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Originally Posted On: https://www.jetcv.com/2024/02/16/how-many-people-get-interviewed-for-a-job-and-how-to-improve-your-chances/

In today’s job market, snagging an interview often feels like climbing a mountain, especially when you hear that only 2% of job seekers make it to the interview stage. This startling statistic highlights the need to really shine among the crowd. One key to achieving this is by making sure your resume is friendly to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which employers use to sift through the avalanche of applications they receive.

The slim chance of getting an interview comes down to a few reasons. Employers are swamped with applications and they use ATS to help manage this flood. These systems filter out candidates based on specific criteria like keywords. As a result, many well-qualified applicants might get overlooked simply because their resumes aren’t optimized for these systems.

An ATS-friendly resume is crafted to get past those initial electronic gatekeepers. It uses the right keywords from the job posting, is formatted clearly, and presents your skills and experience in a straightforward way. This not only boosts your chances of making it through the automated screening but also helps your resume stand out to the hiring managers who review it next.

This is where professional resume writing services come into play. Companies like JetCV.com are pros at creating resumes that tick all the boxes for ATS compatibility, while also making sure your unique strengths and experiences shine through. These experts know the ins and outs of various ATS and can tailor your resume in a way that appeals to both machines and humans.

If you prefer the DIY route, there’s plenty you can do to make your resume more ATS-friendly. Start by dissecting the job description for keywords and phrases to include in your resume. Stick to a simple, clean layout that avoids confusing the ATS with fancy graphics or tables. Be clear and concise in listing your experiences and achievements, particularly those that align with the job you’re applying for.

Don’t forget about other elements of your application, like a well-crafted cover letter that tells your story and shows why you’re a great fit for the role. Personalizing each application to the job and company demonstrates your genuine interest. Also, tapping into your professional network for referrals can give you an edge by getting your resume directly in front of decision-makers.

With a top-notch, ATS-friendly resume in hand—whether crafted with the help of experts like JetCV.com or on your own—you’re setting yourself up to be among the rare 2% who land an interview. It’s about striking the right balance between meeting the technical demands of ATS and showcasing your unique professional brand through careful networking and strategic application.

Tom Norrgrann is the CEO of JetCV, a professional resume writing service. He writes about jobs, resumes and cover letters – and how they make all the difference.