10 ATS—Friendly Resume Tips to Increase Your Shortlisting Chances | Beat Applicant Tracking Systems

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) screen more than 75% of resumes before a recruiter even sees them.
If your resume is not ATS-friendly, it may get rejected—even if you are perfectly qualified.

This guide gives you 10 proven ATS optimization strategies to help you get shortlisted faster

“Mastering ATS-friendly resumes is key to getting noticed. These 10 tips will help you optimize your resume for better keyword relevance and cleaner formatting, boosting your chances of making the shortlist.”
— 

What you’ll learn

What Is ATS & Why Does It Matter?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is recruiting software that automates hiring by managing job postings, applications, candidate screening, and tracking through the hiring process.

• Filter resumes
• Match keywords
• Rank applicants
• Reject non-matching candidates automatically

Big companies, MNCs, startups, and even HR agencies rely on ATS today.

If your resume isn’t ATS—friendly, it may never reach the recruiter.

ATS handles high-volume resumes by parsing keywords, ranking candidates, and filtering matches, allowing recruiters to focus on top fits rather than manual review. Over 90% of large companies and many mid-sized firms use ATS, so unoptimized resumes often get rejected before human eyes see them.​

Key Benefits

• Streamlines workflows with automated emails, interview scheduling, and compliance tracking.​
• Improves efficiency, candidate experience, and data insights for faster hiring.​
• Reduces bias through structured screening while storing applicant data for future roles.

Why Resumes Get Rejected by ATS

Your resume may be rejected because:

• It contains tables or text boxes
• It has too many graphics or icons
• Keywords don’t match the job description
• Font is unreadable
• File type is incompatible
• Headings are non-standard
• Formatting is complex

10 ATS-Friendly Resume Tips

Tip 1: Use a Simple, Clean Resume Format

Avoid:

• Multiple columns
• Fancy designs
• Canva resumes with graphics

Use a single-column layout for ATS readability.

Tip 2: Use Standard Section Headings

ATS understands standard labels like:

• Summary
• Skills
• Experience
• Education
• Certifications

Do NOT use creative headings like:

• “My Journey”
• “What I’ve Done”

Tip 3: Match Job Description Keywords

If the job description says:

• “Python”
• “API development”
• “SQL”

Your resume MUST include those keywords naturally.

ATS ranks based on keyword match percentage.

Tip 4: Choose ATS-Compatible Fonts

Use:

• Arial
• Calibri
• Helvetica
• Times New Roman

Avoid:

• Script fonts
• Stylized fonts

Tip 5: Save as PDF (Unless the Job Says Otherwise)

Most ATS systems accept:

• PDF
• DOCX

But if the job specifically asks for DOC/DOCX, follow their requirement.

Tip 6: Avoid Graphics, Icons & Tables

ATS cannot read:

• Icons for phone/email
• Skill progress bars
• Text inside shapes or charts

Keep everything plain text.

Tip 7: Add a Skills Section With Hard Skills First

ATS values hard skills more than soft skills.

Example:
Python · Machine Learning · Excel · SQL · Data Visualization

Tip 8: Use Bullet Points, Not Paragraphs

ATS reads bullet points easily.

Bullets also improve readability for humans.

Tip 9: Optimize File Name

Use a professional file name: Firstname_Lastname_Resume_2025 or Firstname_Lastname_Role

Avoid:

• “Resume new final latest FINAL.pdf”
• “My CV (2).pdf”

Tip 10: Keep Formatting Consistent

Use consistent:

• Font size
• Indentation
• Bullet style
• Spacing
• Date format

ATS gets confused by inconsistent formatting.

ATS-Friendly Keywords You Should Add

These vary by industry, but common keywords include:

• Managed
• Developed
• Designed
• Implemented
• Achieved
• Analyzed
• Optimized
• Coordinated
• Delivered
• Improved

These help ATS identify achievements.

