Writing a CV today is a different ballgame from just a decade ago. With most job applications now submitted digitally, the CV submission process has become highly automated, and applicant tracking systems (ATS) are at the heart of this change. Understanding why writing an ATS-Friendly CV is vital for your job search is essential. Studies show that only 25% of CVs submitted get past the ATS and are reviewed by a hiring manager or recruiter. This means 75% of applications are automatically filtered out - often for reasons unrelated to the applicant’s skills or experience.
What is an ATS?
An Applicant Tracking System is software companies use to manage high volumes of applications during the hiring process. It scans CVs to determine whether they meet the job's requirements, ranking them based on factors like keywords, formatting, and relevance. This saves recruiters time by narrowing down applications, but it also means that if your CV isn’t correctly formatted or doesn’t include the right terms, it may never make it through.
How to Write an ATS-Friendly CV
Creating an ATS-compliant CV requires some key considerations:
1. Use the Right Keywords
Tailor your CV for each job by incorporating specific keywords from the job description. These could include skills, job titles, certifications, or tools mentioned in the posting. For example, if the job requires “project management” or “data analysis,” make sure those exact terms appear naturally in your CV.
2. Stick to Simple Formatting
While fancy templates and creative designs may look impressive, they can confuse an ATS. Use a clean, professional layout with standard fonts like Arial or Calibri. Avoid tables, text boxes, or graphics, as many ATS systems are unable to interpret them correctly.
3. Focus on Clarity and Structure
Clearly label sections with headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” Ensure your CV follows a logical structure so both the ATS and a human recruiter can easily navigate it.
4. Quantify Your Achievements
Use action verbs and measurable outcomes to highlight your experience. Phrases like “increased sales by 20%” or “led a team of 10 employees” not only demonstrate your impact but also align with the data-driven focus of ATS systems.
5. Choose the Right File Format
Submit your CV in a Word document (.docx) unless the job posting specifies otherwise. While PDFs are visually appealing, they’re not always ATS-friendly, especially with the older systems.
6. Don’t Overuse Keywords
While keywords are important, avoid “keyword stuffing.” ATS systems are smart enough to flag unnatural repetition and could rank your CV lower as a result.
Why It Matters
Your CV is your first impression with a potential employer, and ensuring it is ATS-compliant is the key to getting it noticed. By tailoring your CV with the right keywords, maintaining clear formatting, and aligning it with modern hiring processes, you significantly boost your chances of making it to the next stage.
In today’s competitive job market, understanding how an ATS works gives your application the best chance to move forward, allowing your skills and experience to speak for themselves.
Need Help with Your CV?
At The CV Studio, they specialise in creating CVs that not only pass through ATS systems but also showcase your skills and experience in the best possible way. With years of experience in understanding what works and what doesn’t, Sarah can help you put together a CV that gets results.
