Updated for 2026

The Only ATS-Friendly Resume Template You Need

Bypass the bots and impress the humans. A dual-purpose Google Docs template designed for 99% parse rates and high-impact physical delivery.

Compatible with Google Docs, Microsoft Word, and PDF export.

Professional resume on a desk ready for review

Why Your Resume is Getting Rejected

There are two failure points in modern hiring: the robot gatekeeper and the overwhelmed human.

ATS software scanning resume data

1. The ATS Filter

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) parse your resume into a database. If you use columns, tables, graphics, or non-standard fonts, the parser fails. Your "years of experience" might read as zero, automatically disqualifying you.

2. The Attention Deficit

Even if you pass the bot, you are one of 500+ digital files. Hiring managers spend an average of 6 seconds scanning a resume. If the layout isn't instantly readable, they move on.

The Anatomy of an ATS-Proof Resume

Our template follows strict typographic rules to ensure it survives the digital filter while looking premium in print.

Single Column Layout Parsers read left-to-right. Columns scramble the reading order.
Standard Headings Use "Experience" and "Education", not "My Journey" or "Knowledge Base".
No Tables or Text Boxes Information inside tables often disappears completely in older ATS.
Print-Ready Margins 0.75" to 1" margins ensure your resume looks professional when printed and mailed.

JANE DOE

San Francisco, CA | (555) 123-4567 | jane.doe@email.com

linkedin.com/in/janedoe

Professional Experience

Senior Product Manager 2022 – Present
Tech Company Inc. | San Francisco, CA
  • Led cross-functional team of 15 engineers and designers to launch flagship product.
  • Increased user retention by 25% through data-driven feature optimization.
  • Managed $2M annual budget and reduced operational costs by 15%.
Product Manager 2019 – 2022
Startup LLC | Austin, TX
  • Spearheaded the development of the mobile application from concept to launch.
  • Collaborated with sales team to define go-to-market strategy.

Education

Bachelor of Science, Computer Science 2019
University of Technology

One Document, Two Powerful Outputs

How to use this template for both digital applications and physical Ballista packets.

01

For Online Applications (ATS)

Once you've filled out the Google Doc, go to File > Download > PDF Document (.pdf). This PDF preserves the text layer perfectly for ATS parsers. Upload this file to LinkedIn, Indeed, or company portals.

02

For Ballista Packets (Print)

Use the exact same PDF. Upload it to your Ballista dashboard. Our system automatically checks the margins and resolution. We print it on premium paper and FedEx it directly to the decision maker's desk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my resume be 2 pages?

Yes. For senior roles (10+ years of experience), a 2-page resume is standard and accepted by ATS. Just ensure your most critical information is on the first page. If you are early in your career, stick to one page.

Should I use a header or footer?

Keep it simple. Some older ATS parsers ignore information in the header/footer sections of a Word/Google Doc. It is safer to put your contact information in the main body of the document at the very top, rather than using the "Insert Header" function.

Are hyperlinks okay?

Yes, but write out the URL or keep the anchor text simple (e.g., "LinkedIn Profile"). For the printed version sent via Ballista, ensure the URL is visible so the hiring manager can type it in if they want to see your portfolio.

What font should I use?

Stick to standard, web-safe fonts. Arial, Calibri, Helvetica, Roboto, Georgia, and Figtree are excellent choices. Avoid custom downloaded fonts that might not render correctly on the recruiter's machine.

Don't Just Apply. Arrive.

You have the template. Now get it into the right hands. Use Ballista to send your resume directly to the decision maker, bypassing the digital pile entirely.