ATS-Proof Resume Example

Software Developer Example:

• Developed REST APIs using Python (Flask) for high-traffic applications
• Improved database efficiency by 30% using optimized SQL queries
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver sprint goals

Marketing Example:

• Managed SEO strategy increasing organic traffic by 120%
• Designed and executed paid campaigns with ROAS of 4.5x
• Implemented CRM automation improving lead engagement by 60%

Common Mistakes That Break ATS

Using tables or columns
Using images or icons
Using uncommon fonts
Writing paragraphs instead of bullets
Missing job-specific keywords
Uploading scanned resumes (not readable by ATS)

Final ATS Optimization Checklist

Your resume should:

Be 100% text-based

Contain job-matching keywords

Be saved as PDF or DOCX

Use clean formatting

Avoid graphics and tables

Have standard section headings

Include measurable achievements

If you follow these steps, your resume will pass ATS filters and land directly in a recruiter’s inbox.

Conclusion

An ATS-friendly resume isn’t about beauty — it’s about clarity, structure, and keywords.
A single keyword can decide whether you get shortlisted or rejected.

Implement these 10 tips, and you instantly improve your chances of getting shortlisted for more interviews and land in your dream job.

Right to Disconnect Bill is a landmark proposal that gives employees the legal right to ignore work calls, emails and messages after office hours and on holidays, without fear of punishment. It aims to protect mental health, reduce burnout and push companies toward a healthier, “Human-First” Work Culture.

In a world where smartphones, emails, and work-chats follow us home, the boundary between office hours and personal time has almost vanished. The “always-on” culture, fuelled by digital connectivity and remote work, has turned many evenings into unpaid shifts — a trend linked with burnout, stress, and deteriorating work–life balance. The newly introduced Right to Disconnect Bill, 2025 offers a potential remedy: a legal shield for employees to switch off after work, reclaim their time and mental peace.

“A nation cannot build a sustainable economy on a workforce that is exhausted, anxious and permanently on call.”
— 

What you’ll learn

What is the Right to Disconnect Bill, 2025?

At its core, The Right to Disconnect Bill gives every employee the legal right to refuse work-related communication – Calls, emails, messages, video meetings – after official working hours and on holidays. It means that not responding after hours cannot be treated as misconduct or grounds for poor appraisal, harrasment or dismissal.

• The Right to Disconnect Bill, 2025 was recently introduced in the lower house of Parliament (Lok Sabha) by Supriya Sule.
• The primary aim: to grant every employee the legal right to refuse work-related calls, emails, texts, video calls or any official communication after their agreed working hours and on holidays — without fear of disciplinary action.
• It covers all modes of digital communication: phone calls, WhatsApp/SMS messages, emails, video calls, push notifications — anything work-related. 
• The bill also provides for overtime pay if employees end up working beyond official hours, and proposes the creation of an authority (Employees’ Welfare Authority) to enforce and monitor compliance.
• Organizations that violate the law may face penalties — the draft mentions a fine amounting to 1% of total employee remuneration.

The Bill also proposes creating an Employees’ Welfare Authority to frame guidelines,  monitor employer compliance and resolve disputes between workers and organizations about after-hours work. This turns the idea of “Right to Disconnect” from a vague HR promise into an enforceable framework with accountability.

Why is this Bill Important — Especially in Today’s Digital Age

India’s urban workforce has quietly normalized 10-12 hour days, late-night calls with global teams and weekend deadlines. Many employees, especially in IT, Finance, Consulting and Start-ups, report chronic stress, sleep disturbance and a feeling that they are “always at work even when at home.”

• The rise of remote work and digital tools during the last decade has blurred the line between “office time” and “personal time.” Many employees now find themselves checking emails, attending late-night calls, or responding to messages long after the workday ends.
• This perpetual connectivity can lead to burnout, mental stress, sleep disruption and a feeling of always being “on call,” even during supposed downtime.
• By legally recognizing an employee’s right to disconnect, the bill aims to restore clear boundaries between work and life, promote mental well-being, and foster a healthier, more sustainable workplace culture.
• The bill draws from the ideals underlying Article 24 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights — the right to rest and leisure, reasonable limitation of working hours and periodic holidays with pay.

