You have applied for 20 jobs, updated your CV several times and still haven’t received an interview invitation. Before blaming your qualifications, consider something else: recruiters may not even be seeing your CV.
Many employers now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to organise applications and search for suitable candidates. But contrary to popular belief, these systems do not automatically reject every CV that fails to meet some secret formatting rules.
Sometimes, your CV simply isn’t being read properly or doesn’t appear when a recruiter searches for particular skills.
Your beautiful CV could be the problem
That colourful CV with multiple columns, tables, graphics and fancy designs may impress your friends but confuse recruitment software.
Some systems struggle to read information placed inside text boxes, headers, footers and complicated layouts. A scanned PDF can also cause problems because it may contain an image rather than readable text.
Keep your CV simple. Use clear headings, readable fonts and a straightforward layout. Put your contact details where they can easily be found.
The words you use matter
Imagine an employer searching for a video editor. Your CV says you are good at making videos but never mentions video editing.
You may have the experience, but your CV might not appear in the recruiter’s search.
Read the job advertisement carefully. Include relevant skills, qualifications and job titles in your CV, provided they accurately describe your experience.
Don’t stuff your CV with every keyword you find. Make sure the words reflect what you can actually do.
Three things to do before your next application
- Keep your CV simple and avoid unnecessary graphics and complicated designs.
- Use relevant keywords from the job advertisement naturally.
- Copy your CV into Notepad. If the information appears scattered or missing, correct the formatting before submitting it.
Also, follow the employer’s instructions on whether to submit a Word document or PDF.
An ATS-friendly CV does not guarantee an interview, but a poorly arranged one could make it harder for recruiters to find you.
Stop worrying about beating the recruitment robot. Start making it easier for employers to see what you bring to the table.
Your CV may be your first introduction to an employer. Make sure it doesn’t speak a language the recruiter cannot understand.
