Applicant tracking systems (ATS) often struggle with multi-column layouts. Complex formatting, such as tables or multiple columns, can disrupt how these systems parse information, potentially leading to misinterpretation or omission of crucial data. A simple, single-column format is generally recommended to ensure all information is correctly processed. For instance, a two-column resume might have skills listed in one column and work experience in another. An ATS may misread this, jumbling information or ignoring one column entirely.
Ensuring compatibility with applicant tracking systems is critical for job seekers in today’s digital hiring landscape. Many organizations use this software to filter and rank applications, and a resume that cannot be properly read by an ATS might be overlooked, regardless of the applicant’s qualifications. The rise of ATS has significantly impacted resume design, shifting the focus from visually appealing layouts to formats optimized for machine readability. This prioritizes plain text and clear, concise formatting.
