<h1>An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by recruiters to filter resumes before they reach hiring managers.</h1><h2>It scans for keywords, formatting, and structure, automatically rejecting resumes that don’t meet the criteria.</h2>That’s why a well-structured ATS-friendly resume increases your chances of getting shortlisted.<hr><h3>1. Use a Simple and Professional Format</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_02_26_110705002_4a37233e94.png"></figure>ATS software struggles to read resumes with complex designs, images, or fancy fonts. Stick to a clean, professional format that is easy for both the system and recruiters to scan. ✅ Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman ✅ Keep section headings clear (e.g., Work Experience, Skills, Education) ✅ Save your resume in PDF or DOCX format<hr><h3>2. Include Job-Specific Keywords</h3>ATS scans resumes for industry-specific keywords that match the job description. Without them, your resume might get filtered out even if you’re qualified. ✅ Extract relevant keywords from the job posting ✅ Use variations of skills (e.g., "SEO Optimization" vs. "Search Engine Optimization") ✅ Naturally integrate keywords into work experience and skills sections🔗 Related Read: <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/resume-no-experience-malaysia?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_write_a_resume_that_passes_ats_in_malaysia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">What to Put on Your Resume When You Have No Work Experience</a><hr><h3>3. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job Application</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://assets.hiredly.com/cms/image_2025_02_26_112543755_94d62a0273.png"></figure>A generic resume won’t make it past ATS. Customize it for each job by aligning your skills and experience with the employer’s requirements. ✅ Modify your summary and skills to fit the role ✅ Highlight achievements that match the job’s key responsibilities ✅ Use job-relevant action verbs (e.g., "Developed," "Implemented," "Led")<hr><h3>4. Avoid Tables, Graphics, and Columns</h3>Fancy layouts may look good but confuse ATS software, causing your resume to be rejected. ❌ Don’t use tables, graphs, or text boxes ❌ Avoid icons or images ✅ Keep your text left-aligned and in bullet points<hr><h3>5. Use Standard Resume Sections</h3>ATS recognizes specific resume sections, so make sure to include: 📌 Contact Information (Full name, email, phone, LinkedIn) 📌 Professional Summary (2–3 sentences summarizing your skills and experience) 📌 Work Experience (Job title, company name, dates, key achievements) 📌 Education &amp; Certifications 📌 Skills (Hard and soft skills relevant to the job)🔗 Related Read: <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/advice/how-to-write-a-cover-letter-malaysia?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_write_a_resume_that_passes_ats_in_malaysia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How to Write a Job-Winning Cover Letter (With Examples)</a><hr>A well-optimized ATS-friendly resume helps you get past the initial screening and land more interviews. By using the right format, incorporating relevant keywords, and avoiding ATS-unfriendly elements, you can improve your chances of securing a job in Malaysia. If you're looking for job opportunities that match your skills, take the Hiredly <a href="https://hiredly.typeform.com/to/K4idZTDK?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_write_a_resume_that_passes_ats_in_malaysia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Work Personality Test</a> and join the <a href="https://hub.hiredly.com/young-leaders-community?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_write_a_resume_that_passes_ats_in_malaysia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Young Talent Community</a> for career insights, networking, and exclusive job listings. Ready to apply? Check out the latest job openings on <a href="https://my.hiredly.com/jobs?utm_medium=article&amp;utm_source=career_advice&amp;utm_campaign=how_to_write_a_resume_that_passes_ats_in_malaysia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hiredly</a> today!

Struggling to get past applicant tracking systems? Learn how to write an ATS-friendly resume in Malaysia with formatting tips, keyword strategies, and common mistakes to avoid.