How does ATS work?
ATS scans your CV and searches for keywords that match the job description. If the CV doesn't contain enough keywords or is too complicated to format, the system will automatically remove it before anyone can view it.
7 Secrets to Optimizing Your CV for ATS
- Use keywords from the job description: Copy the exact keywords from the job description.
- Simple formatting: Avoid tables, columns, and text boxes – ATS can't read them.
- Standard fonts: Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman, 10–12pt size.
- PDF or DOCX file: Avoid JPG and PNG for your CV.
- Clear file name: "FullName_Position_CV.pdf" instead of "CV_final_v2.pdf".
- Section order: Personal information > Experience > Education > Skills.
- Avoid headers/footers: ATS often ignore content in headers and footers.
"A good CV doesn't need to be visually appealing – it needs to be easy to read, clear, and contain the right keywords. Write your CV for machines to read first, then think about making it look good for humans."
— Tran Van Nam, Career Coach
After passing ATS – What's next?
Once your CV has passed the ATS and reached the actual recruiter, make sure it conveys the value you bring. Use specific figures: "Increase sales by 25% in Q3/2024" instead of "Have sales experience." Recruiters only spend 6–10 seconds reading a CV – make good use of that time.