The Right to Disconnect Bill directly connects this always-on digital culture with rising burnout, anxiety and poor quality of life. It argues that a country striving for high productivity cannot ignore the human cost of overwork, especially among younger professionals who are burning out early in their careers.

What the Bill Promises — Key Provisions & Rights

Guarantee / Provision	Details / Significance
Right to log off	Employees are not obligated to respond to work messages/calls after hours or on holidays. (The Daily Jagran)
Protection from retaliation	No punishment, demotion, or warning for ignoring after-hour communication. (The Daily Jagran)
Covers all communication channels	Emails, phone calls, WhatsApp/SMS, video-conferencing — everything. (The Times of India)
Overtime pay if work continues	If work is performed after hours with mutual agreement, overtime payment is due at regular wage rate. (The Economic Times)
Institutional oversight	The Employees’ Welfare Authority will monitor and enforce compliance. (Business Today)
Penalty for violation	Non-compliant organisations may be fined (1% of total employee remuneration). (www.ndtv.com)

“This Bill aims to foster a better quality of life and a healthier work-life balance by reducing the burnout caused by today’s digital culture.” — Supriya Sule

How Other Countries Are Doing It — A Global Perspective

The idea of “disconnecting” after work isn’t new — many countries have already embraced it:

“When people know they can truly log off, they show up more fully when they log in.”

• Belgium adopted a “right to disconnect” law in 2022, giving public-sector employees the right to ignore after-hours emails and calls. World Economic Forum
• Several other European nations, along with Australia, have implemented similar policies or laws recognizing employee digital downtime. CNBC+1

These global examples show that giving employees control over their off-hours wasn’t just a corporate fad — it’s a growing trend rooted in labour welfare and long-term productivity.

What It Could Change — For Employees and Work Culture in India

• Better work–life balance: Evening hours truly become yours again — for family, hobbies, rest.
• Improved mental health: Reduced “telepressure” (the urge/pressure to respond) can lower stress, anxiety, sleep issues.
• Fair compensation for after-hour work — no more “free overtime.”
• Cultural shift: If widely adopted, could challenge and reduce “hustle culture,” glorification of overwork, and the notion that “always-on” equals productivity.
• Boundary and respect: Employers would need to respect defined work hours — encouraging a more humane workplace.

As one netizen on Reddit put it (in response to the Bill’s introduction):

“Time to face it: companies have been treating evenings and weekends like free overtime.” Reddit

Challenges & Concerns — What’s Not a Done Deal

The Bill raises genuine implementation questions that organizations will have to solve thoughtfully. How should global teams working across time zones schedule communication fairly? What counts as an emergency that justifies contacting someone after hours? How should small start-ups balance flexibility with boundaries?

• The Bill is currently a Private Member’s Bill — such bills rarely pass into law in India. Historically only a small fraction become statutes. The Economic Times+2VISION IAS+2
• Even if passed, implementation will matter: corporate buy-in, enforcement by the proposed Welfare Authority, and cultural shift inside organizations will be critical.
• Some worry employers may find loopholes or implicitly pressure workers to respond anyway — especially in high-demand sectors like IT, services, startups, BPOs.
• For certain roles (on-call support, client-facing, emergencies), defining “emergency contact” vs “normal expectation” could be murky. The Bill mentions emergency rules, but how those will be framed remains unclear. www.ndtv.com+1

Why This Should Matter to You

Whether you are a corporate employee, freelancer, remote-worker, or even a startup founder — the Bill signals a shift in how we value time, rest, and mental health.

• If you work long hours or get frequent after-hour calls/messages — this Bill could give you the legal right to say no.
• If you’re an employer or manager — this is a chance to reevaluate workplace norms and prioritise employee well-being and long-term productivity over “always-on” hustle.
• For the society at large — this might mark a cultural turning point: less glorification of overwork, more respect for personal time, mental health, family and life beyond work.

Conclusion

The Right to Disconnect Bill, 2025 speaks to a deep need of our times — in a world flooded with notifications, deadlines and remote-work expectations, there is something radical and necessary about the simple right to disconnect.

