Top CV hacks to get past applicant tracking systems (ATS)

Did you know that – in some cases – up to 80% of CVs won’t make it past the first round of screening? Rejection is a natural part of the job-search process, but this doesn’t mean your career should be at the mercy of an algorithm.

While CV reviews are typically carried out by hiring managers, the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) programmes in the hiring arena means it’s possible that a simple formatting error or missing word could see your carefully crafted CV in the rejection pile.

So, when you’re pursuing your next job, how can you make sure your application gets the attention it deserves?

What is an applicant tracking system (ATS)?

It’s no secret that businesses are now embracing AI across various processes, but recruitment stands out as one of the key areas of implementation. In fact, the UK now ranks second when it comes to the use of AI in recruitment – often in the form of ATS tools.

An ATS CV checker is used by employers to streamline the hiring process, rapidly scanning, sorting and ranking thousands of CVs. As applications are submitted, hiring managers can quickly identify the most qualified candidates and move them onto the next stage based on how well they align with the job profile.

While this is hugely helpful for recruiters, it may mean your CV is left by the wayside if you haven’t optimised it. Standing out from the crowd has never been more important in an AI-led hiring world, and knowing how to do so is essential.

Boost your chances of CV success and create an ATS-ready CV with these tips:

Speak the same language as the job spec

Differentiating your CV for a job spec is crucial – especially when yours is being assessed by software that lacks human reasoning, and may not yet be entirely intuitive.

When scanning a CV, an ATS identifies keywords and phrases, assigning a higher score or ranking to that application. CVs that closely match the job requirements are then flagged for further review by human recruiters or hiring managers. But failing to include the right keywords will lower your score, and therefore your chances of being invited to interview.

To show both hiring manages and an ATS that your skills and experience match the specific role advertised, you need to centre your wording around the job description. Keep these keyword pointers in mind when crafting your CV:

• Identify keywords and phrases: match the words used in the job description as closely as possible. These may include technical abilities, soft skills or industry-related terms.
• Use specific terms: applying for a job requiring ‘customer sales experience’? If your CV cites ‘retail experience’, an ATS may not push you through to the next round. Make sure you’re using the same terminology as the job description (without bending the truth, of course).
• Be selective with your experience: an ATS-friendly CV shouldn’t be a list of every professional activity you’ve ever been involved in. If you’ve worked for many years in several different industries, focus on listing the job tiles and industries directly related to the current position.

The key point to remember is that your CV should speak the same language as the job description. Next, it’s time to look at the bigger picture – your CV structure.

Format your CV for an ATS

The structure of your CV has always been an important consideration, but the emergence of ATS tools has made it a necessity.

Optimise your CV layout for an ATS by following these steps:

• Keep it simple: a widely used, easily read font is best – Arial and Times New Roman are safe options. Avoid more obscure fonts or symbols that could throw off an ATS.
• Use traditional subheadings: stick to instantly recognisable examples – such as “Experience”, “Education” or “Skills”, which most ATS tools will be trained to scan for.
• Avoid complex design components: headshots and visuals may show your creative side, but might not be readable by an ATS, and may detract from your key selling points.
• Choose the right file option: you should always upload your CV in the file format specified by the employer. If no request is made, however, then uploading your CV as either a Word document or PDF is usually the safest option. The former may make it easier for an ATS to scan – providing it doesn’t include tables or graphs – but if you’re emailing your CV directly to a recruiter, consider sending both Word and PDF formats.

Don’t let a hiring bot block your career goals

Applying for a new job can be exciting, but equally draining and stressful. To make sure your hard labours don’t go to waste – both in terms of hours poured into your CV or years into your career to-date – taking the time to tune your CV for an ATS could be a crucial investment.

And remember, if you’re concerned about your CV being rejected by an AI scanner, a well-drafted email accompanying your application could be an effective follow-up measure.

For more top tips, download our CV writing guide or create an account on our website, where you can upload your CV, access online learning, manage your saved roles, set up job alerts, and view all your applications in one place.