Many job seekers are growing frustrated with the job application process, particularly when submitting their CVs through company websites or job boards. A common complaint we hear is that CVs are automatically rejected by the automated systems now in place, called Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). The biggest gripe is that job seekers get rejected without any feedback, leaving them unsure of why they were not selected for an interview.
With AI-driven hiring processes and the use of AI to create or fine tune CVs becoming the norm, job seekers are optimising their CVs using AI tools by extracting keywords from job descriptions and structuring their applications to meet what they believe are the ATS requirements. Yet, despite these efforts, many still face an automated rejection. Candidates often feel they meet the job criteria, but the ATS has failed to recognise their relevant experience and skills.
While ATS technology is designed to streamline hiring by filtering out unsuitable applications, it can sometimes overlook well-qualified candidates if their CVs aren’t formatted correctly. That’s why in today’s job market; it is essential to have an understanding of how AI processes applications so you can optimise your CV accordingly and successfully get through that initial screening process and onto the next step.
How to Optimise Your CV for AI
Many candidates use AI-powered platforms like Canva, Zety, or Rezi to format and enhance their CVs. While these tools can create visually appealing documents, not all AI-generated CVs are ATS-friendly.
For example, some CVs designed in graphic-heavy formats may appear as images rather than text when uploaded, making them unreadable by ATS software. If an ATS cannot scan the text content, it won’t recognise your skills or experience, meaning your application might never reach a human recruiter.
Best Practices for an AI-Friendly CV:
Keep it simple: Use a clean, text-based format without graphics, columns, or tables.
Choose the right font: Use ATS-friendly fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman, in size 11 or 12 for readability.
Structure matters: Use clear section headers (e.g., Work Experience, Skills, Education) to help the ATS understand your CV.
Optimise with keywords: Mirror key phrases from the job description to ensure your CV matches ATS search criteria.
Limit historical details: Summarise roles from 10+ years ago rather than listing full job descriptions.
Avoid headers & footers: Some ATS systems may not read content in these sections properly.
Key Tips for Writing an AI-Compatible CV
Write a powerful profile statement of 100-150 words that reflects the job you’re applying for, not just the one you have.
Emphasise key skills, achievements, and industry expertise that align with the role.
Commercial professionals: Define your products, market sectors, application knowledge, and scope of expertise (e.g., regional, national, global). However, avoid sharing commercially sensitive information.
Technical professionals: Detail the technologies you work with, applications, and core skills such as formulation, technology transfer, project management, and analytical techniques.
AI-Generated CVs: The Pros & Cons
Potential Pros
Professional Formatting – AI tools structure your CV in a clean, readable, and ATS-compatible format.
Keyword Optimisation – AI identifies relevant job-specific keywords, improving your chances of passing ATS filters.
Error-Free Content – Automated spelling and grammar checks ensure a polished, mistake-free CV.
Time-Saving – AI speeds up the CV creation process, allowing quick customisation for different roles.
Industry Insights – AI suggests trending skills and best practices to make your application stand out.
Consistency with Personalisation – AI helps balance uniformity and customisation, ensuring your CV is tailored without being repetitive.
Potential Cons
Over-Optimisation Risks – AI-generated CVs may sound robotic, lacking your personal tone and voice.
Inaccuracies & Exaggerations – Some AI tools may fabricate experience or overinflate skills, which can hurt your credibility.
Ethical & Compliance Issues – AI suggestions may unintentionally introduce bias or misleading claims.
ATS Limitations – Overloading your CV with keywords can harm readability when a recruiter reviews it.
Loss of Personality – AI lacks the human touch needed to tell your career story compellingly and make it authentically you.
Blind AI Reliance – You must review AI-generated content carefully to ensure accuracy and relevance.
AI tools can be powerful allies in crafting an optimised CV, but they should not replace your personal input. The best approach is to use AI for structure and insights while carefully reviewing and tailoring the content to maintain authenticity.
A well-optimised, ATS-friendly CV, combined with a strong personal touch, is the key to standing out in today’s AI-driven job market plus getting through the screening of ATS tools too!