Posts
How to Write an ATS-Friendly CV in 2026 | Step-by-Step Guide
How to Write an ATS-Friendly CV in 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Category: Career Advice / CV Tips
Posting Date: 24 September 2026
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.
How to Apply for a Job via Email – A Quick Guide
How to Apply for a Job via Email – A Quick Guide
Career Guide: Email Job Applications
Posting Date: 11th September 2026
Applying for a job by email? Here's how to fill out each field correctly:
🔴 Red Arrow – To Field
Enter the recipient's email address.
Example: hr@companyname.com
🔵 Blue Arrow – Subject Field
State the position you're applying for and your name.
Example: "Application for the Position of Sales Assistant – Elijah Banda"
Always follow any specific subject line instructions given in the job posting.
🟡 Yellow Arrow – Email Body
Keep it short and structured:
- A greeting (e.g., "Dear Hiring Manager,")
- The position you're applying for
- A brief introduction and purpose of the email
- Any other details the job posting requests
Example:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the position of Sales Assistant, as advertised on [platform/website where you saw the ad]. I have attached my CV and cover letter for your review.
I hold [qualification/years of experience] in [relevant field], and I believe my skills and experience make me a strong fit for this role. I am confident that my background in [relevant skill/area] would allow me to contribute effectively to your team.
I look forward to hearing from you and welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further.
Sincerely,
Elijah Banda
[Phone Number]
🟢 Green Arrow – Attachment Icon (Paperclip)
Upload your CV, cover letter, and any other required documents — PDF format only.
Example: Elijah_Banda_CV.pdf, Elijah_Banda_CoverLetter.pdf
🟣 Purple Arrow – Send Button
Tap to send your completed email with attachments.
⚫ Black Arrow – From Field
Use a professional email address in the format "firstname.lastname."
Example: elijah.banda@gmail.com
❌ Don'ts
- Don't use unprofessional email addresses (e.g., coolboy2000@gmail.com).
- Don't leave the subject line blank or vague (e.g., "Job" or "Hi").
- Don't send your CV/cover letter in Word format if PDF is required.
- Don't write a lengthy, unstructured email — keep it brief and to the point.
- Don't forget to attach your documents before hitting send.
- Don't use slang, emojis, or casual language in the email body.
- Don't forget to proofread for spelling and grammar errors before sending.
Need Guidance or Apply for Services?
Reach out to ENB Enterprise for guidance or career-related services.
WhatsApp: +260 969366561
Email: inquiries@enbenterprise.com
Website: www.enbenterprise.com