How to optimize your resume to pass the initial screen

Learn how clean formatting and relevant keywords can help your resume move forward in the hiring process. 

Across the industry, automated tools are often used to sort applications before they reach a recruiter. Their role is simply to compare the information on your resume with the job requirements. We spoke with our IQVIA recruiters on this topic, and they say the goal isn’t to “beat” the screening system, but to make your experience easy for both the system and the human reviewer to understand. Clear language, relevant keywords and a clean format can help ensure your application moves forward.

The formatting choices that matter most

Beautifully designed resumes can be stunning, but they can also cause technical issues.

“Sometimes we see resumes that include tables, graphs, multiple columns and unusual fonts. Even if they look impressive, those things might confuse screening technology,” said Nikhil Agarwal, director of Talent Intelligence & Analytics at IQVIA.

Overly creative formats can also obscure critical details for the recruiter.

“Readability is key. Overstyled resumes can actually cause information to be missed,” said Ashley Sloan, senior recruiter at IQVIA. "For most roles — especially technical, analytical, clinical, scientific and operational positions — a straightforward, well-organized layout is the safest and strongest choice."

Other common pitfalls to avoid

Recruiters highlighted several additional recurring mistakes that commonly confuse the candidate screening system:

Saving in a format that is not tech-friendly
- Files saved as .pages, .odt, .txt, .jpg or .png often aren’t readable. Saving as .docx or .pdf is best
Copying entire phrases from job descriptions
- Modern systems can screen for this and will file it as spam
Using complex templates with multiple columns
- Simple is best for system readability
Unusual section headings
- Screening technology understands headings like “Work Experience,” but it may not understand “My Story”

Remember, the strongest resumes are easily skimmable, avoid shortcuts and emphasize authenticity. Watch our video for more top tips!

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