It is true that applying for jobs is not as easy as it used to be. You hit 'submit' on your perfectly polished and creative CV and hear nothing from the recruiter. Why does this happen? Enter the Applicant Tracking System (ATS), the gatekeeper standing between you and your dream job.
An ATS CV is a document optimized for ATS software, which is used by companies to filter, scan, and rank job applications before a recruiter reviews them.
By 2025, these systems are smarter than ever, scanning resumes faster and filtering out candidates who don’t tick all the boxes. In the era of AI and smart tools, it is important to understand how much you can rely on these systems. First, let's get to know how ATS works.
1. Think Like the ATS
First things first: what exactly is an ATS looking for? These systems aren’t reading your resume like a human—they’re scanning it for keywords, structure, and relevance. So, if you want to make it past the digital bouncer, you need to speak its language.
Start by reading the job description. What skills, qualifications, or phrases does the employer emphasize? If they mention “project management,” “team collaboration,” or “data-driven decision-making,” input those exact terms throughout your CV. (Don't overload your resume with keywords or false information–It might help you get through the ATS, but it could make a bad impression on recruiters later.)
2. Keep It Clean and Simple
Now, let’s talk design. Yes, we all love creative resumes with fancy graphics and custom fonts. But guess what? These aesthetics don’t have an impact on the ATS—it cares about readability.
- Use a standard font like Arial, Cambria, Calibri, or Tahoma.
- Keep the font size between 10-12 points.
- Save your CV as a .docx or .pdf (check the job posting for specific requirements).
- Use clear section headings such as Work Experience, Education, and Skills. (Avoid terms like synopsis and work exposure.)
- Avoid tables, text boxes, images, and graphics that may confuse the ATS.
- Consider linking to your LinkedIn profile or portfolio website if applicable.
- Left-align your text and use bullet points for readability.
- It shouldn’t be a lengthy document. Read here to know how long should be your CV.
And here’s a pro tip: save your CV as a .docx file unless the application specifies otherwise. PDFs can sometimes throw off older ATS platforms, and you don’t want your masterpiece getting lost in translation.
Read Also: CV vs Resume – What’s the Difference?
3. Tailor, Don’t Copy-Paste
Imagine walking into a store with no idea what to purchase. Sounds ridiculous, right? Yet so many people send the same generic resume to every job they apply for. In 2025, that approach just isn't going to work.
Yes, it's going to take time for each submission, but you need to tailor your CV for each role. Highlight the experiences and skills that align most closely with the job description. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing role, focus on your campaign successes and the tools you’ve mastered—not unrelated technical expertise. This targeted approach shows both the ATS and the recruiter that you’re serious about the role.
4. Structure Your CV Like a Pro
A well-structured CV isn’t just ATS-friendly—it also makes it easier for recruiters to scan quickly. Stick to this format:
i. Contact Information
Make sure this is front and center:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Professional email address
- LinkedIn profile (if applicable)
- Portfolio or website (if relevant to your field)
ii. Professional Summary
Start strong with a 3-4 line summary that highlights your experience, skills, and major achievements. Think of it as your elevator pitch.
iii. Work Experience
- List jobs in reverse chronological order (most recent first).
- Include job title, company name, location, and dates of employment.
- Use bullet points to describe your achievements and responsibilities.
iv. Skills Section
Create a dedicated section for both hard and soft skills that match the job description. Examples:
- Hard Skills: Data analysis, Python, SEO optimization, CRM software.
- Soft Skills: Leadership, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving.
v. Education & Certifications
- Degree and field of study
- University/Institution name
- Year of graduation
- Relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, Google Analytics, AWS Certified Solutions Architect)
vi. Additional Sections (if relevant)
- Volunteer Experience: Show leadership and community involvement.
- Languages: List languages and proficiency levels.
- Awards & Publications: Highlight notable achievements.
5. Quantify your impact
Numbers tell stories, and stories sell. Instead of vague statements like “improved team performance,” quantify your achievements. Did you boost sales? Cut costs? Streamline processes? Share the specifics:
- Resolved 90+ customer inquiries daily, improving satisfaction scores by 20%.
- Reduced project turnaround time by 15%, saving $15,000 annually.
These metrics grab attention and give recruiters a clear picture of your impact. Plus, they signal to the ATS that you’re results-driven.
6. Avoid These ATS Mistakes
Want to stay ahead of the competition? Avoid these common mistakes:
- No headers or footers—ATS might not read them.
- No fancy fonts, colors, or elaborate styling—keep it clean.
- No copy-pasting job descriptions—tailor your CV naturally.
- No images, charts, or logos—ATS ignores them.
- Check for typos and formatting errors—small mistakes can cost you big.
7. Test Before You Submit
After all of the efforts, do yourself a favor and test your CV. Tools like Jobscan or Resumego.net can simulate how an ATS will interpret your document, flagging areas for improvement. And don’t skip proofreading! Even small typos can ruin your chances.
Key Takeaways
Crafting an ATS-friendly isn’t about tricks—it’s about smart formatting. By combining strategic optimization with authentic storytelling, you’ll create a resume that speaks to both machines and humans. By following these steps, your CV will not only pass the ATS scan but also impress human recruiters.
If you’re looking to hire an expert to work on your ATS CV, feel free to contact us here.