Writing and Formatting a Scannable Resume
What Job Seekers with Disabilities Need to KnowBecause we are living in an information age where technology drives most interactions, resumes sent via E-mail and traditional paper are likely to be scanned for key information by a machine, not a human being. What It Means to have Your Resume scanned by a MachineBecause employers receive more resumes than they can process efficiently, they are switching to text-searching or artificial intelligence software to track resumes. These systems use optical scanners to put resumes into the computer which then searches for skills that match a job description. Optical character recognitionOCRsoftware looks at the image to distinguish every letter and number and creates a text file. Such systems are important because they significantly lessen the time it takes to search for qualified applicants to fill a job. These systems can also help employers by creating a centralized resume pool in companies that have a decentralized human resource function. Why Scannable Resumes are Important to Your SearchIn order to efficiently review resumes, an increasing number of employers are letting computers take the first crack at selecting a first round of applicants for certain jobs. Because computers are programmed to search for certain words, every word in a resume is important in the selection process. Artificial intelligence software "reads" the text and extracts important information such as your name, address, work history, experience and skills. A clear resume allows the scanner to obtain a clean image in order to maximize "hits" (when one of your skills matches the computer search). How to Prepare a Resume that Will Scan to Jobs You are SeekingFollowing are important tips on making your resume "scan-friendly."
How Hiring Managers and Recruiters Use Electronic Applicant Tracking SystemsTypically, hiring personnel set up a search request and tell the computer whether certain qualifications are required or desired. Many resume-scanning systems then rank the candidates they select from the system. Some of the leading systems place a number or percentage next to a candidate's name indicating how many of the manager's requirements are reflected in the resume. As we move into the 21st century, it is important to use technology to find a job. If you push yourself to go the extra mile in your job search, you will find the opportunity you are seeking. This tip sheet was prepared with the help of EDS. EDS participates in the Office of Disability Employment Policy's Business Leadership Network (BLN), a business-led initiative that aims to stimulate best disability employment practices and enhance employment opportunities for job candidates who happen to have disabilities. |