In today’s job market, most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline the hiring process. While these systems help employers filter candidates efficiently, they can also create barriers for job seekers, especially for service members transitioning into civilian careers. Understanding how ATS works and how to tailor your resume accordingly can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview.
What Is an ATS and Why Does It Matter?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a type of software used by employers to automate and manage the hiring process. When a job seeker submits an application, the ATS scans their resume, analyzing content based on keywords, formatting, and job-related criteria. The system then ranks applicants according to how well their qualifications align with the job posting.
Many large and mid-sized companies rely on ATS to handle the high volume of applications they receive. Instead of a recruiter manually reviewing every submission, the ATS acts as a gatekeeper, filtering out candidates who do not meet predefined criteria. While this helps employers streamline hiring, it can also mean that well-qualified candidates get overlooked if their resumes are not optimized for the system.
According to Jobscan, ATS software manages the hiring process by:
- Collecting and sorting resumes: ATS systems store and organize thousands of applications, making it easier for hiring managers to track candidates.
- Filtering applications based on keywords and qualifications: Employers use ATS to search resumes for specific keywords, skills, and job titles that match the job description.
- Managing communication and scheduling: Beyond sorting resumes, ATS can also schedule interviews and send automated emails to candidates.
How WFWMS Helps Service Members Navigate ATS Challenges
For service members, the challenge is ensuring that their military experience translates well into civilian job descriptions so that the ATS recognizes their qualifications. That’s where Work for Warriors MS (WFWMS) comes in.
At Work for Warriors MS, we understand the difficulties service members face when entering the civilian workforce. Our Employment Coordinators provide personalized guidance on optimizing resumes to ensure they pass through ATS filters and reach hiring managers.
Here’s how we help:
Keyword Optimization
Many ATS platforms scan for keywords directly from job descriptions. We assist service members in identifying industry-specific terms that align with their military experience and ensure their resumes reflect those keywords. This helps increase your resume’s visibility in ATS rankings
Resume Formatting
Improper formatting can cause an ATS to misread or reject a resume. We make sure resumes are structured correctly, using ATS-friendly templates that improve readability and compatibility with automated systems.
Translating Military Experience
Many service members struggle to convert their military roles into civilian job descriptions. Our team works with you to translate military skills and accomplishments into language that resonates with civilian recruiters and hiring managers.
Application Strategy
Beyond just the resume, we guide job seekers through the entire application process, helping them tailor each submission to different job postings for maximum impact and better alignment with ATS requirements.
Direct Connections with Hiring Managers
This is where Work for Warriors MS offers a distinct advantage. Our Employment Coordinators have built strong, trusted relationships with hiring managers at companies across Mississippi. These connections often allow us to:
- Bypass the ATS altogether by directly presenting your resume to the right people
- Personally advocate for you as a candidate, explaining your qualifications and experience in ways an automated system can’t
- Provide insider knowledge about what specific employers are looking for, so you can tailor your resume and interview preparation accordingly
Our close partnerships with employers mean we can help ensure your resume isn’t just another submission in a crowded system—it’s a direct connection to an opportunity.
Tips for Optimizing Your Resume for an ATS
If you’re a service member applying for jobs, keep these best practices in mind:
- Use Standard Fonts & Formats: Stick to simple, professional fonts like Arial or Times New Roman and save your resume as a Word document or PDF.
- Avoid Graphics & Complex Designs: ATS systems have trouble reading tables, columns, and images.
- Incorporate Job-Specific Keywords: Review job descriptions and integrate relevant keywords naturally into your resume.
- List Civilian Job Titles: Instead of using military jargon, find equivalent civilian job titles to improve ATS recognition.
- Keep It Concise: Avoid long paragraphs, use bullet points for clarity and easy scanning.
Make the System Work for You
An ATS can either be a roadblock or a tool to help you get noticed—depending on how well you optimize your resume. At Work for Warriors MS, we’re here to ensure your skills and experience don’t get lost in the system. Whether you need help translating your military background into civilian-friendly language or refining your resume to meet ATS standards, our team is ready to assist.
The job search process can be tough, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Let Work for Warriors MS help you navigate the hiring process and connect you with career opportunities that match your expertise.
Need resume assistance? Contact us today and take the next step in your career.