As the Bill moves forward, the real test will be whether it can transition from a proposal to a reality — and if, when implemented, it brings meaningful change beyond legal text. But even its introduction has sparked important conversations: about boundaries, balance, dignity — about reclaiming evening hours, rest, and our lives beyond work.

“Log-out means log-out.”

Let’s hope this isn’t just a slogan — but the start of a more humane workplace culture.

The Ultimate Resume Guide for Job Seekers | Step-by-Step Resume Writing + Examples

A resume is still the most powerful tool in your job search—but the rules have changed. Recruiters, AI tools, and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) have transformed how resumes are read and shortlisted.

This guide will help you create a resume that stands out —whether you’re a fresher or an experienced professional.

“Your resume is your first impression — make it count, because you never get a second chance to make a first impression.”
— 

What you’ll learn

1. What Makes a Resume Great

Recruiters receive 300–1,000 resumes per job posting today. Your resume must:

• Be scannable by ATS
• Show achievements, not responsibilities
• Use keywords naturally
• Be clean, simple, and professional
• Fit into 1 page (freshers) or 1–2 pages (experienced)

Golden rule: Your resume’s job is NOT to get you a job. Your resume’s job is to get you an interview.

2. Best Resume Format to Use (and Which Ones to Avoid)

Always use:

Reverse Chronological Format (Best for 2025)

Recruiters prefer this format because it shows your latest experience first.

Formats to Avoid

• Functional resume
• Graphic-heavy resume
• Canva resumes with too many design elements

These often break ATS systems.

3. Resume Structure (Universal for All Job Seekers)

Here is the ideal section order:

• Header (Name + Contact)
• Professional Summary
• Skills (Technical + Soft Skills)
• Work Experience / Internship Experience
• Education
• Certifications
• Projects (Optional)
• Awards & Achievements (Optional)

4. How to Write Each Resume Section

Header

• Name (bold, large)
• Phone number
• Email (professional only)
• LinkedIn URL
• Portfolio / GitHub (if applicable)

Professional Summary (3–4 lines max)

Focus on your strengths, experience, and impact.

Example (Experienced):
“Results-driven Marketing Specialist with 5+ years of experience improving brand visibility through digital campaigns, SEO, and analytics. Proven success increasing organic traffic by 120% and generating high-quality leads.”

Example (Fresher):
“Highly motivated engineering graduate skilled in Python, data analysis, and teamwork. Seeking an entry-level role to apply academic knowledge to real-world solutions.”

Skills Section

Separate into:

• Technical Skills (tools, software, technologies)

• Soft Skills (communication, teamwork, time management)

Keep them relevant to the job.

Work Experience (STAR Format)

For each job:

• Situation
• Task
• Action
• Result

Example:

• Reduced customer response time by 40% by implementing automated support workflows.
• Increased monthly sales by ₹3,50,000 through targeted outreach.

Always use numbers.

Education

Mention:

• Degree
• University
• Year of passing
• Relevant coursework (optional)

Certifications

Include only job-relevant certifications.

Projects

Useful for freshers, IT roles, and creatives.

Include:

• What you built
• Tools used
• Outcome

5. Resume Examples (Ready-to-Use)

Fresher Resume Example (Summary Only)

“Computer Science graduate skilled in Java, SQL, and cloud fundamentals. Completed 3 academic projects including an e-commerce website. Looking for opportunities in software development.”

Experienced Resume Example (Summary Only)

“Senior Sales Manager with 8+ years experience in B2B sales, lead generation, and customer acquisition. Consistently exceeded quarterly targets by 25–40%.”

6. ATS Optimization Checklist

Your resume is ATS-friendly if:

Uses simple fonts (Arial, Calibri, Helvetica)
Contains job-specific keywords
Uses bullet points instead of paragraphs
Has no images, text boxes, tables, or icons
Uses standard section headings (Experience, Skills)

7. Common Resume Mistakes

Spelling mistakes
Unprofessional email address
Overusing buzzwords
Too many colors
No numbers or achievements

8. Final Resume Checklist

• 1 page (fresher), 1–2 pages (experienced)
• Action verbs in each bullet
• Quantified achievements
• Keywords matched to job description
• Clean, consistent formatting
• A great resume isn’t designed once—it’s updated for every job.

