Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan resumes for keywords and structure. They rank and filter candidates before a human sees your resume. If your resume lacks key terms or uses odd formatting, the ATS can skip or misread your file.
For an ERP Manager, the ATS looks for system names, implementation skills, and leadership terms. Typical keywords include SAP, Oracle E-Business Suite, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, FI/CO, MM, SD, integrations, middleware, SQL, PL/SQL, data migration, UAT, cutover, project management, change management, PMP, SAP Certified, Oracle Certified, SaaS, and ERP lifecycle.
- Use standard section titles: Work Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications.
- Put role-specific keywords into skills and experience naturally.
- Avoid tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, and graphs.
- Choose a common font like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
- Save as a clean .docx or a simple PDF. Don’t submit heavily designed files.
Avoid creative synonyms for core tools and certifications. If a job asks for SAP and you write "enterprise ledger systems," the ATS may not match it. Don’t rely on layout to communicate facts. Some ATS ignore headers, footers, and embedded objects.
Watch for missing technical keywords. If you managed SAP FI/CO, say "SAP FI/CO" not "finance module." Put measurable outcomes next to system tasks, like "reduced month-end close by 30% with SAP configuration." Keep lines short and clear so parsers read duties correctly.