Two Column Ats Resume Template

Crafting a resume that not only looks great but also gets past the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is crucial in today's competitive job market. Many talented candidates are overlooked simply because their resume format isn't ATS-friendly. That's why we've created this two-column ATS resume template, designed to help you showcase your skills and experience in a way that both humans and machines can easily understand.

This template offers a clean and professional layout that prioritizes clarity and scannability. The two-column design allows you to efficiently organize information, highlighting your key achievements and qualifications. By using a format optimized for ATS software, you increase your chances of your resume being properly parsed and ranked, ensuring it reaches the eyes of the hiring manager.

Ready to make your resume work harder for you? Download our two-column ATS resume template and start crafting a resume that stands out for all the right reasons. It's time to take control of your job search and ensure your qualifications get the recognition they deserve.

What is a two-column ATS resume template?

A two-column ATS resume template is a resume format that divides the content into two vertical columns. Typically, one column is narrower and dedicated to elements like contact information, skills, and possibly a brief summary. The wider column is reserved for more detailed information such as work experience, education, and projects. The primary aim of this template style is to present information in a visually organized manner, making it easy for recruiters to scan.

However, the term "ATS" (Applicant Tracking System) introduces a crucial consideration. ATS are software systems used by employers to manage the recruitment process, including screening resumes. While two-column templates can be aesthetically pleasing, many older ATS struggle to parse the information correctly from such layouts. The ATS might read the columns as continuous text or misinterpret the structure, leading to important details being missed. Therefore, the challenge lies in creating a two-column resume that is both visually appealing and ATS-friendly.

To ensure compatibility with ATS, a two-column resume template should be designed with simplicity and clarity in mind. Avoid using excessive graphics, tables, or unusual formatting elements. Instead, prioritize clear headings, bullet points, and a consistent structure. Using common, easily recognizable fonts is also crucial. Furthermore, always test your resume by uploading it to an ATS simulator to check how the system interprets the information. This allows you to identify and correct any parsing errors before submitting it to a potential employer.

In essence, a two-column ATS resume template attempts to balance visual appeal with machine readability. It's a modern approach to resume design that, when implemented carefully, can highlight your qualifications effectively while remaining accessible to the automated systems used by many employers. It’s critical to choose a template specifically designed for ATS compatibility, rather than simply adopting a visually appealing but potentially problematic design.

Advantages of using a two-column format

The two-column resume format offers several advantages, particularly when aiming for a modern, visually appealing, and space-efficient document. This layout allows for a clear separation of information, making it easier for recruiters and hiring managers to quickly scan and identify key qualifications. By strategically placing sections like skills, contact information, and education in one column, you can dedicate the other, often larger, column to experience and accomplishments, highlighting your career progression and impact.

One of the most significant benefits is improved readability. The division of content into two distinct columns prevents the resume from appearing cluttered or overwhelming, particularly when dealing with extensive work experience or a diverse skillset. This enhanced organization improves the reader's ability to process information and retain crucial details about your background. A well-designed two-column resume can make a strong first impression, showcasing professionalism and attention to detail.

Furthermore, the two-column format is highly adaptable to various skillsets and career levels. For example, skills-based resumes can benefit from dedicating an entire column to showcasing proficiencies, while experienced professionals can leverage the format to present a comprehensive and detailed career history. The format is also suitable for individuals with technical backgrounds, allowing for the strategic placement of technical skills and projects alongside relevant work experience. It's important, however, to select a template optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to ensure the resume is properly parsed.

From a visual perspective, a two-column resume often looks more contemporary and engaging than a traditional single-column design. This aesthetic advantage can help you stand out from other candidates, particularly in competitive industries. However, it’s crucial to ensure the template chosen is ATS-compatible. Be mindful of using excessive graphics, columns that are too narrow, or overly complex formatting, as these can hinder the parsing process and negatively impact your application.

In conclusion, a well-executed two-column resume can significantly enhance readability, highlight key skills and experience, and create a modern and professional impression. While attractive, prioritize ATS compatibility by choosing templates designed with these systems in mind and avoiding unnecessary design elements that could prevent your resume from being properly scanned and considered.

Key sections to include

A well-structured resume is crucial, especially when using a two-column ATS resume template. The key is to present your information in a clear, concise, and easily scannable manner for both humans and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Prioritize sections that highlight your most relevant skills and experience, and use keywords strategically throughout the document.