Conclusion

Your resume is your first impression. If you invest even one hour improving it, your interview chances increase dramatically. Follow this guide, and you’ll be ahead of 90% of other job seekers applying for the job.

Payroll management in India has entered a transformative phase heading into 2026, driven by new labour codes, stricter compliance norms, increased digitalization, and a shift towards employee-centric compensation structures. Whether you are an HR professional, a startup founder, or a payroll specialist, understanding the updated rules is essential for accurate salary processing and maintaining statutory compliance.

This guide explores everything you need to know about payroll management in India for 2026, including updated labour laws, salary structuring norms, statutory deductions, and payroll automation best practices.

“Payroll in India is no longer just salary processing — it’s a strategic blend of compliance, transparency, and technology that shapes the employee experience.”
— 

What you’ll learn

Why Payroll Management Matters in 2026

With rising employee expectations, new legal frameworks, and integration of digital payroll systems, companies must ensure:

• Accurate salary computation
• Improved employee experience
• Strict adherence to statutory compliance
• Smooth audits and reporting
• Cost-efficient HR operations

The introduction of the 2025 labour code implementation has made compliant salary structuring more important than ever, especially with the 50% basic wage rule impacting PF, gratuity, and other social-security deductions.

Key Components of Payroll Management in India (2026)

A compliant payroll system for 2026 typically includes:

1. Salary Structure Components

• Basic Pay (minimum 50% of total wages in many cases)
• House Rent Allowance (HRA)
• Special Allowance
• Conveyance/Transport Allowance
• Dearness Allowance (where applicable)
• Performance Bonus / Variable Pay
• Overtime / Incentives / Reimbursements

2. Mandatory Statutory Deductions

• EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund)
• ESI (Employees’ State Insurance)
• TDS (Tax Deducted at Source)
• Professional Tax (State-wise)
• Labour Welfare Fund (State-wise)
• Gratuity contributions under the new Wage Code

3. Employer Payroll Liabilities

• Employer share of PF and ESI
• Bonus and gratuity obligations
• Paid leaves and leave encashment rules
• Statutory reporting and return filing

Impact of New Labour Codes on Payroll in 2026

The Wage Code, Social Security Code, Industrial Relations Code, and OSH Code are expected to shape payroll workflows significantly in 2026.

Major Payroll Implications:

1. Uniform definition of “Wages”—allowances cannot exceed 50% of CTC.
2. Higher PF & Gratuity payouts due to increased basic pay.
3. Revised working hours, overtime rules, and leave policies.
4. Improved social security benefits across sectors.
5. Increased compliance responsibility for companies with multi-state employees.

Companies need to restructure salaries and update payroll tools to stay compliant.

Payroll Processing Workflow for 2026

A modern payroll workflow includes:

1. Employee data collection & onboarding
2. Attendance & leave integration
3. Salary structuring as per 2026 rules
4. Automated calculation of earnings & deductions
5. Tax regime selection (Old vs New)
6. Payslip generation & salary disbursement
7. PF, ESI, PT, LWF, and TDS filings
8. Record-keeping for audit compliance

Data Protection & Payroll in 2026

With the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act) in force, payroll systems must:

• Use employee consent for data handling
• Protect sensitive information (PAN, Aadhaar, bank details)
• Maintain audit logs
• Follow strict data-storage protocols

This has made secure HRMS & cloud-based payroll software a necessity.

Rise of Payroll Automation and HR Tech in India

AI-powered and cloud-based payroll solutions like Zoho Payroll, RazorpayX Payroll, GreytHR, Keka, Freshteam, and Darwinbox are becoming industry standards.

