What makes a CV ATS compliant?

Evelyn sat at her desk, surrounded by a pile of CVs. As a seasoned CV writing expert at Corporate Staffing, she had seen it all—documents bursting with potential yet held back by one crucial flaw: they were not ATS compliant. Her latest client, John, a talented software engineer, had struggled to land interviews despite his impressive skills. This situation was common to her; many clients were unaware of what makes a CV ATS compliant.

John’s CV was eye-catching but didn’t pass through the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) used by many companies. Evelyn knew this was a common pitfall. To help John and others like him, she needed to ensure they understood what makes a CV ATS compliant. First, she explained to John that an ATS is a software tool employers use to filter applications. Many CVs are never seen by human eyes because they don’t align with the system’s requirements.

What makes a CV ATS compliant?

1. Clean, Simple Format

Evelyn highlighted the importance of using a clean, simple format. Decorative fonts and complex designs often confuse ATS software, leading to automatic rejections. Instead, she advised John to use standard fonts like Arial or Times New Roman and to organize his information clearly, using headings like “Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” This approach ensures that the ATS can easily parse the document.

2. Keywords

Next, Evelyn focused on keywords, explaining to John that understanding what makes a CV ATS compliant involves tailoring the CV to each job description. Employers use specific terms to describe their ideal candidates and ATS scans for these keywords. Evelyn advised John to incorporate relevant skills and experiences from the job posting directly into his CV. By doing this, John would increase his chances of passing the initial ATS screening.

3. Avoid Graphics And Images

Evelyn also pointed out the importance of avoiding graphics and images, which are not what makes a CV ATS compliant. These elements are typically not readable by ATS and can lead to essential information being overlooked. She suggested replacing visual charts with written descriptions and ensuring that all details are in text form.

Finally,

After making these changes, John’s CV was finally ready. With Evelyn’s guidance on what makes a CV ATS compliant, he soon began receiving interview calls. Seeing John’s success, Evelyn felt fulfilled, knowing she had helped another client navigate the complex world of modern job applications.

Do you find yourself in a similar situation and struggling to get your CV noticed? Consider seeking professional help. Sign up for our CV writing service at Corporate Staffing to ensure your application is not just seen, but also makes an impact.