Creating a CV that can successfully pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is now a must for anyone applying for jobs in the UK. These systems are used by most employers to screen CVs before a human recruiter ever sees them, so understanding how to make your CV readable by ATS is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down what ATS looks for, common mistakes to avoid, and practical tips to boost your chances of getting noticed. Whether you’re updating your CV yourself or working with Top CV Writers UK to refine your document, these strategies will help you stand out in the competitive UK job market.
What Is an ATS and Why It Matters
Applicant Tracking Systems are software tools that parse, sort, and rank candidate CVs based on how well they match a job description. Essentially, an ATS “reads” your CV before a real person does. If your CV isn’t formatted correctly or doesn’t contain relevant keywords from the job posting, it might never get seen by a recruiter. These systems look for specific information like job titles, skills, and dates in a format they understand, so your document needs to be both machine-readable and recruiter-friendly.
Key Elements of an ATS-Friendly CV
1. Choose a Simple, Standard Format (H2)
ATS software works best with clear, traditional CV structures.
Here’s how to optimise your layout:
- Reverse-Chronological Format – List your work experience from most recent to oldest.
- Standard Headings – Use clear labels like Work Experience, Education, and Skills so the ATS recognises each section.
- Bullet Points for Clarity – Use simple bullet points to list duties and achievements rather than long paragraphs.
- Avoid Headers/Footers – Important information like contact details should be placed in the main body, as some ATS can’t read header/footer sections.
A clean, single-column layout is the most compatible with most ATS and ensures nothing is missed during parsing.
2. Use Relevant Keywords Strategically
One of the biggest functions of ATS is matching keywords from the job description to your CV. Carefully read the job posting and identify the most important skills, qualifications, and responsibilities mentioned — these are your target keywords.
Tips for keyword optimisation:
- Mirror the Job Advert – Include the job title and key phrases exactly as they appear.
- Place Keywords Naturally – Sprinkle them throughout your Professional Summary, Skills, and Work Experience
- Avoid Keyword Stuffing – Repeating keywords unnaturally can harm readability and may be flagged by advanced ATS software.
Remember, ATS doesn’t “understand” synonyms as well as humans do, so using the exact terms from the job description is more effective.
3. File Format and Fonts
Your choice of file format and fonts also affects how well an ATS can read your CV:
Best File Formats
- DOCX (Word) – Traditionally most compatible with ATS.
- PDF – Often acceptable and preserves formatting, but check the job advert for any specific requirement.
Recommended Fonts
Use simple, professional fonts such as:
- Arial
- Calibri
- Times New Roman
Avoid decorative fonts or tiny font sizes that can confuse parsing software.
4. Focus on Clear, Concise Content
While formatting matters for ATS, content is king for both software and human recruiters. Make sure your CV balances machine readability with compelling storytelling:
Professional Profile (H3)
Start with a concise summary at the top that captures your core skills, experience, and career goals.
Achievements Over Duties (H3)
Use metrics and results where possible — e.g., “Increased sales by 20% in six months.” This not only looks strong to recruiters but also helps ATS recognise relevant competencies.
Consistent Formatting (H3)
Ensure dates, job titles, and locations follow the same format. This helps ATS correctly categorise each entry.
5. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even small mistakes can cause your CV to fail ATS parsing. Be careful to avoid:
- Images or Graphics – ATS generally can’t read text embedded in visuals.
- Complex Tables or Columns – These can jumble the order of information.
- Over-Styled Layouts – Fancy designs might look good, but they often confuse parsing software.
Keeping everything simple and structured maximises your chances of moving past the ATS and into a recruiter’s hands.
Conclusion: Balance ATS and Human Readability
An ATS-friendly CV isn’t about “gaming the system”; it’s about clear, strategic communication. By using the right structure, keywords, and simple formatting, you make it easier for both software and hiring managers to see your value. These strategies, combined with personalised content that highlights your strengths, can significantly improve your job application success in the UK. Follow these tips, and you’ll ensure your efforts — whether DIY or supported by professional services — pay off when landing interviews and job offers.