The silence after you hit ‘send’ on a job application can be deafening. You know you’re qualified, so why aren’t you getting the callback? Thousands of job seekers in 2025 face the same frustrating question.
The truth is, your CV faces two filters before an interview is offered:
- Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): These are software tools employers use to scan, sort, and rank applications. If your CV doesn’t include the right skills, experience, or keywords, it may never reach a recruiter.
- Recruiters and hiring managers: Even if your CV passes the ATS, it can be dismissed if it reads like a generic, AI-generated document. They look for concrete results and clear, human language.
The challenge is striking a balance. Creating a CV that gets through ATS systems while still showing your experience and achievements in a natural, human way.
This guide will show you how to write CVs that stand out to both machines and humans, so you don’t get overlooked.
What is ATS and Why Does It Matter in 2025?
ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) are used by most employers to filter candidates automatically. They scan CVs for specific skills, job titles, and keywords, and rank applicants accordingly.
Example – Admin Assistant:
If the job advert mentions “invoice processing” and “SAP knowledge,” but your CV only says “financial software,” the ATS may not recognise you as a match.
For a detailed, step-by-step explanation, check out this YouTube guide on optimising CVs for ATS systems.
The AI Trap: Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI-Generated CVs Alone
AI tools can save time, but relying on them entirely often backfires. Recruiters can usually tell when a CV is written entirely by a machine.
AI-style CV line:
“Motivated professional with a proven track record of success in dynamic environments.”
Better humanised versions:
- Nurse: “Delivered daily care for up to 12 patients, including medication administration and post-surgery monitoring.”
- Software Developer: “Developed Python scripts to automate reporting, reducing processing time by 40%.”
- Teacher: “Designed and delivered 15 weekly lesson plans, raising student test scores by 12%.”
These examples give concrete details and measurable impact — something AI-generated CVs often miss.
Best CV Formats for ATS and Recruiters
CV design matters. Fancy graphics, charts, or tables may look great, but they confuse ATS systems. Stick to a clean and professional format similar to the template shown below:
Tips for ATS-friendly CV formatting:
- Use standard fonts: Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman.
- Headings: Work Experience, Education, Skills.
- Save as Word or PDF (follow employer instructions).
- Use bullet points with clear, action-focused language.
Examples:
- ✅ Delivery Driver: “Delivered an average of 90 packages daily across Greater Manchester, consistently meeting on-time targets.”
- ❌ Delivery Driver: “🚚 Road Warrior delivering packages like a pro 💪.”
For a visual breakdown of CV design mistakes and fixes, see this YouTube video on CV design.
How to Optimise CV Keywords for ATS Scanning
Think of an ATS like a search engine (similar to Google). When you type something into Google — for example, “best coffee near me” — it shows results that include those exact words, aka ‘Keywords’.
ATS works the same way. Recruiters enter specific keywords (skills, qualifications, or job titles) into the system, and it scans CVs to find matches. If your CV doesn’t include those keywords, the system may never show your application to a recruiter.
Step-by-step method:
- Copy the job advert into a document.
- Highlight repeated words or skills.
- Incorporate those keywords naturally in your CV.
Examples:
- Admin Assistant: “Processed 150+ invoices weekly using SAP and Excel with 100% accuracy.”
- Teacher: “Designed and delivered 15 weekly lesson plans aligned with safeguarding standards, raising student test scores by 12%.”
- Software Developer: “Implemented a Python-based automation tool, reducing monthly reporting time by 40%.”
Notice how keywords are integrated naturally without sounding forced.
Writing CVs That Beat ATS and Sound Human
Your CV needs keywords for ATS, but should also sound humanised. Integrate them naturally into measurable achievements, as shown below in the examples:
- Project Manager: “Coordinated a £2M construction project, delivering on schedule and reducing supplier costs by 8%.”
- Nurse: “Managed post-surgery care for 8 patients daily, reducing recovery complications by 15%.”
- Teacher: “Implemented new assessment strategies, improving literacy scores for 20 students by 10%.”
These examples include measurable achievements, natural keywords, and authentic language.
Common CV Errors That Get Rejected by ATS in 2025
Even qualified candidates lose opportunities due to CV errors. Avoid these:
- Using images or graphics – ATS can’t read them.
- Keyword stuffing – Repeating “Excel” or “team player” looks fake.
- Generic copy-paste CVs – ATS and recruiters notice irrelevance.
- Buzzwords without evidence – “Hard-working, results-driven, team player” adds little value.
Examples:
- ❌ Teacher: Excellent communicator and motivator of students.
- ✅ Teacher: Led after-school tutoring for 20 students, improving literacy scores by 15%.
- ❌ Delivery Driver: Reliable and hardworking driver.
- ✅ Delivery Driver: Completed 95+ daily deliveries on time across three counties, maintaining a 99% accuracy rate.
Final Takeaway: Be ATS-Smart, Not ATS-Trapped
In 2025, a CV must balance ATS-friendliness with readability for humans. Use keywords wisely, show measurable achievements, and don’t rely solely on AI.
Remember, a CV is your professional story. Write for people, with ATS as your safety net.
If you want extra support, our free CV review service can help ensure your CV is ready for today’s hiring process.