An applicant tracking system (ATS) is software that stores candidate CVs or resumes in a database that recruiters use to shortlist candidates. A recruiter typically receives more than 100 applicants per job advertised, so they utilize ATS to recruit the right candidate. A well-written ATS CV friendly is essential if you want to land your next role. Moreover, having a format with ATS friendly is more likely to be called for an interview.

There are many factors to make your CV ATS-friendly. To write a CV, resume, or cover letter ATS friendly, eliminating unnecessary things is crucial. To get you started, here are four essential tips you can do to beat your job application and ensure your application performs well every time. 

1.) Only apply for jobs and roles you are qualified for

The easiest way to make it through the ATS is to apply for roles you qualify for as the ATS might otherwise decline your application. Submitting your application for a certain job, role, and its description that parallels your profile (professional experience, education, achievements, and references will organically attract you to the tracking system.  

2.) Use selected relevant keywords and connect to your unique experience.

Understand the role description and use the same keywords in your application in a way that spotlights your experience, skills, and strengths. Make a note of specific descriptions that a job posting mentions. Think about your outstanding experience and describe how it makes you the best candidate. When you integrate these keywords into your resume, you essentially match the roles you apply for. 

3.) Avoid the bungle

You may want to make a positive attitude or brand on your CV, and it’s common to list the things that make you an amazing candidate – your eagerness to learn, ambitious mindset, and your outstanding work ethic. However, recruiters infrequently look for any of these terms, so remove them and focus on your skills and qualifications instead to enhance you to beat the bots.

4.) Use basic language & keep it simple.

You may be tempted to create a graphically magnified CV, but as a recruitment agency that typically reads hundreds of CVs daily, it is best to keep your CV as simple as possible. Flashy templates with logos, background design, photos, or animation simply detract from your essence and make your application confusing to read. Consider using a universal format font such as Times New Roman or Arial and use bullet points or bolded to bring attention to something specific.

If you're struggling to beat the ATS or would like to learn more about ATS, you can check out our delicate recruiter's talk about ATS, their experience, and tips in one episode of the podcast here.

Or, if you want to improve your CV plus consult with an experienced recruiter; Great things we can help you! Feel free to contact our professional recruiter, and we will shortly get in touch with you.