How to write an ATS-friendly CV

An ATS-friendly resume is designed to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by employers during recruitment. These systems scan resumes for keywords and formats to filter applicants. To increase your chances of getting noticed, it’s essential to create an ATS-compatible resume that highlights your skills and experience. For ATS-friendly resume examples and to create a perfect resume for your job application, try using ToolResume.

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Optimize with Keywords

An ATS software resume filters candidates based on specific keywords. Research job descriptions and include relevant terms that match your skills. Using an ATS-optimized resume can significantly increase your chances of passing the system.

Optimize with Keywords

Keep Formatting Simple

ATS systems struggle with complex formatting. Avoid graphics, tables, and unusual fonts to ensure your resume is easily readable by the software. A good resume prioritizes clarity and structure.

Keep Formatting Simple

Use Standard Headings

ATS software looks for standard section headings like "Work Experience" and "Education." Avoid creative headings that the system might not recognize, as this can cause important details to be missed.

Use Standard Headings

How Do You Write an ATS-Friendly Resume?

Writing an ATS-friendly resume requires careful attention to both content and format. ATS software is designed to filter resumes based on keywords, structure, and readability. To ensure your resume makes it through, follow these guidelines:

  1. Use Clear and Descriptive Job Titles: Avoid using creative job titles that might confuse ATS systems. Stick to standard, descriptive titles that accurately represent your role and responsibilities, ensuring the system properly matches your experience with job requirements.

  2. Optimize for Readability: Keep your CV easy to read with clear fonts, bullet points, and straightforward formatting. Avoid columns or text boxes that can be misinterpreted by ATS software. Focus on a logical, linear layout that flows naturally.

  3. Submit Your CV in the Right File Format: Some ATS systems may have trouble reading certain file formats. The safest choice is usually to submit your CV as a .doc or .docx file, as these formats are commonly recognized by ATS. PDF files can sometimes cause issues with parsing text, so unless otherwise specified, it’s best to avoid submitting your CV in that format.

Following these steps will help you create an ATS-compatible resume that improves your chances of getting through the screening process. If you're unsure how to format your resume, look at ATS-friendly resume examples and use tools like ToolResume to guide you through the process, ensuring your resume is tailored to both recruiters and ATS software alike.

Best practices and mistakes to avoid for an ATS-friendly resume

3 Best Practices for Writing an ATS-Friendly Resume

Use Industry-Specific Keywords

Stick to Simple Formatting

Label Sections Clearly

3 Mistakes to Avoid for an ATS-Friendly Resume

Using Graphics or Images

Overstuffing Keywords

Skipping a Proofread

5 Basics for an ATS-Friendly CV

01

Use Relevant Keywords

Tailor your resume with industry-specific keywords to match the job description and increase your chances of passing through the ATS filter.

02

Keep Formatting Simple

Stick to standard fonts and bullet points, avoiding tables, graphics, or fancy designs that may confuse ATS software.

03

Use Standard Section Headings

Label sections with common titles like "Work Experience" and "Education" to ensure the ATS can recognize key parts of your resume.

04

Maintain a Consistent Work History

Ensure that your work history is presented in reverse chronological order with no unexplained gaps. ATS systems often prioritize candidates with a clear and consistent career progression.

05

Customize Each Application

Adjust your resume for each job application to include relevant keywords and details, enhancing your resume’s compatibility with the ATS.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ATS-friendly CV?

An ATS-friendly CV is specifically formatted to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), which scan resumes for keywords, structure, and readability, filtering out those that don't meet certain criteria.

Why is an ATS-friendly CV important?

Many companies use ATS software to streamline recruitment. If your CV isn’t compatible with the system, it may be rejected before a human recruiter ever sees it, reducing your chances of being shortlisted.

How do I make my CV ATS-compatible?

To create an ATS-friendly resume, use relevant keywords from job descriptions, simple formatting without graphics or tables, and standard headings like "Experience" and "Education" to ensure ATS can read it properly.

Can I use creative designs in an ATS-friendly CV?

It’s best to avoid creative designs for ATS purposes. While visually appealing resumes might impress recruiters, fancy fonts, graphics, and tables can confuse ATS software, causing your resume to be rejected.