Do Canva Resumes Pass ATS?

Canva is a popular online design platform that offers a wide range of templates for creating visually appealing resumes. Many job seekers find Canva to be a convenient tool for designing their resumes, thanks to its user-friendly interface and extensive library of design elements. However, there is an ongoing debate about whether Canva resumes pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) used by many employers.

What is an ATS?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software used by employers to manage and streamline their hiring process. When you submit a resume online, it often goes through an ATS before it reaches the eyes of a human recruiter. The purpose of an ATS is to scan and filter resumes based on specific criteria set by the employer.

ATS-friendly Resumes

To ensure your resume gets through the ATS screening successfully, it's important to create an ATS-friendly resume. An ATS-friendly resume is designed with certain formatting considerations in mind, such as using standard fonts, avoiding complex graphics or images, and organizing content in a way that makes it easy for the system to parse.

The Debate: Can Canva Resumes Pass ATS?

Many job seekers wonder if Canva resumes are compatible with ATS systems. While Canva offers visually appealing templates with attractive designs, some argue that these designs can hinder the readability and parsing ability of an ATS.

Fonts:

One potential issue with Canva resumes is the use of non-standard fonts. While they may look great visually, some fonts may not be recognized by an ATS, leading to text being replaced with default fonts or causing parsing errors.

Graphics and Images:

A common feature of Canva resumes is the use of graphics and images to enhance visual appeal. However, ATS systems may struggle to interpret these elements, potentially leading to parsing errors or incomplete extraction of information.

Text Organization:

Another consideration is how the text is organized within a Canva resume. Using HTML elements like

and
• to create properly structured lists can improve readability for human recruiters. However, an ATS may not prioritize or recognize these elements, potentially affecting the way the content is parsed and evaluated.

  Tips for Creating ATS-friendly Canva Resumes

  While there are potential challenges when using Canva resumes with an ATS, there are steps you can take to increase the likelihood of a successful parsing:

  • Simplicity: Opt for clean and simple designs that prioritize readability over complex graphics or images.
  • Standard Fonts: Stick to widely recognized fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri to ensure compatibility with ATS systems.
  • No Text in Images: Avoid including important text within images as it may not be recognized by the ATS.
  • Clean Formatting: Use clear headings (

    ,

    ) and bullet points (

    ,
    • ) to organize your content in a structured manner.
    • No Fancy Styling: While HTML styling elements like bold () and underline () can enhance readability for humans, they may not hold the same weight when it comes to an ATS. Focus on content rather than excessive styling.

    The Bottom Line

    In conclusion, while Canva offers visually appealing templates for resumes, it's important to consider the compatibility with ATS systems if you plan on submitting your resume online. By following the tips mentioned above and ensuring your Canva resume is designed with ATS compatibility in mind, you can increase the chances of your resume passing through the initial screening process.

    Remember, the ultimate goal is to create a resume that is both visually engaging and ATS-friendly, striking a balance between design aesthetics and readability for both humans and machines.