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 — €0.99Frequently 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.