Here are the essential sections to include in your two-column ATS resume template:

• Contact Information: Full name, professional email address, phone number, location (city, state), and links to your LinkedIn profile and online portfolio (if applicable).
• Professional Summary/Objective: A brief (2-4 sentence) overview of your skills, experience, and career goals. Tailor this to each job application. For experienced professionals, a summary is generally preferred. For entry-level candidates or those changing careers, an objective might be more appropriate.
• Skills: A dedicated section listing your hard and soft skills relevant to the target role. Use keywords from the job description and industry terminology. Consider breaking this down into categories (e.g., technical skills, communication skills, leadership skills).
• Experience: A detailed account of your work history, presented in reverse chronological order. For each role, include your job title, company name, dates of employment, and a bulleted list of your responsibilities and accomplishments. Quantify your achievements whenever possible using metrics and data. Focus on accomplishments rather than just listing duties.
• Education: Information about your degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework. Include the institution name, degree earned, graduation date (or expected graduation date), and any honors or awards.

Beyond these core sections, you may also want to include optional sections such as:

• Projects: Showcase personal or academic projects that demonstrate your skills and experience. Include a brief description of the project, your role, and the outcome.
• Awards and Recognition: List any awards, honors, or recognitions you have received.
• Volunteer Experience: Highlight any volunteer work that demonstrates your skills or commitment to a cause.
• Languages: List any languages you speak fluently, along with your proficiency level.

Remember to optimize your resume for the specific job you're applying for by carefully reviewing the job description and incorporating relevant keywords throughout your resume. A well-organized and keyword-rich resume will significantly improve your chances of passing the ATS screening process and landing an interview.

Formatting tips for ATS compatibility

While two-column resume templates can offer a visually appealing layout, ensuring they are ATS (Applicant Tracking System) compatible is crucial for getting your resume past the initial screening stage. ATS software is designed to parse information from resumes in a structured format, and complex formatting can sometimes hinder this process. Sticking to simple, standard fonts and avoiding excessive use of graphics or tables will significantly improve your resume's readability for ATS.

Prioritize clear and concise language and a logical structure. Use common section headings such as "Experience," "Education," and "Skills." Be consistent with your date formats (e.g., MM/YYYY or Month YYYY) and avoid using text boxes or images to embed text. These elements are often ignored or misinterpreted by ATS systems, leading to critical information being missed.

Pay close attention to keyword optimization. ATS systems scan resumes for specific keywords related to the job description. Carefully analyze the job posting and incorporate relevant skills and qualifications throughout your resume, particularly in the skills section and within your experience descriptions. Use the exact wording from the job posting where appropriate, but ensure the phrasing remains natural and contextually relevant.

Avoid using special characters or unusual symbols, as these can sometimes cause parsing errors. Stick to standard punctuation and formatting elements. When choosing fonts, opt for classic, easily readable fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Font sizes should be between 10 and 12 points for body text to ensure readability for both humans and machines.

Finally, save your resume as a PDF file to preserve the formatting. While some ATS systems can handle other file formats like .doc or .docx, PDF is generally the most reliable option. Before submitting your resume, consider running it through an online ATS checker to identify any potential formatting issues and ensure it's properly parsed.

Optimizing keywords for job applications

Keywords are the foundation of a successful ATS (Applicant Tracking System) resume. These systems scan your resume for terms that match the job description, and if you don't include enough relevant keywords, your application might never reach a human recruiter. Therefore, strategic keyword optimization is crucial when using a two-column ATS resume template, ensuring your qualifications are properly recognized.

The first step is thorough research. Carefully analyze the job descriptions of roles you're targeting. Identify the key skills, responsibilities, software, and industry jargon frequently mentioned. Look beyond the obvious. Consider variations in phrasing (e.g., "project manager" vs. "program manager"), acronyms, and related skills. Don't just copy and paste the job description; that's considered keyword stuffing and can be detrimental. Instead, weave these keywords naturally into your resume's various sections, including your summary, skills section, and experience descriptions.

In your two-column ATS resume template, pay particular attention to the skills section. This area provides an excellent opportunity to showcase your keyword prowess. Create a dedicated "Key Skills" section and include a list of hard and soft skills that align with the target roles. Group related skills together for readability. Furthermore, use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and quantify your results whenever possible. For example, instead of simply stating "Project Management," you could write, "Managed cross-functional projects, resulting in a 15% reduction in project completion time." This adds context and demonstrates your abilities beyond a mere keyword listing.

Remember to use a variety of keywords throughout your resume, but prioritize relevance and accuracy. Avoid using overly technical or specialized jargon if the job description doesn't warrant it. Similarly, refrain from including keywords that are not truly representative of your skillset. Falsely claiming expertise can backfire during the interview process. Regularly review and update your keyword list based on the latest industry trends and job postings. Tailoring your resume to each specific application is key to maximizing your chances of passing through the ATS and landing an interview.

Resume Example: two column ats resume template

Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to two column ats resume template. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.

