Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan resumes for keywords and structured data. They rank or discard resumes when keywords, sections, or formatting don't match what recruiters expect.

For an Independent Adjuster, ATS look for words like "claims handling", "field inspections", "estimating", "Xactimate", "policy interpretation", "subrogation", "coverage analysis", "CAT response", "property", "casualty", "liability", "state licensing", and "ISO forms".

• Use standard section titles: "Work Experience", "Education", "Certifications", "Skills".
• List technical tools like Xactimate and claim management systems by name.
• Include state licenses and adjuster numbers where required.

Avoid complex formatting. Don’t use tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, or graphs. Those elements often confuse parsers.

Pick readable fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Save your file as .docx or a plain PDF. Some ATS parse .docx more reliably than styled PDFs.

Write clear, keyword-rich bullets for each role. Start bullets with action verbs. Quantify results when you can, for example claim counts or recovery amounts.

Common mistakes cost you interviews. Using creative synonyms instead of exact keywords will hide your skills from ATS. Relying on header or footer text can drop critical info. Omitting certifications, license numbers, or key tools leaves gaps recruiters notice.

Keep phrases simple and direct. Mirror phrases from the job posting where they match your real skills. That increases the chance your resume moves to a human reviewer.

Pick a clean, professional template with a reverse-chronological layout for an Independent Adjuster. That layout highlights recent claims experience and inspection work.

Keep length to one page if you have under 10 years of experience. Use two pages only if you have long, directly relevant claim history or management roles.

Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, Georgia, or Garamond. Set body text to 10–12pt and headers to 14–16pt for clear hierarchy.

Leave ample white space around headings and sections. Use consistent spacing between lines and sections so an adjuster or claims manager can scan quickly.

Use standard headings like Summary, Experience, Certifications, Technical Skills, Education, and Licenses. Put key certifications such as CPCU, AIC, or state adjuster licenses near the top.

Avoid complex multi-column layouts and embedded graphics that break ATS parsing. Stick to simple bullet lists for duties and quantifiable results like claim dollars recovered or days to close files.

Common mistakes include small fonts, inconsistent dates, and cluttered contact blocks. Also avoid vague duties; show measured outcomes like claim counts, reserve changes, or cycle-time reduction.

Use action verbs and short accomplishment lines. Start bullets with verbs like inspected, negotiated, reduced, or closed and include metrics when you can.

Why a tailored cover letter matters

A tailored cover letter shows you read the job and care about the company. You use it to explain fit beyond the resume and show real interest in the Independent Adjuster role.

Key sections and what to say

• Header: Put your contact details and the date. Add the company or hiring manager contact if you know it.
• Opening paragraph: Name the Independent Adjuster role you want. Say why you want the job and mention your top qualification or where you saw the posting.
• Body paragraphs (1-3): Link your experience to the job needs. Describe key claims you handled, inspection skills, or estimating software you used. Share measurable wins, like faster claim closures or saved costs. Show teamwork and problem solving. Use job description words to match your skills to their needs.
• Closing paragraph: Restate interest in the specific role and company. Say you can add value and ask for a meeting or interview. Thank them for their time.

Tone and tailoring

Keep your tone professional and upbeat. Write like you speak to a helpful recruiter. Use plain words and short sentences. Tailor each letter for the job and avoid generic templates. Mention a company detail when you can.

Practical tips

Start strong with your best claim-related result. Use one clear example per paragraph. End with a direct call to action asking for a meeting.

When you apply as an Independent Adjuster, your resume must show accuracy and clear claims experience. Recruiters scan for license status, field work, and claim outcomes.

Small errors can cost you an interview. Fixing common mistakes lifts your chances quickly.

If you work as an Independent Adjuster, your resume should show claims experience, estimating ability, and field decision skills. These FAQs and tips help you present those strengths clearly, highlight relevant certifications, and show how to document large-loss and CAT work.