Applying for a job today is not the same as it was a decade ago. In 2025, over 90% of medium to large companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter CVs. These systems scan resumes for specific information before a recruiter even sees them. If your CV isn’t ATS-friendly, it may never reach human eyes.
Top 10 Tips for Creating an ATS-Friendly CV in 2025
Below are the top 10 most effective tips to help you craft a CV that gets through ATS filters and increases your chances of landing interviews.
1. Keep the Design Simple and Clean
ATS software is designed to read and parse plain text. Avoid complicated designs, graphics, or unusual fonts. Stick to basic formatting and use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Steer clear of columns, tables, and text boxes-they can break your CV in an ATS.
Use bold and capital letters for headings, but don’t over-format. Keep spacing consistent and align all content to the left. This helps the ATS understand the structure of your document.
2. Use Standard Headings
The system looks for common sections like:
- Contact Information
- Professional Summary
- Work Experience
- Education
- Skills
Creative headings such as “Where I’ve Worked” or “My Journey” might confuse the ATS. Stick to language that the software can recognize easily.
3. Integrate Keywords from the Job Posting
Each job advert contains valuable clues. Identify important keywords (skills, tools, qualifications) used in the job description. Make sure these terms appear naturally in your CV.
For example, if the job asks for experience with “digital marketing,” use that exact term rather than a synonym like “online promotions.” This signals to the ATS that you’re a match.
4. Use Recognizable Job Titles
Even if your previous employer used creative titles, replace them with widely understood equivalents. “Customer Experience Guru” may need to become “Customer Service Representative” so that the system can properly categorize your past roles.
You can include the official title in brackets if necessary. For example:
Customer Service Representative (Customer Experience Guru)
5. Choose the Right File Format
Most ATS systems prefer Word documents (.doc or .docx) because they’re easier to parse. Some systems can handle PDFs, but not all. If the job post specifies a format, always use that one. If not, Word is your safest bet.
Read more: 5 Trusts and 5 Myths About CVs: What You Really Need to Know
6. Don’t Put Information in Headers or Footers
Many ATS tools can’t read data placed in headers or footers. Keep your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile in the main body at the top of your document. This ensures they’re picked up and properly parsed.
7. Use Reverse Chronological Order
List your most recent experience first under each section. Most ATS platforms are programmed to expect this format, making it easier for them to interpret your career history.
Also include start and end dates in the same format (e.g., Jan 2021 – Dec 2023). This consistency helps avoid confusion.
8. Spell Out Abbreviations
While acronyms are common in many industries, not all ATS systems recognize them. Include both the full term and the abbreviation when listing technical skills or qualifications:
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
This ensures the system finds the keywords no matter how they’re listed in the job description.
9. Use Bullet Points for Responsibilities and Achievements
Bullet points make your CV easier to read and help the ATS scan through your accomplishments. Start each point with a strong action verb like:
- Managed
- Developed
- Designed
- Implemented
Be clear and specific. For example:
“Managed a team of 5 customer service agents, increasing call resolution rates by 20%.”
10. Include Complete and Updated Contact Information
Ensure your contact details are current and clearly visible at the top of your CV. Include:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Professional email address
- LinkedIn profile (if you have one)
Make sure this information is not inside a header or text box, or the ATS may not detect it.
Also check: Apprenticeships at Ekurhuleni West TVET College (60 Positions)
Creating an ATS-friendly CV in 2025 isn’t about being flashy-it’s about being smart. By using clear formatting, including the right keywords, and avoiding common technical errors, you greatly improve your chances of passing the first hurdle in the recruitment process.
