1. Using Images or Graphics
ATS cannot read images, logos, headshots, or infographics. All that visual flair you added? The ATS sees a blank space. Stick to text-only formatting.
2. Fancy Headers and Footers
Many ATS systems skip header and footer content entirely. If your name and contact info are in a header, the system may not even know who you are.
3. Using Tables or Columns
75% of resumes are rejected by ATS
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Multi-column layouts confuse most ATS parsers. They read left-to-right, top-to-bottom, which means your carefully arranged columns become scrambled text.
4. Non-Standard Section Headings
Using "Where I've Been" instead of "Experience" or "My Superpowers" instead of "Skills" means the ATS can't categorize your information properly.
5. Missing Keywords
If the job description says "project management" and you only wrote "PM," the ATS might not make the connection. Always include both the full term and the abbreviation.
6. Wrong File Format
Some ATS systems struggle with .pages, .odt, or heavily formatted .pdf files. When in doubt, submit a clean .pdf or .docx file.
7. Spelling Errors in Key Terms
A misspelled skill like "Javacript" instead of "JavaScript" means zero keyword match for that critical term.
8. Stuffing Keywords Unnaturally
Writing "marketing marketing marketing" to game the system will get flagged. Keywords need to appear naturally in context.
9. Not Including Dates
ATS systems use dates to calculate years of experience. Missing dates mean the system can't verify you meet "5+ years experience" requirements.
10. Sending a Generic Resume
The biggest mistake of all. Every application needs a tailored resume that matches the specific job description. Use our AI to tailor yours automatically.