Most job applications today are screened by software before a human ever sees them. This software, called an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), scans your CV for keywords, formatting, and structure, and rejects up to 75% of CVs before a recruiter looks at them.

If you've been applying to jobs and hearing nothing back, your CV may never have reached a human. Here's how to fix that.

What Is an ATS and Why It Matters

An ATS is software employers use to collect, sort, and rank job applications automatically. It looks for specific keywords from the job description, checks your formatting, and scores your CV before ranking it against other applicants.

A well-written CV can still get rejected by an ATS simply because of poor formatting, not because you're unqualified.

1. Use a Simple, Single-Column Format

Avoid tables, text boxes, columns, headers/footers, and graphics. ATS software reads top to bottom, left to right. Multi-column layouts and design elements often get scrambled or skipped entirely.

Stick to:

• Standard fonts such as Arial, Calibri, and Georgia.
• Clear section headings such as Experience, Education, and Skills.
• .docx or PDF. Check the job posting, as some ATS prefer one format over the other.

2. Mirror the Job Description's Keywords

ATS software ranks CVs by keyword match. Pull key terms directly from the job posting, including job titles, required skills, tools, and certifications, and use the same phrasing in your CV.

Example: If the job says "project management", don't write "managed projects." Use the exact phrase "project management" somewhere in your CV.

3. Use Standard Section Headings

ATS software is trained to recognize common headings. Stick to:

• Professional Summary
• Work Experience
• Education
• Skills
• Certifications

Avoid creative alternatives like "My Journey" or "What I Bring". The system may not categorize that content correctly.

4. Quantify Your Achievements

Recruiters and increasingly AI screening tools respond to numbers. Instead of:

"Responsible for sales in my region"

Write:

"Grew regional sales by 32% in 12 months, generating an additional $45,000 in revenue"

5. Save With a Clean File Name

Name your file FirstName-LastName-CV.docx, not Resume_final_v3_NEW.docx. Some ATS systems index the file name too.

6. Test Before You Submit

Paste your CV text into a plain text editor. If the formatting turns into a jumbled mess, an ATS will likely read it the same way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every company use an ATS?

Most mid-size to large companies do, especially those receiving high application volumes. Smaller businesses may review CVs manually.

Can I still use a creative CV design?

Save creative or highly designed CVs for networking or direct email applications where a human reviews it first, rather than online application portals.

How many keywords should I include?

Include enough keywords to naturally reflect the job description. Don't keyword-stuff, as recruiters read the CV after it passes the ATS.

Need Your CV Professionally Optimized?

ENB Enterprise's CV writing service helps rebuild and optimize CVs for ATS screening while presenting your experience clearly and professionally.