Learn how to optimise your CV for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to increase your chances of landing an interview in...
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Why does my CV need to be ATS optimised?
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When applying for a job, your CV is your first chance to make a good impression on a potential employer. However, with the rise of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), it’s more important than ever to ensure that your CV is optimized for these automated systems.
Table of Contents
WHAT IS AN ATS (AUTOMATIC TRACKING SYSTEM)?
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is a software application that enables the electronic handling of recruitment needs. It is often used by employers to manage resumes and job applications, track and sort candidates, and communicate with applicants. ATS systems can parse resumes, store them in a database, and automatically rank and score candidates based on certain criteria. The goal of an ATS is to make the recruitment process more efficient and effective by automating time-consuming tasks and allowing for easy tracking and management of candidates.
Some of the key features of an ATS include:
- Resume parsing: This is the process of extracting information from resumes and storing it in a database. The ATS can automatically identify key information such as contact details, work experience, education, and skills, and make this data searchable.
- Job posting: An ATS allows employers to post job openings to multiple job boards and websites from a single location. This can save time and ensure that all job postings have a consistent format.
- Applicant tracking: The ATS can track the status of each applicant, including which job they applied for, when they applied, and what stage of the process they are currently in. This can help recruiters keep track of a large number of candidates and ensure that no one falls through the cracks.
- Search and filtering: An ATS allows recruiters to search for candidates based on certain criteria, such as keywords, location, or education level. This can help them quickly identify the most qualified candidates for a particular job.
- Communication: An ATS can automate the sending of emails and messages to candidates, such as confirming receipt of their application or scheduling an interview.
HOW DO YOU WRITE A CV THAT IS ATS OPTIMISED?
- Use a simple format: Avoid using fancy formatting or graphics, as these can confuse the ATS and make it difficult for it to parse your information. Stick to a simple, easy-to-read format such as Times New Roman or Arial font, and use standard headings such as “Education” and “Work Experience.”
- Use keywords: Make sure your CV includes relevant keywords for the job you’re applying for. Use the same language as the job description, and include industry-specific terms and phrases.
- Tailor your CV: Customize your CV for each job you apply for, highlighting the most relevant experience and skills.
- Avoid tables or graphics: Many ATS cannot read tables or graphics, so avoid using them in your CV.
- Use clear headings: Use clear, descriptive headings that match the job posting. This can help the ATS understand the content of your CV and match it to the right job.
- Include your contact information: Make sure your contact information is prominently displayed and easy to find. This can make it easy for a human recruiter to reach out to you if your CV is selected by the ATS.
- Save your CV in a compatible format: Save your CV in a format that is compatible with the ATS, such as .doc, .docx, or .pdf, to avoid any issues with file conversion.
WHY OPTIMISE MY CV FOR ATS?
An ATS is a software application that enables the electronic handling of recruitment needs. It is used by many employers to manage resumes and job applications, track and sort candidates, and communicate with applicants. The ATS scans resumes and ranks them based on certain criteria, making it easier for recruiters to find the most qualified candidates.
However, if your CV is not optimized for an ATS, it may be overlooked and never even reach the hands of a human recruiter. That’s why it’s crucial to understand how to write a CV that is ATS-optimized.
The first step in writing an ATS-optimized CV is to use a simple format. Avoid using fancy formatting or graphics, as these can confuse the ATS and make it difficult for it to parse your information. Stick to a simple, easy-to-read format such as Times New Roman or Arial font, and use standard headings such as “Education” and “Work Experience.”
Next, use keywords that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. The ATS scans resumes for specific keywords, so make sure your CV includes the same language as the job description, and include industry-specific terms and phrases. This will increase the chances of your CV being selected by the ATS and reaching the hands of a human recruiter.
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It’s also important to tailor your CV for each job you apply for. Highlighting the most relevant experience and skills will increase the chances of your CV being selected by the ATS and matching the job you are applying for.
Make sure your contact information is prominently displayed and easy to find. This can make it easy for a human recruiter to reach out to you if your CV is selected by the ATS. Lastly, save your CV in a format that is compatible with the ATS, such as .doc, .docx, or .pdf, to avoid any issues with file conversion.
ATS systems are becoming increasingly popular among employers, and it’s important to understand how to write a CV that is optimized for these systems. By following the tips mentioned above, you can increase the chances that your CV will be selected by the ATS and make it to the hands of a human recruiter for further evaluation. This will give you a better chance of getting an interview and ultimately landing the job you desire. Don’t underestimate the importance of writing an ATS-optimized CV, as it can make all the difference in your job search.
DO YOU NEED HELP OPTIMISING YOUR CV FOR ATS?
I have spent the last 10 years supporting companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies to find and the best talent around the world.
During this time, I have:
Scanned and reviewed more than 26000 CVs.
For the past 4 years I have been producing professionally written CVs for job seekers who have secured new roles across 3 continents.
Are you interested in working with me?
Best of luck,
Dave Crumby
Your Career Optimiser | Certified CV Writer
Winner of Most Supportive Career Branding Service 2022
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