TL;DR

New grad PM resumes often get blocked by FAANG's Applicant Tracking System (ATS) due to lack of relevant keywords and formatting issues. The solution lies in tailoring your resume to match FAANG's specific requirements. With a few strategic fixes, you can increase your chances of passing the ATS and getting your resume seen by hiring managers.

Who This Is For

This article is for new graduates applying for Product Manager (PM) roles at FAANG companies (Facebook, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, Google). If you've recently graduated and are struggling to get your resume past the ATS, this article is for you. Specifically, it's for those who have limited work experience and are unsure how to optimize their resume for FAANG's ATS.

What Makes a Resume Get Blocked by FAANG's ATS?

The primary reason new grad PM resumes get blocked is the lack of relevant keywords and phrases. FAANG's ATS is designed to filter out resumes that don't match the required skills and qualifications. For instance, in a recent debrief, a hiring manager mentioned that they received over 500 resumes for a single PM role, but only 20% made it past the ATS. The resumes that got blocked lacked specific keywords like "agile development," "data analysis," and "product lifecycle management."

How Do I Identify the Right Keywords for My Resume?

To identify the right keywords, research the job description and requirements for the PM role you're applying for. Look for specific skills, tools, and qualifications mentioned. For example, if you're applying for a PM role at Google, the job description might mention "Google Cloud Platform" and "machine learning." Make a list of these keywords and phrases and incorporate them into your resume, especially in your summary, skills section, and work experience.

What Are the Most Common Resume Formatting Issues That Cause ATS Blocks?

Resume formatting issues are a common cause of ATS blocks. This includes using tables, images, and graphics, which can confuse the ATS. A bad example is a resume with a table summarizing work experience; a good example is a resume with a concise, text-based summary. Another issue is using fonts that are not standard, such as Arial or Calibri. Stick to standard fonts and formatting to ensure your resume passes the ATS.

How Can I Optimize My Resume for FAANG's ATS?

To optimize your resume, use a clear and concise format with bullet points and white space. Use keywords and phrases from the job description and requirements. For instance, if you're applying for a PM role at Amazon, use keywords like "customer obsession" and "ownership." Also, make sure your resume is tailored to the specific job you're applying for. A study by Glassdoor found that 58% of recruiters prefer resumes that are tailored to the job description.

Preparation Checklist

To increase your chances of getting past the ATS, follow these preparation checklist items:

  • Tailor your resume to match the job description and requirements.
  • Use specific keywords and phrases from the job description.
  • Use a clear and concise format with bullet points and white space.
  • Avoid using tables, images, and graphics.
  • Use standard fonts like Arial or Calibri.
  • Work through a structured preparation system (the PM Interview Playbook covers resume optimization with real debrief examples).

Mistakes to Avoid

Here are three common mistakes to avoid:

  • BAD: Using a generic resume for all job applications. GOOD: Tailoring your resume to each job application.
  • BAD: Including irrelevant work experience. GOOD: Focusing on relevant work experience and skills.
  • BAD: Using images and graphics to make your resume visually appealing. GOOD: Using a clear and concise format with bullet points and white space.

FAQ

Q: What if I've already submitted my resume and it got blocked?

A: Don't worry, you can try resubmitting a revised resume that addresses the issues mentioned above. However, be cautious not to resubmit too many times, as this can raise red flags with the hiring team.

Q: How long does it take for the ATS to process a resume?

A: The time it takes for the ATS to process a resume varies, but it usually takes a few days to a week. If you haven't heard back within a week, it's best to follow up with the hiring team.

Q: Can I use the same resume for different FAANG companies?

A: While the ATS requirements are similar across FAANG companies, it's best to tailor your resume to each specific job application. This shows that you've taken the time to research the company and role, and increases your chances of getting past the ATS.amazon.com/dp/B0GWWJQ2S3).

Stop guessing what's wrong with your resume.

Get the Resume Operating System → — the same system that helped 3 buyers land interviews at FAANG companies.

Want to start smaller? Download the free Resume Red Flags Checklist and fix the 5 most common ATS killers in 15 minutes.