Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Crafting an ATS-Friendly CV

Writing an ATS (Applicant Tracking System)-friendly CV is crucial in today’s job market. Many employers use ATS software to screen and filter resumes before a human ever lays eyes on them. To increase your chances of passing the initial screening, here are five things you should avoid when writing an ATS-friendly CV.

1. Complex Formatting

ATS software often struggles with intricate formatting elements such as tables, graphs, text boxes, or columns. To ensure your CV is easily parsed by the system, stick to a simple and clean layout. Use a standard font (e.g., Arial, Calibri) and avoid using excessive formatting, such as underlining or italics, as they may confuse the software.

2. Unreadable Fonts and Sizes

Fancy or uncommon fonts can cause issues when the ATS reads your CV. Stick to standard fonts to ensure optimal readability. Similarly, avoid using font sizes that are too small or too large. A font size between 10 and 12 points is generally recommended. Consistency is key when it comes to font and size choices throughout your document.

3. Lack of Keywords

ATS software scans resumes for specific keywords and phrases related to the job description. Tailor your CV to include relevant keywords by carefully reading the job posting and identifying the key skills, qualifications, and experiences the employer is looking for. Incorporate these keywords naturally throughout your CV, particularly in the skills and experience sections.

4. Image-Based Content

ATS software is designed to read and analyze text-based content. Including images, graphics, or logos in your CV can confuse the system and cause it to skip important information. Avoid using images or any visually heavy elements in your resume, as they might not be processed correctly or at all.

5. Lack of Clear Structure and Formatting

A well-structured CV is crucial for both human recruiters and ATS software. Make sure to use appropriate headings and subheadings to organize different sections of your resume, such as Contact Information, Summary/Objective, Work Experience, Education, and Skills. Use bullet points to highlight key achievements and responsibilities in each job or educational experience.

Bonus Tip: Save your CV in a compatible format. When submitting your resume online, save it as a simple and widely compatible file format such as a Microsoft Word document (.doc or .docx) or a plain text file (.txt). Avoid using PDF files, as some ATS software may struggle to read and parse them accurately.

In summary, to create an ATS-friendly CV, focus on simplicity, readability, and keyword optimization. By avoiding complex formatting, unreadable fonts, a lack of keywords, image-based content, and disorganized structure, you can increase your chances of passing the initial screening and making it to the next stage of the hiring process.