Applicant Tracking Systems, or ATS, help employers sort resumes automatically. They scan resumes for keywords and structured data. ATS can drop resumes for bad formatting or missing fields.

For an Information Specialist, ATS looks for terms like metadata, cataloging, records management, archival processing, Dublin Core, MARC21, data curation, SharePoint, SQL, Python, privacy, and retention policy. Use exact terms that appear in job postings. Match certifications like Certified Records Manager or IMLS grant experience when listed.

• Use standard section headings: Work Experience, Education, and Skills.
• List skills in plain text, not images.
• Put dates and locations on the same line as each job.

Avoid complex formatting such as tables, columns, text boxes, headers, footers, images, and embedded charts. ATS may skip content in those areas. Use simple, readable fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.

Save your file as a clean .docx or text-based PDF. Don’t upload heavily designed files or resume templates with lots of graphics. Keep layout linear so parsers read top to bottom.

Common mistakes trip up Information Specialists. People use creative synonyms instead of exact keywords. They put important info in headers or footers that ATS ignores. They remove critical tools or certification words from the Skills list.

Follow these rules and your resume will pass the initial scan more often. Then hiring managers can judge your work and impact.

Pick a clean, single-column layout for an Information Specialist. Use reverse-chronological order so your most recent data management work appears first.

Keep your resume to one page if you have under 10 years of relevant work. Go to two pages only if you have many projects or leadership roles tied to information systems.

Use ATS-friendly fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Georgia. Set body text to 10–12pt and section headers to 14–16pt so scanners and humans read your file easily.

Give each section room. Use consistent line spacing and 0.3–0.5 inch margins to keep white space. That makes dense technical details easier to scan.

Stick to simple formatting. Avoid complex tables, text boxes, or images that confuse ATS and slow reviewers.

Use clear headings such as Contact, Summary, Skills, Experience, Education, Certifications, and Projects. Match common job keywords to the job description so ATS finds your skills.

Watch these common mistakes: too many fonts, tiny margins, inconsistent bullet styles, and long paragraphs. Don’t bury quantifiable results under generic duties.

For an Information Specialist, list tools, platforms, and data standards near the top. Show measurable outcomes like improved retrieval time, reduced errors, or increased access rates.

Writing a tailored cover letter matters for an Information Specialist role. It lets you explain how your skills fit the job. It also shows real interest beyond what your resume shows.

Keep the letter short and direct. Use clear examples of your data handling, research, or information systems work. Show how you solved a real problem, reduced errors, or improved access to information.

Key sections you should include:

• Header: Put your contact details, the date, and the employer contact if you have it.
• Opening paragraph: Say the exact role you want, state where you found it, and name one strong qualification up front.
• Body paragraphs: Connect your work to the job needs. Describe important projects, list relevant technical skills like metadata tagging, SQL, or knowledge management tools, and name soft skills like teamwork and clear communication.
• Closing paragraph: Reaffirm your interest, ask for an interview, and thank the reader.

Write like you are talking to a friendly hiring manager. Use active verbs and short sentences. Pull keywords from the job posting and mirror the role language.

Tone matters. Stay professional, confident, and upbeat. Avoid generic templates. Tailor each sentence to the company and role. That effort shows.

Before you send, cut every extra word. Make each sentence do work. Then proofread for clarity and any small errors.

When you apply for an Information Specialist role, small resume errors can cost you interviews. Recruiters want clear evidence you can organize, find, and deliver information. Take a few minutes to tighten wording, add specifics, and show measurable impact.

Below are common mistakes people make on Information Specialist resumes. Each entry shows a short example of the error and a simple fix you can apply right away.

If you work as an Information Specialist, this set of FAQs and tips helps you shape your resume to show research, data management, and information delivery skills. Use these suggestions to make your experience clear, measurable, and easy for hiring managers to scan.