The real reason you're not hearing back
Studies show 75% of resumes are rejected by ATS before reaching a recruiter. The good news: most rejections are caused by fixable issues.
Top 7 reasons resumes get rejected by ATS
- Missing keywords — your resume doesn't match what the ATS searches for
- Complex formatting — tables, graphics that confuse the parser
- Missing sections — no summary, no skills section
- Vague experience — responsibilities without measurable impact
- Generic content — not tailored to the specific job
- Wrong file format — some PDF types are unreadable by ATS
- Inconsistent dates — gaps or unclear chronology
Quick fixes that make a big difference
Fix 1: Add measurable results
Every job description should include at least one number. "Increased revenue by 28%" is infinitely more powerful than "drove business growth."
Fix 2: Match keywords exactly
If the job posting says "project management," your resume should say exactly that — not "project oversight" or "program coordination."
Fix 3: Simplify your format
Use a clean, single-column layout. Avoid text boxes, tables, and graphics. ATS systems often can't read them.
Find out what's wrong with your resume
Get an instant ATS analysis with specific fixes.
Analyze my resume — €4.99Frequently asked questions
Do small companies use ATS?
Today even small companies (20+ employees) commonly use ATS platforms like Greenhouse, Lever, or BambooHR.
Should I apply even if I don't meet all requirements?
Yes — ATS scores are based on keyword matches. If you match 60-70% of requirements, optimize for the keywords you do have.