How to Write a Resume That Passes the Artificial Intelligence Test

Creating a resume that can breeze through AI screening is a bit like mastering the art of making first impressions. Not on a person. But on a machine. Companies increasingly use AI to sift through applications. Meaning your resume needs to make it past this digital gatekeeper before it ever lands on a human's desk. In this guide, we'll cover exactly how to tailor your resume to stand out in the eyes of both AI and the hiring manager behind it.

Hitting the Right Keywords

Think of keywords as the secret handshake your resume needs to get noticed. AI systems are programmed to look for specific words and phrases that match the job description. So, how do you figure out which ones to include?

• Start by scanning the job listing. If the role requires "project management," make sure those words are in your resume.
• Use variations of the keyword. For example, if "project management" is key, also consider "managed projects" or "project leader."
• Include industry-specific terms that relate to your experience.

Here's a little insider tip: Spell can help you identify and incorporate the right keywords by analyzing the job description and comparing it to your resume draft. This makes it easier to align your language with what the AI is looking for.

Keep It Simple and Structured

AI software isn't as forgiving as a human when it comes to fancy formatting. So, it's best to keep your resume clean and straightforward.

• Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri. Avoid decorative fonts that might confuse the system.
• Use clear headings for each section, like "Experience," "Education," and "Skills."
• Bulleted lists are your friend. They make your accomplishments easy for AI to scan.

For instance, under your experience section, you could write:

- Managed a team of 10 in project development and execution
- Increased team efficiency by 20% through strategic planning
- Developed client presentations that resulted in a 30% increase in sales

Quantify Your Achievements

Numbers speak louder than words. Especially to AI. Quantifying your achievements gives clear evidence of your capabilities.

• Instead of saying "improved sales," say "increased sales by 20% in Q1."
• Don't just say "led a team." Specify "managed a team of 5 to complete projects ahead of schedule."

Quantifying your achievements not only helps AI recognize your value. But also paints a vivid picture for human reviewers.

Use Action-Oriented Language

Start each bullet point with an action verb to make your responsibilities and achievements pop. Words like "implemented," "developed," and "streamlined" convey a sense of initiative and accomplishment.

Here's how you might describe a past role:

- Implemented a new workflow system that improved team productivity by 25%
- Developed a training program for new hires, reducing onboarding time by 50%
- Streamlined communication processes between departments to enhance collaboration

Tailor Each Application

One-size-fits-all doesn't work for resumes. Customize each resume to match the specific job you're applying for.

• Focus on the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the position.
• Adjust your keywords to mirror those found in the job description.

Using Spell, you can quickly adapt your resume to fit different roles. It lets you edit your documents using natural language. Ensuring you always have a tailored version ready to go.

Avoid Graphics and Images

While a picture might be worth a thousand words, it's not worth much to AI. Graphics and images can confuse AI systems. So it's best to leave them out.

• Stick to text-based content to ensure your resume is easily readable by AI.
• Use plain text for your contact information instead of embedding it in a header or footer.

If you're tempted to include a photo or a fancy design, save it for your portfolio or LinkedIn profile, where it will be better appreciated.

Include Relevant Skills

Skills sections are a goldmine for keywords. But don't just list every skill under the sun. Focus on those that are directly applicable to the job.

• Highlight both hard skills (like coding or data analysis) and soft skills (like teamwork or communication).
• Make sure the skills you list are reflected in your work experience.

For a clear, concise skills section, consider this format:

Skills:
- Project Management
- Data Analysis
- Team Leadership
- Effective Communication

Check for Typos and Grammar

It might sound obvious, but typos and grammar errors can cost you. AI systems may flag resumes with errors, and they certainly don't leave a good impression on human reviewers.

• Proofread your resume multiple times.
• Use tools like spell check, but don't rely on them entirely.

Once you've gone over it yourself, consider using Spell to give your resume a final polish. Its AI capabilities can help refine your language and catch any lingering mistakes.

Test Your Resume

Before sending your resume out into the world, it's worth testing it to see how it holds up against AI. There are resume-checking tools available that simulate how AI systems parse your resume.

• Upload your resume to these tools to ensure it's properly formatted and keyword-rich.
• Make adjustments based on the feedback you receive.

Testing your resume can give you the confidence that it's ready to make it past the AI and into the hands of hiring managers.

Final Thoughts

Crafting a resume that gets through AI screening is all about strategy. By focusing on keywords, clarity, and customization, you can create a resume that stands out for both AI and human reviewers. And if you need a little help along the way, Spell can assist in making the process faster and more efficient, from drafting to final edits. Good luck, and happy job hunting!