• Benefits of Payroll Automation
• Zero manual errors
• Real-time compliance updates
• Statutory filing automation
• Seamless integration with attendance & HRMS
• Employee self-service portals

Best Practices for Payroll Management in 2026

To ensure smooth operations:

• Keep salary structures compliant with wage definitions
• Update PF, ESI, and tax rates every financial year
• Use automated payroll software
• Maintain transparent communication with employees
• Follow a monthly compliance calendar
• Conduct periodic payroll audits
• Use digital registers & e-filing tools
• Stay updated on state-wise labour laws

Conclusion

Payroll management in India for 2026 demands a blend of accurate salary computation, legal compliance, and technology-driven automation. With the new labour codes and evolving tax frameworks, businesses must modernize their payroll systems to ensure efficiency, transparency, and compliance.

Whether you’re a startup, SME, or enterprise, mastering payroll in 2026 is not just a compliance necessity — it’s a strategic advantage.

Career Development: Insights on how to advance in one’s career, including ways to develop new skills, network, and seek out opportunities for growth.

Advancing in one’s career is an ongoing process that requires a combination of effort, dedication, and strategy. Here are some insights on how to advance in your career:

“A mind troubled by doubt cannot focus on the course to victory.”
—Arthur Golden

What you’ll learn

1. Identify Your Goals and Aspirations

• The first step towards advancing your career is to identify your long-term goals and aspirations.
• You should have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve in your career and the steps you need to take to get there.
• This will help you stay focused and motivated, and it will also guide you in making decisions about the skills you need to develop, the networking opportunities you should pursue, and the growth opportunities you should seek out.

2. Develop New Skills

• In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing work environment, it is essential to continuously develop new skills.
• This will help you stay relevant and competitive in your field, and it will also demonstrate your commitment to personal and professional growth.
• Consider taking courses, attending conferences, or participating in online training programs to learn new skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.

3. Networking

• Networking is a critical aspect of career development.
• Building strong relationships with colleagues, industry professionals, and mentors can provide you with valuable insights, support, and opportunities for growth.
• Attend industry events, participate in professional organizations, and connect with people in your field through social media and networking platforms.

4. Seek Out Growth Opportunities

• Look for opportunities to take on new challenges and responsibilities in your current role, or consider pursuing a new role or position within your organization.
• You can also seek out volunteer work or freelance projects to gain new experiences and skills outside of your current job.

5. Build a Personal Brand

• Building a strong personal brand can help you stand out in your field and showcase your expertise and value to potential employers or clients.
• Consider creating a personal website, publishing articles or blog posts, or participating in industry forums and discussions to build your online presence and establish yourself as an authority in your field.

6. Seek Feedback and Learn from it

• Feedback is a valuable tool for personal and professional growth.
• Seek feedback from your colleagues, supervisors, and mentors, and use it as an opportunity to learn and improve.
• Ask for specific examples of what you are doing well and where you can improve, and take action to implement the feedback you receive.

7. Build Relationships with Mentors and Sponsors

• Mentors and sponsors can provide you with guidance, support, and advocacy in your career.
• Seek out individuals who have the experience and expertise you aspire to and build relationships with them.
• This can help you gain insights and perspectives that you might not otherwise have access to, as well as provide you with opportunities to showcase your talents and accomplishments.

8. Be Proactive and Take Initiative

• Advancing in your career often requires taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone.
• Be proactive in seeking out new opportunities, and take initiative in pursuing your goals.
• Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; create them yourself.

9. Be Adaptable and Flexible

• In today’s rapidly changing work environment, it is essential to be adaptable and flexible.
• Be open to new ideas, approaches, and ways of working, and be willing to learn and grow as the needs of your organization or industry evolve.

10. Maintain a Positive Attitude

• Finally, maintaining a positive attitude can go a long way in advancing your career.
• Stay motivated, enthusiastic, and optimistic, even in the face of challenges or setbacks.
• A positive attitude can help you stay focused and motivated, and it can also make you more attractive to potential employers or clients.

Conclusion

• Overall, advancing in your career requires a combination of smart work, a continuous process that requires ongoing effort & dedication, and strategic planning.
• By following these tips, identifying & staying committed to your goals, developing new skills, networking, seeking out growth opportunities, and building a strong personal brand, you can take your career to the next level and achieve the success you desire.