How to Beat ATS: 7 Tips to Get Your CV Past the Robots
Most companies use Applicant Tracking Systems to filter resumes. Learn how to optimize your CV so it passes ATS screening and reaches human recruiters.
By FitMyCV Team
What is an ATS?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software that companies use to manage job applications. It scans, parses, and ranks resumes before a human recruiter ever sees them. Studies show that up to 75% of resumes are rejected by ATS before reaching a hiring manager.
7 Tips to Pass ATS Screening
1. Use standard section headings
Stick to conventional headings like “Work Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.” Creative headings like “My Journey” or “What I Bring” confuse ATS parsers.
2. Include keywords from the job description
ATS systems match your CV against the job posting. Mirror the exact phrases used in the listing — if they say “project management,” don’t write “managing projects.”
3. Use a simple, clean format
Avoid tables, columns, headers/footers, and graphics. ATS can’t read these reliably. Stick to a single-column layout with clear hierarchy.
4. Submit as PDF (unless told otherwise)
Modern ATS handles PDF well, and it preserves your formatting. Only use .docx if the application specifically requires it.
5. Don’t stuff keywords
ATS is getting smarter. Keyword stuffing (hiding white text, repeating terms) will get flagged. Use keywords naturally in context.
6. Quantify your achievements
“Increased sales by 35%” is both ATS-friendly (contains relevant keywords) and impressive to human readers.
7. Tailor your CV for each application
A generic CV won’t score well against specific job requirements. Customize your skills and experience sections for each role.
Let AI do the heavy lifting
FitMyCV automates this entire process — it analyzes the job offer, scores your CV for ATS compatibility, identifies keyword gaps, and generates a tailored resume optimized for both ATS and human readers.