Write an ATS-Friendly CV: 6 Tips to Reach Recruiters

As a jobseeker, it’s crucial to have an ATS-friendly CV in today’s job market. Why? In a highly competitive job search, it’s critical your CV is easily scannable to pass the ATS test. It increases your chances of moving past the ATS screen to a human recruiter.

In this article, we’ll explain what an ATS is, why having an ATS-friendly CV helps jobseekers (and recruiters), as well as six steps to helping your CV get past the ATS.

What is ATS or Applicant Tracking System?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software application that automates and streamlines the recruitment process for employers. It allows companies to manage job postings, track and organise CVs and applications, and communicate with candidates. ATS systems have become increasingly popular over the years as more companies move their recruitment processes online and generative AI becomes more prominent.

What is an ATS-friendly CV?

An ATS-friendly CV means that it is formatted, or optimised to be easily read by applicant tracking system software. These systems are used during the hiring process to scan and filter through a large number of CVs quickly. Sometimes recruiters receive thousands of applications for job postings and an ATS helps them identify candidates who match qualifications efficiently.

It includes a clear format, standard fonts and headings, and relevant keywords and phrases from the job description. Imagine if an engineering role required candidates to be fluent in Brazilian Portuguese, but 3,000 people who aren’t fluent in the language applied anyway. It’s impossible for recruiters to manually review at such large volumes, especially if many of them don’t meet basic requirements.

Why is an ATS-friendly CV important for jobseekers?

When it comes to CVs, ATS software typically uses a process called parsing to extract relevant information from CVs and applications. Parsing involves breaking down the document into individual data points such as contact information, work experience, and education.

The software analyses this information against predefined criteria. This may include skills, or keywords to identify candidates matching the requirements of the job posting.

If the ATS doesn’t parse your experience and skills, your CV might be rejected even if you’re highly qualified for the job.

How do I get past the ATS?

To make sure your CV isn’t overlooked follow these six steps to create and optimise your application.

1. Format your CV in the right way

ATS software is designed to read and process CVs following specific formats, so it is crucial to use the appropriate one. Opt for a simple and standard format with bullet points, and use bold, italics, and underlining as necessary.

Most fonts are parsed effectively by the majority of ATS software, so you have more flexibility when it comes to this. However, it’s essential to ensure the font you choose is legible and easy to read. While formatting dates, use the format MM/YYYY or “Month Year.”

A myth or just outdated assumptions?

Conventional wisdom advises jobseekers to avoid graphics, images, tables, or columns as they may confuse the ATS.

However, there is evidence that suggests CVs with visual graphics and tables are parsed just as well as those without and using these elements would not result in different outcomes.

More importantly, however, jobseekers should carefully consider whether including graphics and tables will enhance the overall appearance and effectiveness of their application. They should also assess if these elements drive more attention to their qualifications and experience.

Ultimately, the decision to include those items should be based on the individual jobseeker’s circumstances and the requirements of the job.

2. Include relevant keywords

To increase your chances of getting noticed by an ATS, it’s crucial to incorporate relevant keywords and phrases from the job description in your CV. Take the time to carefully read the job description and use the same keywords consistently throughout, particularly in the skills and experience sections.

Caution: avoid overloading your CV with too many keywords. This can make it appear spammy and ultimately harm your chances of being selected.

Keyword Tip:

Keep in mind how logical variations help you cover essential terms without overtly repeating them. For instance, if you have experience developing ATS software, use both “ATS” and “Applicant Tracking System” software in your CV.

Some job applicants try to manipulate the ATS by adding extra keywords at the bottom of their CV or using white text as an attempt to camouflage them to human readers. We don’t recommend this, of course. An ATS might actually penalise you for it too.

3. Use clear and concise language

To increase your chances of passing the ATS scan, it’s important to use clear and concise language in your CV. Avoid using industry-specific jargon, acronyms, or abbreviations the ATS may not recognise. Even if you do use them, spell them out at least once to ensure the ATS can identify them.

However, in some industries it’s difficult to avoid jargon and abbreviations altogether. Follow the lead of the job description and use the same terms from the posting. You might also use different variations of the same term – spell it out the first time but abbreviate it later in the CV.

Make it easy for the ATS to scan your CV by using standard headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” Avoid using unconventional headings or getting too creative with your formatting. Remember, the goal is to help the ATS system easily identify your qualifications, not to stand out with a fancy design.

4. Connect the job title to your CV headline

Your CV is more likely to surface if you include the job role in your attention-getter of a headline. When a recruiter searches for a specific title, your CV will be sure to show up. So, if you’re applying for a job listed as “Sales Manager,” your ATS-compliant CV headline might look something like this: “Sales Manager with 6 Years of Fintech Experience.”

Another important factor related to the job title is the name of the file you send to the employer. Some ATS systems actually rate the name of the file so it’s a good idea to make sure it corresponds to the job position and your name.

For example, if you’re applying for a job as a “Software Engineer” at “XYZ Company,” your file name might be “JohnDoe_SoftwareEngineer_XYZCompany.pdf.” Although a small detail, this can help your CV stand out in the ATS and increase the chances of a human recruiter seeing it.

Imagine looking at a list of files and 90% of them are titled “CV.” If you’re customising your CV for different companies or roles, this helps you stay organised too.

5. Use the right file format

When it comes to submitting your CV to an Applicant Tracking System, many jobseekers are unsure about which file format to use. The good news is both Word and PDF formats can work well with an ATS – there isn’t a significant difference in the rate between the two formats.

That being said, it’s important to note PDFs tend to be larger in size, which may cause them to be parsed at a lower rate. Keep the file size under 2MB to ensure it can be uploaded and parsed properly.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use PDF or Word for your CV comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the job application. One of the main benefits of using PDF is it maintains its formatting across various operating systems and software.

6. Proofread your CV

Finally, double-check your CV to ensure there are no spelling or grammar errors to confuse the ATS. Use a free grammar checker tool such as Grammarly to eliminate errors and ensure the language is clear and professional.

Typically, less is more when it comes to ATS-friendly CVs. By keeping it simple and using these tips, you increase your CV’s chances of advancing through ATS software and straight to a recruiter.

You’re on your way to an ATS-friendly CV

Keep in mind, an ATS-friendly CV format may feel a little dull, but for the initial phase of the hiring process, it’s simply playing by the rules of the game. There are other contexts where a different design or format may be more appropriate. For example, many people have an ATS version, and one they might include as part of a portfolio page or site. If you attend an on-site interview, you may choose to have a more creative version. Think of your CV as a tool to help illustrate and communicate your skills. Different needs or goals may call for different tools.

Connect with a recruiter, and upload your CV today to get started on your job search.