Get Hired Fast: Outsmart the AI Code

In larger companies, resumes and applications are often sorted by AI (artificial intelligence) applicant tracking systems. If your information does not appear to match a job they have open, you will not get an opportunity to talk to anyone.

No one in Human Resources departments looks at resumes directly. Instead, AI filters through hundreds of resumes a minute and selects only those it deems relevant. While this is a time saver for HR, it can spell disaster for many excellent job applicants.

Ways to Get Past the “AI Watchman”

Tailor Your Resume or Application to the Job
Customize each resume to address the specific job opening. Assuming you are qualified, identify which experiences from your past jobs are transferable to the open position. Clearly demonstrate how your background aligns with the job requirements.

Highlight Your Skill Sets
Discuss how your skill sets and experiences in previous positions relate to the job opening. Use keywords from their job posting and where appropriate, integrating them naturally into your resume or application. AI algorithms are designed to recognize these keywords, but avoid overloading your document or attempting to “trick” the system. AI is increasingly sophisticated and can detect insincerity.

Avoid Complex Formatting
Fancy, overly complicated resumes often fail because resume parsing systems struggle to interpret tables, graphics, and other non-standard elements. When parsed, tables tend to scatter your information, rendering it unusable. Avoid using tables, images, or unconventional formats. Stick to clean, simple layouts.

Keep Your Design Simple
Skip introductions and get straight to the content. Use traditional section headings like “Job History” or “Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” Ensure that each skill listed is supported by your work history and is relevant or transferable to the job you’re applying for.

Verify Your Online Presence
Make sure your information on platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, Facebook, and other social media aligns with the persona you’re portraying in your current application. Inconsistencies between your online profiles and your resume can raise red flags.

For many, the process of job searching and applying has dramatically changed. By following these suggestions, you can greatly increase your chances of success.