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Microsoft ATS Tips

How to get your resume past Microsoft's Applicant Tracking System and into the hands of a recruiter.

Which ATS does Microsoft use?

Microsoft uses iCIMS as their Applicant Tracking System. This means your resume will be parsed and scored by iCIMS's algorithms before a human ever sees it.

Application Tips for Microsoft

Microsoft uses iCIMS as their ATS. Standard resume formatting works well.

Microsoft values "growth mindset" — show examples of learning, adapting, and evolving.

For technical roles, emphasize cloud and AI experience (Azure, Copilot, OpenAI integration).

Microsoft also values diversity and inclusion — highlight collaborative team experiences.

Keywords That Resonate at Microsoft

These terms reflect Microsoft's culture and values. Naturally weaving them into your resume and cover letter signals cultural fit.

growth mindsetcustomer obsesseddiverse and inclusiveone Microsoftaccountabilityinnovationempowermentrespect

General ATS Formatting Rules

  • ✓Use a clean, single-column layout — multi-column formats confuse most ATS parsers.
  • ✓Stick to standard section headings: Experience, Education, Skills, Certifications.
  • ✓Avoid images, tables, text boxes, and headers/footers — these are often stripped.
  • ✓Submit as PDF unless the job posting specifically requests .docx.
  • ✓Match keywords from the job description exactly — ATS scores keyword overlap.

Check your resume against Microsoft's ATS

Huntly's ATS optimizer scores your resume and gives you specific suggestions to pass Microsoft's system.

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