classic designs. All 750+ options use ATS-safe structures - no columns or visuals that break parsing.
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Enter content strategically:
- Use standard sections: Contact Info, Summary, Work Experience, Education, Skills.
- Pull 5-10 keywords from the job description (e.g., "data analysis," "SQL").
- Write bullets with action verbs: "Led team in SQL database optimization, reducing query time by 30%."
- Keep to one page if possible; quantify achievements.
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Preview and export: Check the live preview for simplicity. The free plan lets you build and export as TXT, ideal for ATS ingestion.
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Run the ATS Resume Checker: Upload your draft to the checker. It scores formatting, keywords, and layout (aim for 80%+), then lists fixes like "Add more job-specific terms."
Repeat steps 3-5 for each application. The builder's AI suggests phrasing, but manual tweaks ensure keyword fit.
Zety ATS Optimization Checklist and Worked Example
Use this checklist after building in Zety to verify readiness. Run the checker last for an objective score.
| Checklist Item | Yes/No | Zety Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Standard headings (e.g., "Work Experience")? | Builder auto-applies. | |
| Simple fonts (Arial, 10-12pt)? | Template default. | |
| No tables, images, icons, or columns? | Avoid creative templates. | |
| Keywords from job description (5-10)? | Copy-paste into skills/bullets. | |
| One-column layout? | All ATS templates enforce. | |
| Contact info at top (phone, email, LinkedIn)? | Builder section. | |
| Dates in MM/YYYY format? | Consistent in experience. | |
| Action verbs start bullets? | AI suggestions help. | |
| File as .docx or TXT? | Free TXT export. | |
| Zety checker score 80%+? | Fix tips provided. |
Worked Example:
Before (ATS-problematic snippet):
John Doe | Software Developer
[Table with icons] Python, Agile
Experience:
FancyCorp - Developer (graphics here)
- Did coding stuff with PythonAfter (Zety-optimized):
John Doe
Software Developer | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | linkedin.com/in/johndoe
Work Experience
FancyCorp, Software Developer, Jan 2022 - Present
- Developed Python scripts for data processing, integrating Agile methodologies to deliver features 20% faster.
- Optimized SQL queries in team environment, matching job requirements for scalable applications.The "After" uses Zety template structure, adds keywords ("Python," "Agile," "SQL"), and scores high in the checker. Test your version against the checklist.
Common ATS Optimization Mistakes and Zety Limits
Job seekers trip on avoidable issues, even with Zety.
- Graphics overload: Tables or icons block parsing. Zety templates skip these, but custom edits can reintroduce them - stick to previews.
- Keyword mismatch: Generic terms like "team player" ignore job specifics. Scan postings first.
- Complex formatting: Two-column layouts fail older ATS. Zety enforces single-column.
- File type issues: TXT from free plan sidesteps glitches that affect other formats.
Zety limits: The free plan builds fully but exports only TXT. The checker covers common ATS patterns but not every system - results vary by platform like Workday. No tool tests your exact employer's setup.
Fixes from Zety's ATS blog: Simplify ruthlessly, recheck scores below 80%.
Next Steps After Zety ATS Optimization
Upload your TXT to job boards.
- Tailor per role: Swap keywords, rerun checker.
- Apply on Indeed, LinkedIn, or company sites - ATS-heavy spots.
- Track in a job search spreadsheet: Date, role, checker score.
- Iterate if no responses: Refresh keywords, test free ATS simulators online.
Revisit Zety for updates; common U.S. ATS evolve, but templates stay foundational.
FAQ
How does Zety's ATS checker work?
It scans for formatting issues, keyword density, and structure, assigning a score with prioritized tips. Upload via ATS Resume Checker.
Can I use Zety resumes on U.S. job boards?
Yes, templates target standard ATS on platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn.
What's the free version limit?
Build unlimited resumes; TXT export only.
Does Zety guarantee ATS passage?
No, but HR-designed templates and checker optimize based on proven practices.