How To Use Compliant Formatting In Your Resume

Your resume is often your first impression with an employer but even the most qualified candidates can be rejected if their resumes fail automated scans. That’s where compliant formatting comes in. By following simple formatting rules, you ensure your resume is both recruiter-friendly and ATS-approved.

 
What Is Compliant Formatting?
Compliant formatting means using a clean, professional layout that applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruiters can easily read. It avoids fancy graphics, unusual fonts, or tables that could confuse scanning software. Instead, it emphasizes clarity, structure, and keyword alignment.

 
Why It Matters
According to hiring studies, 75% of resumes never reach human recruiters because they fail ATS screening. Common issues include decorative fonts, image-based PDFs, or inconsistent section headings. With compliant formatting, your resume avoids these pitfalls, improving your chances of getting noticed.

 
Key Guidelines for Compliant Formatting
Fonts – Stick to standard fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Times New Roman.
Layout – Use a single column, left-aligned structure. Avoid tables or graphics.
Headings – Label sections clearly: Work Experience, Education, Skills.
File Type – Save as .docx or a text-based PDF, never as an image.
Length – Keep resumes between 1–2 pages for best readability.
 
 
Conclusion
Compliant formatting is no longer optional—it’s essential. A well-structured resume ensures you pass ATS checks and present a professional image to recruiters. Tools like MaxProfile even offer pre-designed, ATS-compliant templates, making the process easier for job seekers. By focusing on structure and readability, you’ll boost your chances of getting interviews and moving one step closer to your career goals.