What is an applicant tracking system? How to write a CV to beat the Automated Tracking Systems

• February 26, 2021
• Author: Katie Clough

While it’s no myth that you need to make your CV stand out to employers, it’s important for job seekers to be aware that nearly 40% of employers use Automated Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen candidates for their job openings. This means that there is an increasingly important need to tailor your CV to beat the ATS applicant tracking system. This might sound a bit scary, but don’t worry – our latest webinar in partnership with GraduateCoach will give you all the tips you need to know how to beat the online applicant tracking system.

 

 

The biggest problem for students, graduates and job-seekers here is that if you don't know how to beat the applicant tracking system, then you run the risk of your CV been thrown away before it is even seen by a human! Many of us don’t know how an ATS CV test works, how many companies use ATS and how to beat the ATS screening programmes. One of the most increasingly popular ways to recruit new talent is for companies to use an applicant tracking system – but how do they work? Our webinar will explore all the secrets and tips to help you create an ATS friendly CV, but until then we have a few things you can think about.

 

6 Tips on How to Beat the ATS System:

 

1. Use Keywords Customized for the Job:

An ATS CV checker will scan your CV for certain words that match the job description or highlight the key employability skills companies look out for. Because of this you might want to test your CV through a free applicant tracking system so that you can understand what makes an ATS friendly CV. Use words that are relevant to the position but also connect to real skills and experience in the workplace and explain why this makes you perfect for the role.

2. Use standard section headings:

When you are preparing your resume for the ATS CV Scanner, you'll want to ensure that you have used the proper section headings to get past the all types of free online applicant tracking systems. You’ll need to use basic formatting on your applicant tracking system online because you want the ATS CV tracker to be able to read your resume easily. In our webinar we will show you the ideal ATS CV template and some ATS friendly CV templates.

3. Update your online information:

Sometimes, the ATS CV test will do more than look over the CV that you have submitted to them. The applicant tracking system (ATS) can actually browse the web and look into information that you have provided to ensure that it all matches. So it’s worth ensuring that you keep all of your online social media up to date and ensure that your CV is as clear, honest and accurate as possible.

4. Submit the right type of file:

One of the most simple things to remember when you’re researching how to get your CV past ats is to ensure that you are uploading the right file. All ATS CV scanners will look for certain acceptable file types, so if you submit the wrong type of file then most automated tracking systems will either reject the application or make inaccuracies, hindering your chances of being invited for an interview.

 

 

5. Write out acronyms and titles:

Different types of automated tracking systems can be set to search for different things. For example, one ATS CV Checker might look for the acronym of a phrase e.g. ‘SEO’ while another automated tracking system might be looking for the long-form term or phrase such as ‘Search Engine Optimization’. Therefore, a top tip to beat the applicant tracking systems is to include both, use the longer written word as well as the acronym e.g. ‘Search Engine Optimization (SEO)’.

6. Follow up with the Employer:

When you have an ATS CV scan or ATS CV checker looking over your CV, you'll need to ensure that you've included all the tips and tricks (that will be revealed in our upcoming webinar!) to get noticed by the tracker before the hiring manager. However, if you really want to push through to the final decision maker at the company then it’s worth sending them a message one or two weeks after your application to let them know that you’ve applied and tell them why you’re keen for the role.

To conclude, with over 40% of companies using ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) to screen CV’s and the process becoming increasingly popular in the job market, it's clear that students, graduates and job-seekers need to become more aware of how they're submitting their CV's. We are excited to share all the secrets of how to beat the ATS Robots that can help you land your dream job in our next webinar. 
 

• February 26, 2021
• Author: Katie Clough