Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software tools that scan resumes for keywords and structure. They rank candidates by matches to job descriptions. If your resume lacks key terms or uses odd formatting, an ATS can drop your file before a human sees it.

For an Exhibitions and Collections Manager, ATS looks for terms tied to museum work. Use words like "collection management," "exhibition planning," "accessioning," "deaccessioning," "condition reporting," "preventive conservation," "collections database (TMS, PastPerfect)," "loan agreements," "provenance research," and "cataloguing." Also include certifications like "AAM standards," "Collections Care training," or conservation workshops.

• Use standard section headers: Work Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications.
• Keep formatting plain: no tables, columns, or images.
• Save as .docx or simple PDF with selectable text.

Use readable fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Keep font sizes consistent. Avoid headers, footers, text boxes, and graphs that ATS may ignore.

Write clear bullets that use action verbs. Example verbs include "managed," "organized," "catalogued," "negotiated," and "implemented." Match verbs to duties in the job post. Don’t stuff keywords; weave them into real duties and results.

Common mistakes cost interviews. Don’t swap exact keywords for creative synonyms like "show design" instead of "exhibition planning." Don’t hide dates or roles inside headers or images. Don’t skip core terms like "accessioning" or "condition reporting."

Choose a clean, professional template that highlights project work and collections care. Use a reverse-chronological layout so hiring managers see your recent exhibition wins first. That layout keeps dates and roles clear and helps ATS parse your history.

Keep length tight. One page suits early and mid-career exhibitions managers. If you led many loans, large shows, or conservation programs, extend to two pages and only include highly relevant entries.

Pick ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Use 10–12pt for body text and 14–16pt for headers. Leave ample white space and use consistent margins so curators and registrars can skim your skills quickly.

Structure sections with standard headings: Contact, Profile or Summary, Experience, Exhibitions & Loans, Collections Care, Education, Certifications, and Skills. Put measurable outcomes first, like visitor numbers, budget size, or object counts handled. Use short bullet points that start with active verbs and include numbers.

Avoid common mistakes. Don’t use multi-column layouts or heavy graphics that break ATS parsing. Avoid unusual fonts and bright color blocks that distract from your achievements. Don’t cram text; that makes it hard for readers to find your conservation or loans experience.

Use consistent date formats, clear job titles, and institution names. Include links to digital catalogues or online exhibitions if possible. Proofread for typos and keep section order logical for museum hiring teams.

Tailoring your cover letter for an Exhibitions and Collections Manager helps you link your experience to the museum's needs. It complements your resume and shows real interest.

Header: Put your contact details, the museum's name, and the date. Add the hiring manager's name if you know it.

Opening paragraph: Say which Exhibitions and Collections Manager role you want. Show genuine enthusiasm for the museum. Mention your top qualification or where you found the listing.

Body paragraphs: Focus on how your experience matches the job. Highlight project work, technical skills like collections care, conservation, database management, or exhibition planning, and soft skills like team leadership and stakeholder communication. Use numbers where you can.

• Mention a relevant project and its outcome, such as visitor growth or conservation results.
• List two or three technical skills tied to the role, like collection management systems, condition reporting, or installation logistics.
• Show collaboration with curators, registrars, and lenders.

Closing paragraph: Restate your interest in this specific Exhibitions and Collections Manager role. Say you can contribute to exhibitions and collections goals. Ask for an interview or meeting and thank the reader.

Tone and tailoring: Keep your tone professional, confident, and friendly. Write like you're talking to one person. Use the job description's keywords. Avoid generic templates.

Quick tips: Keep sentences short. Use active verbs. Tie every claim to a result or example. Edit for clarity and cut extra words.

If you want to land interviews as an Exhibitions and Collections Manager, small resume mistakes can cost you opportunities. Pay attention to wording, facts, and format so hiring teams see the right fit quickly.

This list points out common pitfalls specific to exhibitions and collections work. Each item shows a real mistake and a clear fix you can use right away.

This set of FAQs and tips helps you shape a resume for an Exhibitions and Collections Manager role. You'll find quick answers on format, skills to highlight, and how to show projects and qualifications. Use these to make your application clear and focused.