đź“„ How to Write a CV That Beats the ATS: A Guide for Candidates in the Age of AI
In today’s job market, your CV may be reviewed by software before a human ever sees it. That’s why it’s essential to write a resume that’s friendly to AI and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Here’s how to make sure your CV gets noticed — not filtered out.
🤖 What is an ATS?
An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is software used by employers to scan, sort, and rank resumes based on how well they match the job description. If your resume isn’t optimized, it might never reach the hiring manager.
âś… Tip 1: Use a Simple, Clean Layout
Avoid fancy formatting, graphics, or tables. Stick to:
- Standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman
- Clear section headings (e.g. “Experience”, “Education”)
- Consistent bullet points and alignment
âś… Tip 2: Include the Right Keywords
Use keywords from the job description — these are what the ATS is scanning for. Focus on:
- Skills and tools (e.g. “Excel”, “CRM”, “Python”)
- Certifications (e.g. PMP, CPA)
- Job-specific terms (e.g. “content strategy”, “customer onboarding”)
But don’t keyword-stuff — use them naturally within your experience and skills.
âś… Tip 3: Tailor Your CV for Each Application
Generic resumes don’t work well with AI. Customize your CV to each job by mirroring the language in the job ad and highlighting the most relevant achievements.
âś… Tip 4: Label Sections Clearly
Use standard section titles like:
- Work Experience
- Education
- Skills
- Certifications
Don’t get creative like calling it “My Journey” or “Where I’ve Been” — ATS might not recognize it.
âś… Tip 5: Save as Word or PDF (If Accepted)
Check if the job post specifies a format. Most ATS can read .docx and PDF, but PDF can sometimes break if the formatting is complex.
đź“Ś Final Thoughts
AI is shaping how companies hire, and your CV needs to keep up. By following these simple rules, you’ll boost your chances of getting past the bots — and into the interview room.
👉 Need help reviewing your CV? Send it to us at  vick.nguyen@yourwork.vn or connect with us on Zalo/Viber/WhatsApp/ Phone: +84 0906 906 235or a free ATS-check!
Keywords: how to write ATS resume, AI-friendly CV tips, job search tools, resume formatting, candidate CV optimization