Whether you're applying for your first job or making a strategic career move, your resume is your most powerful tool.
But, nowadays, it's no longer enough for your resume to simply look good, it must also be optimized for technology.
Learning how to optimize resumes for ATS is now a critical step in ensuring your application gets seen by the right people.
This guide offers practical advice from our recruitment team on how to ensure your resume is ATS-friendly and aligned with modern hiring practices.
What are applicant tracking systems (ATS)?
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software platforms used by employers to manage and streamline the recruitment process. These systems help recruiters efficiently sort through large volumes of applications, identify qualified candidates and match them to open roles.
At global organizations like WTW, where thousands of applications may be submitted for a single position, ATS tools are essential. However, they only work in your favor if your resume is properly formatted and optimized to be read by the system. That’s why understanding how to optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems is critical for job seekers today.
Why ATS optimization matters in your job search
The answer is as simple as: if your resume isn’t compatible with ATS standards, it may not reach a recruiter’s desk. Ensuring your resume is structured correctly and includes relevant keywords can significantly improve your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.
According to Amelia Dowty, Recruitment Lead for Europe, “most companies rely on an ATS to store applications before a recruiter will screen for suitability. Candidates can enhance their visibility by tailoring their CVs to closely match the job description. This includes incorporating relevant key skills, presenting information in a clear format and utilizing action verbs to improve the likelihood that their application reaches hiring managers.”
This highlights the importance of ATS optimization: a resume that’s visually appealing but not machine-readable may not be seen by a recruiter.
5 tips from our recruiters to optimize your resume for ATS
Curious about how to stand out when applying to WTW? Understanding how to optimize your resume for ATS is a great place to start.
We asked our recruiters to share their best advice on how to optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems and here’s what they recommend to help your application make it through with confidence.
1. Use a clean and simple format
“Keep the formatting clean and straightforward. Stick to a one-page resume when possible, and avoid tables, images, or overly stylized fonts, these elements do not line up well in an ATS.”
Tara Wozniak, Early Careers Recruiter
2. Mirror keywords from the job description
“When crafting your resume, be sure to include specific keywords that align with the role and industry. This helps the ATS quickly recognize that your profile matches the job requirements. To do this effectively, review the job description carefully and incorporate exact terms, such as listed skills and qualifications, into your resume.”
Rosa Pfister, Associate – Talent Acquisition
3. Label sections with standard headings
Another key element of ATS optimization is how you structure your resume. Using clear, conventional section headings helps ensure your information is accurately parsed by the system.
“Use a clean, straightforward format with standard section headings like Work Experience, Education, and Skills.”
Amelia Dowty, Recruitment Lead for Europe
4. Choose the right file format
“It’s a good idea to save your resume file using the format FirstnameLastname.pdf. Or, if helpful, you can include the year, like FirstnameLastname_2025.pdf. This helps avoid confusion with other files the recruiter may have.”
Maria Marta Buira, Cross-segment Recruiter
“I’ve seen countless cases where candidates attach receipts, diplomas, ID cards and other documents that end up reflecting poorly on them. It’s also important to ensure the attached resume is in PDF format and clearly named.”
Jorge Del Río, Talent Acquisition Specialist
5. Customize your resume to reflect your strengths and the company’s values
“Customize your resume based on your strengths in experience, your achievements, and your unique attributes that aligns with WTW's values and the job description.”
Tania Garcia, Lead Associate Recruiter
Apply today and build your career at WTW
We believe in fair, transparent and inclusive recruitment. By applying the principles of ATS optimization, you’re not just improving your chances of getting noticed, you’re aligning your application with the way modern hiring works.
Whether you're applying for your first role or your next big opportunity, taking the time to tailor your resume shows initiative, professionalism and attention to detail.
Ready to start a career that moves you? Explore jobs open at WTW today.
- Candidate Hints and Tips
- ExperiencedProfessionals
