How to write an ATS-friendly CV
Simple rules for a CV that applicant tracking systems can read and recruiters want to shortlist, plus a free CV builder.
Many employers use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to scan CVs before a person reads them. If the system can't read yours, it may never reach a recruiter.
Keep the layout simple
- Use one column, standard fonts and clear section headings: Profile, Experience, Education, Skills.
- Avoid tables, text boxes, icons and images for important information.
- Save as a text-based PDF, not a scanned image.
Write for the job
- Use the same keywords as the job advert, such as the job title and key skills, where they're true for you.
- List experience newest first, with job title, employer, dates and 3 to 5 achievement-focused bullets.
- Show results with numbers: "cut invoice processing time by 40%" beats "responsible for invoices".
- Keep it to one or two pages for most roles.
Check before you send
- Spelling, dates and contact details
- A professional email address
- A short profile tailored to the role
Our free CV builder uses ATS-friendly templates and downloads a clean PDF with no watermark.
