ATS Resume Checklist: 10 Things Recruiters Look for in 2025

In 2025, more than 90% of large companies rely on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes before they reach a human recruiter. Failing to meet ATS standards can prevent even highly qualified candidates from getting interviews.

Use this ATS resume checklist to ensure your resume is optimized for both ATS and recruiter eyes. You can enhance and tailor your resume quickly using ResumeTailorApp, including matching cover letters and job-specific keywords.

1. Single-Column Layout

ATS software struggles with multiple columns, tables, or images. Always use a clean, single-column format. Free ATS-friendly templates can help you start off right.

2. Standard Section Headers

Use predictable headings like: CONTACT, PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY, SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, PROJECTS, EDUCATION. Avoid creative variations.

3. Relevant Keywords From Job Description

Match your resume’s skills and experience to the keywords in the job description. ResumeTailorApp automatically identifies and injects these keywords for optimal ATS scoring.

4. Quantified Achievements

Every bullet should include metrics to show impact. Instead of "Managed a team," say "Managed a team of 5 engineers and improved project delivery speed by 25%."

5. Concise Professional Summary

Keep your summary 2–3 lines focusing on problem-solving, leadership, and measurable results. AI-enhancement tools like ResumeTailorApp can rewrite this section in seconds.

6. Skills Section in Comma-Separated Format

List all technical and soft skills in a single line separated by commas. No bullets, tables, or icons.

7. Tailored Experience Section

Each job entry should include problem-solving, impact metrics, and leadership examples. Use ResumeTailorApp to automatically tailor experience for specific job applications.

8. Projects Highlighting Technical & Business Impact

Include personal or professional projects, focusing on results and technical skills. Tools like ResumeTailorApp can enhance project descriptions to maximize recruiter attention.

9. ATS-Friendly File Format (PDF)

Save your resume as a text-based PDF. Avoid images or graphics that can confuse ATS parsing.

10. Matching Cover Letter

After tailoring your resume, create a customized cover letter with ResumeTailorApp Cover Letter Generator. Include the company name, job title, and recruiter-focused achievements.

Bonus Tip: Test Your Resume Before Submitting

Upload your resume to ResumeTailorApp to check for ATS compliance and suggested improvements. This step ensures you maximize your interview invites.

Internal Linking for Further Reading

• Check our free resume templates guide for ATS-ready starting points.
• Learn how AI resumes outperform traditional resumes in this post.
• Read our detailed AI Resume Builder Guide for a complete workflow.
• For resume tailoring, see this step-by-step guide.

Published on: 2025 | Reading time: 6 minutes