How to Create An ATS-Optimized CV/Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you wondering why your CV is never selected and considered for an interview or the next step of the hiring process?

It might be because your current CV isn’t optimized and does not pass the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) recruiters use to shortlist candidates for job openings.

ATS systems have become significant in modern recruitment processes, and understanding them could be your ticket to landing that dream job.

Let’s dive right in and go through everything you need to know about creating ATS-optimized CV today.

What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

ATS is software that sits behind many job boards you use to save your CV online and submit applications. It helps recruiters to collect, sort, scan, and rank applications.

Before diving into the depths of crafting a stellar resume, it’s essential to get acquainted with what the ATS Systems are all about. ATS is a software used by many companies to sort through countless resumes efficiently.

These systems are designed to help recruiters and hiring managers identify the best candidates for a job by analyzing resumes based on certain keywords and criteria.

No more manual screening of CVs, instead, ATS will select and shortlist candidates based on the content of their resumes versus a job description.

Create ATS-Optimized CV

Now, let’s talk about the heart of the ATS Systems – Keywords.

These systems are pretty savvy, filtering resumes by searching for specific keywords that match the job description using algorithms and artificial intelligence.

Hence we always advocate for tailoring your CV for a specific job description, to make sure your resume is packed with relevant keywords that will make the ATS (and the hiring manager) happy.

Formatting Matters

You’ve probably spent hours making your resume look pleasing to impress the next employer. While that’s not a bad thing, ATS systems prefer simplicity over complexity.

Keeping it clean and straightforward is the way to go when it comes to formatting.

Avoid graphics, tables, and complex layouts as they might trip up the system.

Stick to standard fonts and bullet points to present your information clearly.

Tailoring Your CV for Each Job

Yes, we know it sounds like a lot of work, but tailoring your CV for each job application can significantly increase your chances of passing through the ATS Systems successfully.

Compare your ATS-optimized CV/resume with the job description and make sure to incorporate phrases and terms used in the job posting.

Proofread to Perfection

ATS systems are pretty strict about spelling and grammar. A tiny mistake could mean your resume gets tossed in the no-go pile.

Take time to proofread your CV meticulously, ensuring there are no errors that might hinder your chances of making a great first impression, past the ATS screening phase.

Mistakes To Avoid

We mentioned the use of job description keywords in your CV but that doesn’t mean you must stuff your CV content with keywords.

ATS is AI-driven, very smart and you can’t cheat.

If you overload your CV with keywords, your application won’t pass the ATS algorithm.

You also want to avoid these formatting mistakes:

Abbreviations – Never shorten your words, the ATS systems aren’t built to read acronyms. You’d want to use the full word for your work experience, skills, and educational background.

Font types – Avoid fancy fonts if you want your application to pass the ATS system. It was found that Times New Roman and Arial are the most reliable to pass ATS.

You cannot lie in your CV, this would be very bad for you in terms of ATS. If an employer found that you lied and blacklist you, other companies will not find you when they search for candidates on a job board.

Testing Your CV/Resume Against ATS

Before you start sending out your resume, test it against an ATS to see how it fares.

There are several online tools available that can help you do this.

These tools will provide you with insights into how well your resume matches the job description and suggest improvements to increase your chances of getting shortlisted.

Conclusion

Good luck with your job hunt!

Remember, a well ATS-optimized CV/resume can be your golden ticket to landing that dream job. So, make friends with the ATS Systems and let them help guide your career journey to new heights.