Here’s a set of instructions to help you write an ATS (Applicant Tracking System) friendly CV:

  1. Start with your contact information:
    • Provide your full name, phone number, and email address.
    • Include your current location (city, state, and country).
  2. Write a compelling summary or objective statement:
    • Summarize your professional background and career goals.
    • Highlight key skills and experiences relevant to the desired position.
    • Keep it concise and focused, around 2-3 sentences.
  3. List your professional experience:
    • Start with your most recent position and work backward.
    • Include the company name, job title, and employment dates for each role.
    • Describe your responsibilities, accomplishments, and key contributions.
    • Use bullet points to make it easy to read and scan.
    • Incorporate industry-specific keywords related to the job you’re targeting.
  4. Highlight your education:
    • Include your highest level of education, such as a degree or certification.
    • Provide the name of the institution, degree/certificate earned, and graduation year.
    • If you have relevant coursework or academic achievements, mention them briefly.
  5. Showcase your skills:
    • Create a dedicated skills section to emphasize your relevant capabilities.
    • Include both hard skills (e.g., programming languages, tools, software) and soft skills (e.g., communication, leadership, teamwork).
    • Tailor your skills to match the requirements of the job description.
    • Use a bulleted list format for clarity.
  6. Include additional sections:
    • If applicable, add sections for projects, internships, volunteer work, or professional affiliations.
    • Highlight any certifications, licenses, or training programs completed.
    • Mention relevant conferences or workshops you have attended.
  7. Optimize formatting and layout:
    • Use a clean and professional design.
    • Stick to a standard font (e.g., Arial, Calibri) and font size (10-12 points).
    • Divide your CV into clear sections with headings (e.g., Experience, Education).
    • Use consistent formatting, such as bullet points and indentation.
    • Avoid using excessive formatting elements like graphics, tables, or text boxes, as they can confuse ATS systems.
  8. Proofread and edit:
    • Review your CV for any spelling or grammatical errors.
    • Ensure the information is accurate and up to date.
    • Eliminate jargon or acronyms that might not be familiar to everyone.
    • Ask someone else to proofread your CV for a fresh perspective.
  9. Save your CV in an ATS-friendly format:
    • Save your CV as a plain text (.txt) or a Microsoft Word (.docx) document.
    • Avoid using PDF or unconventional file formats, as they might not be compatible with all ATS systems.
    • Double-check the formatting after saving to ensure it remains intact.
  10. Tailor your CV for each application:
    • Customize your CV to match the keywords and requirements mentioned in the job description.
    • Highlight the most relevant skills and experiences for each position you apply to.
    • Avoid using generic or vague statements; instead, focus on specific achievements.

Remember, while optimizing your CV for ATS is important, make sure it remains readable and engaging for human recruiters as well. Balancing both aspects will increase your chances of success. Good luck with your job application!

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