75-90% of CVs get filtered out by Applicant Tracking Systems before reaching recruiters. These ATS friendly CV tips will help you beat the system and make your CV both ATS-compatible and human-friendly.

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Table of Contents

1. What is ATS?
2. Why ATS Alignment Matters
3. How ATS Reads Your Resume
4. Essential ATS Friendly CV Tips for Optimization
5. File Format: What Should You Choose?
6. Professional File Naming
7. Final Steps for Success
8. CV or Resume? Understanding the Difference
9. Your Next Steps

1. What is ATS?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software that many employers use to scan, sort, and rank resumes and CVs. Think of it as a digital gatekeeper that acts as the first filter between you and the recruiter. If your CV isn't ATS-friendly, it may never reach human eyes—even if you're a strong candidate.

2. Why ATS Alignment Matters

The statistics are sobering:

• 75–90% of resumes get filtered out by ATS before a recruiter sees them
• The ATS scans for keywords, formatting, and structure that match the job description
• A properly aligned resume significantly increases your chances of reaching the shortlist for interviews

3. How ATS Reads Your Resume

Understanding how ATS technology works is crucial for optimization. Here's what happens behind the scenes:

1. Formatting & Structure (Readability)

• Uses standard headings like "Experience," "Education," "Skills"
• Reads simple text left to right—tables, graphics, or fancy layouts may break parsing
• Prefers .docx or simple PDF files (always check the job posting for format requirements)

2. Content & Keywords (Relevance)

• Matches your wording to the job posting (e.g., "project management" vs. "program coordination")
• Recognizes both hard skills (e.g., Python, budget forecasting) and soft skills (e.g., leadership, communication)
• Looks for both acronyms and full forms (e.g., "SEO (Search Engine Optimization)")
• Scores higher when achievements are quantified

4. Essential ATS Friendly CV Tips for Optimization

Structure & Format

• Use clear, standard section headings ("Experience," "Education," "Skills")
• Stick to common fonts (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman)
• Avoid text boxes, tables, graphics, columns, and unusual symbols
• Do not place key information in headers or footers
• Save in the requested file format—.docx is safest, PDF only if explicitly allowed

Keywords & Content

• Tailor your CV to each job description
• Mirror the employer's exact wording for skills and responsibilities
• Include both hard skills and soft skills
• Use both acronyms and full terms where applicable
• Write bullet points with measurable results (e.g., "Increased sales by 20% in 6 months")
• Spread keywords naturally throughout the CV, not just in a skills list
• Avoid keyword-stuffing—keep it natural and readable for humans

5. File Format: What Should You Choose?

Best choice: .docx (Microsoft Word) – safest for ATS parsing and universally accepted

PDF: Only if the job posting explicitly allows it. While PDFs keep formatting intact, some older ATS systems may not read them correctly.

Avoid: .pages, .odt, .rtf, or image-based PDFs — ATS may not read them properly.

Rule of thumb: Unless told otherwise, submit as .docx.

6. Professional File Naming

Your file name is part of your first impression. Recruiters often download CVs and resumes and share them internally—a clear, professional name ensures your document won't get lost. These ATS friendly CV tips include proper file naming.

Best Practices

• Include your full name
• Add the word "Resume" or "CV"
• Optionally, include the job title or company name
• Keep it simple—no spaces, special characters, or version numbers
• Use Title Case for a clean, professional appearance

Examples of Good File Names

• Jane_Doe_Resume.docx
• Jane_Doe_ProjectManager_Resume.docx
• Jane_Doe_Resume_Google.docx

Examples to Avoid

• resume_final_version2.pdf
• my_resume.docx
• JD12345.docx

7. Final Steps for Success

• Test your CV with a free ATS scanner (e.g., Jobscan, Resumeworded, or TopResume)
• Double-check spelling and consistency—ATS may miss keywords with typos
• Keep your resume concise: ideally 1 page (entry to mid-level) or 2 pages (senior/executive)

Think of ATS alignment like SEO for your resume:

• Use the right keywords
• Ensure clean structure for parsing
• Optimize for both machines and humans

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8. CV or Resume? Understanding the Difference

If you're applying for jobs internationally, you may notice two different terms: CV and resume. While they both describe a document that outlines your experience and qualifications, usage varies by location.

In Europe (and much of the world): The term "CV" (short for curriculum vitae) is standard.

In the United States and Canada: The term "resume" is preferred. It serves the same purpose as a European CV and should be concise (1–2 pages). In North America, "CV" is reserved for academic, research, or medical contexts, where the document can be several pages long and include publications, presentations, and detailed academic history.

In practice: For most job seekers outside of academia, a CV and a resume mean essentially the same thing—a short, tailored document that markets your skills, experience, and education to potential employers.

9. Your Next Steps

Finding the right job can be challenging, but every strong application brings you closer to your goal. Remember, your resume is more than a document—it's your introduction and your chance to show how your experience fits what an employer needs. Approach the process with patience, persistence, and confidence.

Need support with job searching or interviewing in English? We're here to help you present yourself at your very best. Learn more about how we help non-native English speakers succeed in their career goals with Job Interview Coaching.

In partnership with the Gemeente Amsterdam and RMT, The English Center supports low-income job seekers—many of whom are expats or newcomers—aiming for roles in the English-speaking market. The process begins with a personal intake to understand each client’s goals, followed by tailored support in CV and cover letter writing, and English job interview practice. This program is highly effective, with a success rate of approximately 90%. Read more about The English Center's work with the Gemeente Amsterdam.

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Authors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, MA, Director, The English Center and Alexandra Roberts, BA, English trainer.