Most companies today recruit using online recruitment systems. These systems, most commonly known as “Applicant Tracking System” (ATS), are used by recruiters. While some of them require you to capture specific information manually, many still require you to attach and submit your CV in order to complete your job application. What is an ATS, and how can a job seeker tailor one’s CV to make it more compatible with such systems?

Application Tracking Systems are software tools used by many companies to automate and manage their recruitment process. The ATS works by automating the initial screening of CVs, thereby enabling recruiters to quickly sort through large volumes of applications and identify the candidates that best fit the job advertised.

ATS software carries this out by scanning your CV for specific keywords and phrases that match the job description. These keywords normally relate to, or relfect the skills, experiences, and qualifications that the employer is looking for in a candidate. If your CV includes these keywords, then it will rank higher in the ATS and will be more likely to move to the next stage of the recruitment process by being reviewed by the actual recruiter.

Proofread your CV carefully: Spelling and grammar errors can hurt your chances of making it past the initial screening, so make sure your CV is error-free before submitting it.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of making it past the initial screening process and getting your CV seen by a human recruiter. Keep in mind that while it’s important to optimize your CV for ATS, it’s equally important to ensure that it’s well-written and tailored to the specific job you’re applying for. By striking this balance, you’ll be well on your way to landing your next job.

While CV and Resume templates and layouts are good and pleasant to the recruiter’s eye, they do not cut it at first-level screening especially where Application Tracking Systems stand between the job seeker and the human recruiter. Keep it simple.

To ensure that your CV meets the expectations of the Applicant Tracking Systems, keep in mind the following tips:

1. ALWAYS use the job description for the advertised role as a guide: Review the job description carefully and make sure your CV includes the skills and experiences that the employer is looking for.
2. Incorporate relevant keywords into your CV and use similar language as reflected in the job description, to describe your past experiences.
3. Use a clear and simple format, preferrably simple text: ATS software may have trouble parsing complicated or unusual formats like tables, text-boxes and text blocks that have been converted to pictures. Therefore, you should stick to a simple and easy-to-read layout. Use standard headings for each section of your CV and avoid using text-boxes, images or graphics.
4. Avoid using abbreviations or acronyms: ATS software may not recognize industry-specific abbreviations or acronyms, so spell out any technical terms or jargon in your CV.
5. Proofread your CV carefully: Spelling and grammar errors can hurt your chances of making it past the initial screening, so make sure your CV is error-free before submitting it.

Follow these tips to increase your chances of making it past the initial ATS screening process and getting your CV physically seen by a human recruiter. In addition to optimizing your CV for ATS, it is equally important to ensure that it’s tailored to the specific job you are applying for, and it is well-written. By striking this balance, you’ll be well on your way to landing your next job.

You can seek support getting your CV reviewed. Coach Andeh gives you an opportunity to do a 5-MINUTE FREE VERBAL CV review. After that review, you can decide whether you want to have a paid extensive review or whether you can complete the review by yourself.

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