5 CV Writing Tips to Qualifying Applicant Tracking System (ATS)

Alright, you've found the job of your dreams. Now, all you have to do is submit your CV/resume, answer a few questions, and boom! However, there is still another beast standing between you and that interview, and its name is ATS. You may think that your resume is ready to go, but the applicant tracking system used by the company can eliminate your chances of getting an interview.

We've compiled a list of five CV writing tips by top CV writers in UAE to make sure your resume or CV will get through the ATS.

What is Applicant Tracking System?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) is a software program used by businesses that automatically separates applicants with certain qualifications for a job from those who do not meet those qualifications. Basically, the ATS shrinks the pool of applicants and rejects any and all resumes that are deemed unsuitable for the position, so they never catch the eye of the hiring managers. But we have good news! As promised, we've put together some tips to help you beat the system.

1. Use Standard Resume Headings

Applicant tracking systems are designed to recognize certain standard resume titles when sifting through for relevant information. Here are some suitable titles you can use:

• "professional experience"

• "education"

• "Skills and Training"

2. Customize Your Resume Format

Your resume needs to be formatted in a way that is easy to understand, fast to read, and in a legible font. To achieve this, make sure you place information in chronological order, use a simple font in an easily readable size (we recommend size 10), and create concise bullet points.

3. No Headers or Footers!

This might sound silly to you, but we've seen it! Use no more than 1 inch of margin on your resume, and use the previous tips to keep the information conveniently organized. Using headers and footers not only reduces your margins but also wastes precious space on your single-page resume and confuses applicant tracking systems.

4. Write Out Acronyms

You might think that everyone knows the isomers you know, but trust us, they don't. Before reading this article, do you know what is ATS? Not every abbreviation is as easily recognizable as NYC or USA, so it's important to make sure your employer will know what you're talking about. This tip is especially important if you are changing industries.

5. Use Job Description Keywords

This is a really important tip to follow. If any specific words are found on the application regarding the job description and recommended qualifications, it is important to add this verb to your resume. If ATS is scanning your resume and finds a direct match or strong connection between the wording of the job description and the words of your work experience and education, you will almost always be pushed through to hiring managers.

By following these CV writing tips, your CV will have a better chance qualify the applicant tracking system and into the hands of employers. Don't let silly mistakes that stop you from getting the job of your dreams! You can hire a CV writing service provider to create your professional CV or resume, which will attract so many employers or recruiters.