Make Your InDesign Resume ATS-Friendly to Boost Job Applications

1. Use Standard Headings and Sections

Use common headers like "Summary," "Work Experience," "Education," and "Skills." This helps the ATS understand your resume.

• Summary: Describe yourself in two to three sentences.
• Work Experience: List jobs in reverse order. Use standard titles.
• Education: Include your highest degree, school, and graduation year.
• Skills: List key skills with bullet points.

2. One-Column Layout

Switch to a single column format. It's simpler and clearer for ATS to read.

3. Use Readable Fonts

Choose fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Stay away from decorative fonts.

4. Add Action Verbs

Use verbs like “improved,” “developed,” “designed,” or “led.” This makes your bullet points stand out.

5. Highlight Your Skills

Make a skills section with keywords from the job description. If they need “Java,” “Python,” or “UI/UX Design,” include those words.

6. Consistent Formatting

Keep font sizes (10-12 points) and styles the same. Bold your headings to make them pop.

7. Check Color Contrast

Use dark text on a light background. This makes your resume easier to read for everyone, including ATS.

8. Save As PDF with Tags

When exporting your InDesign document:

• Go to File > Export and choose Adobe PDF (Print).
• Check "Export Tagged PDF" in the options.

9. Test Your Resume

Before you send your resume, use an ATS simulator online. This shows how ATS reads your resume and helps you fix any issues.

Example Outline and Tagging

Here's a guideline for your resume structure:

• H1: Your Name
• H2: Contact Information
• H2: Summary
• H2: Work Experience
• H3: Job Title
• P: Job Description
• H2: Education
• H2: Skills

Layer Order and Reading Sequence

Ensure the bottom layer in InDesign is read first. Check the layer order and arrange from the bottom up.

Adding Alt Text for Images

For icons or images:

• Decorative Images: Tag as artifacts.
• Functional Icons: Add alt text.

To add alt text:

• Right-click on the image, choose Object Export Options.
• Go to the Alt Text tab, enter a description.

Proofread

Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes. ATS can flag errors.

Use Simple File Names

Save your resume as JohnDoe_Resume.pdf. Simple names are easier to recognize.

Final Checklist

• Use standard headers and a one-column layout.
• Readable fonts and clear section headings.
• Action verbs in bullet points.
• Consistent formatting and good color contrast.
• Export with tags and test in an ATS simulator.
• Add alt text where needed and proofread.