Did you know that in some cases, your CV might never make it past the first round of screening? Rejection is a natural part of the job-search process, but with the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruitment, your career may not be entirely in the hands of a human recruiter. Instead, an algorithm might be deciding your fate.
While CV reviews are typically conducted by hiring managers, AI-driven systems—specifically Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)—are now a common part of the recruitment process. This means that even a small formatting error or missing keyword could see your CV end up in the rejection pile, no matter how carefully you’ve crafted it.
So, how can you ensure your CV stands out? Here are some tips to help you create an ATS-friendly CV that gets the attention it deserves.
What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?
As AI becomes more integrated into business practices, recruitment is one area that has seen significant transformation. Many employers, for instance, have embraced AI tools in recruitment, with ATS becoming a key part of the hiring process and an essential component of modern hiring processes.
An ATS is a software application that helps employers streamline the hiring process. It can quickly scan, sort, and rank thousands of CVs to identify the most qualified candidates for a particular role. By aligning CVs with job descriptions, the system allows hiring managers to focus on candidates who closely match the role’s requirements.
However, this means that if your CV isn’t optimised for ATS, it could be left behind. Standing out in this AI-driven world requires careful thought about how to craft your CV to pass the initial ATS scan.
How to Optimise Your CV for an ATS
1. Speak the Same Language as the Job Description
When your CV is being assessed by an ATS, it’s looking for specific keywords that match the job description. These keywords can include both hard skills (e.g., software knowledge, technical expertise) and soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork). If your CV doesn’t align with the job specification in terms of language, the ATS might overlook it, regardless of your qualifications.
Here’s how you can make sure your CV speaks the same language:
- Identify keywords and phrases: Look for terms that are mentioned in the job description and incorporate them into your CV. This could be specific skills, certifications, or industry-related jargon.
- Use the exact terminology: For instance, if the job requires “customer sales experience” and you have “retail experience,” make sure to use the exact phrasing to avoid the ATS misinterpreting your expertise.
- Focus on relevant experience: Tailor your CV to highlight your experience that directly aligns with the job role. An ATS-friendly CV isn’t a comprehensive record of everything you’ve done—focus on what’s most relevant to the job you’re applying for.
2. Format Your CV for ATS Compatibility
The structure of your CV is critical in an ATS-driven recruitment environment. Here’s how you can ensure your CV is easy for both the ATS and the hiring manager to navigate:
- Keep it simple: Use a standard, easily readable font like Arial or Times New Roman. Avoid fancy fonts or design elements that could confuse an ATS.
- Stick to traditional subheadings: Use common section titles such as “Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills,” which the ATS is trained to recognize.
- Avoid graphics and images: While these may look visually appealing, they could interfere with the ATS’s ability to scan your CV properly.
- Choose the right file format: When submitting your CV, always use the file format requested by the employer. If no format is specified, Word documents (.docx) or PDFs are the safest bet. Keep in mind that some ATS may have difficulty reading certain types of PDFs, so Word documents are often preferred.
3. Your Career Goals
Applying for a job can be exciting but also stressful. You’ve spent hours perfecting your CV and application, but if you haven’t optimised it for ATS, you may never get the chance to showcase your skills to a human recruiter.
Taking the time to tailor your CV for ATS is an investment that could increase your chances of landing that crucial first interview. And don’t forget—if you’re concerned about your CV being overlooked by an ATS, following up with a well-crafted email to the hiring manager could be an effective way to make a lasting impression.
With AI and ATS tools becoming a standard part of recruitment in Cyprus, ensuring your CV is optimised for these systems is essential for standing out in today’s job market. By following these simple yet effective tips, you’ll give yourself the best chance of moving on to the next stage of the hiring process.