Choosing the right font and layout

The font and layout of a two-column ATS resume template are crucial for readability and ATS compatibility. When selecting a font, opt for clean, sans-serif fonts such as Arial, Helvetica, or Calibri. These fonts are generally well-recognized by ATS systems and easy to read both on screen and in print. Avoid overly stylized or decorative fonts, as they can cause parsing errors and hinder readability.

Layout considerations are equally important. The two-column format allows you to present information concisely, dedicating one column to skills, certifications, or a summary, while the other focuses on work experience and education. Ensure there's sufficient white space to prevent the resume from appearing cluttered. Use clear headings and subheadings to guide the ATS and human reader through your qualifications. Consistency in formatting (e.g., font size, bullet points, date formats) is key for a polished and professional look.

For an ATS-friendly layout, minimize the use of tables, images, and complex formatting. While two-column templates are generally ATS-compatible, it's best to test your final resume using an online ATS checker. Focus on using keywords naturally within your job descriptions and skills sections. This will help the ATS identify your qualifications and match them with relevant job requirements. Remember, the goal is to create a resume that is both visually appealing to a human recruiter and easily processed by an ATS.

Resume Example: two column ats resume template

Below is a simple and clean resume example tailored to two column ats resume template. Replace placeholder details with your own achievements.

Troubleshooting common ATS issues

Two-column resume templates, while visually appealing, can sometimes present challenges for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These systems are designed to parse information in a linear, top-to-bottom fashion. The structure of a two-column resume can confuse the parser, leading to misinterpretation or omission of crucial data. This section addresses common issues and provides solutions to ensure your two-column resume is ATS-friendly.

One frequent problem is incorrect section ordering. The ATS might read content from both columns simultaneously or interpret them in the wrong sequence, resulting in skills appearing under work experience or education details intermingling with your professional summary. To mitigate this, carefully consider the order of sections and prioritize critical information (like work experience and skills) in the left-hand column. Also, simplify formatting. Avoid complex tables, text boxes, or graphics that might impede the parsing process. Use clear headings and subheadings to define each section.

Another issue stems from the reliance on visual elements. While lines and shading might enhance readability for humans, they can be problematic for ATS software. These elements can disrupt the text flow, leading to parsing errors. Minimize the use of such visual aids. Stick to basic formatting like bolding, underlining (used sparingly), and bullet points. Be cautious with using icons or symbols, as these might not be recognized or translated correctly by the ATS. Always test your resume using an ATS scanner (many free and paid options are available online) before submitting it to ensure it is parsed accurately. Testing allows you to identify and rectify any potential problems, improving your chances of getting your resume through the initial screening process.

FAQs

The two-column ATS resume template is designed to present your information in a structured format that is easily parsed by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). This layout helps organize your resume, allowing you to highlight key skills and experiences concisely. Many job seekers find it effective for showcasing their qualifications while maintaining ATS compatibility. Using a template ensures consistent formatting across different sections, making it easier for both ATS and human recruiters to scan your resume efficiently.

A common concern is whether a two-column layout is truly ATS-friendly. The key is to use a clean and simple structure. Avoid complex tables or graphics that might confuse the parsing software. Ensure that all text is selectable and that the information flows logically. Prioritize keywords relevant to the job description, embedding them naturally within your work experience, skills, and summary sections. Test your resume through an ATS checker tool if you have concerns before submitting it for applications.

When choosing a two-column ATS resume template, consider the following: Is the template easy to customize with your own information? Does it allow you to emphasize your key skills and achievements prominently? Can you easily adjust the sections to fit your specific experience and the job requirements? Look for templates that are straightforward and avoid excessive design elements. Remember the goal is to convey your qualifications effectively, and the template should support, not detract from, that objective.

What sections should I include in my two-column ATS resume? Start with a concise professional summary or objective statement. Follow this with a dedicated skills section listing both hard and soft skills relevant to the target roles. Detail your work experience, emphasizing accomplishments and quantifiable results whenever possible. Include sections for education, certifications, and any relevant projects or volunteer experience. Tailor the order and content of these sections to match the specific requirements of each job you apply for.

How can I optimize my two-column ATS resume for specific jobs? The most important step is to carefully review the job description and identify the key skills and qualifications being sought. Incorporate these keywords throughout your resume, particularly in your skills section and within your descriptions of work experience. Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and achievements, and quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. Tailoring your resume in this way demonstrates to both the ATS and the hiring manager that you are a strong fit for the role.

Refine & Revisit

We hope this two-column ATS resume template provides a solid foundation for your job search. Remember to carefully tailor the content to each specific role you apply for, highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the job description. Proofread thoroughly for any errors before submitting.

This template is just the beginning! We continually update our resources with new templates, tips, and articles to help you stand out from the competition. Be sure to revisit our site regularly for the latest tools and strategies to optimize your resume and land your dream job. Good luck!