Keyword Optimisation
ATS systems match your CV against job descriptions. Strategic keyword placement—in context, not keyword stuffing—increases your ranking and visibility to recruiters.
Before a human ever sees your CV, it likely passes through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). These software platforms parse, store, and rank applications based on keyword matching and formatting compatibility. With over 98% of large companies using ATS, and AI-powered screening becoming increasingly common, understanding how these systems work is no longer optional—it's essential. A brilliant CV that an ATS can't read is a CV that never gets seen.
Key ATS Optimisation Topics
ATS-Friendly Formatting
Tables, columns, headers/footers, and graphics can confuse ATS parsing. Learn which formatting elements to avoid and which are safe to use.
AI Screening Tools
Beyond traditional ATS, AI tools now assess CV content for relevance, skills matching, and even predicted job performance. Optimise for both machine and human readers.
Parsing Compatibility
How you structure sections, use headings, and format contact information affects whether ATS can correctly extract and categorise your details.
Who Is This For?
- Job seekers applying to large companies and corporations
- Candidates submitting applications through online portals
- Professionals not receiving responses despite being qualified
- Anyone whose CV uses complex formatting or graphics
Explore our ATS optimisation insights below to ensure your CV reaches human eyes and doesn't disappear into the digital void.
All ATS Optimisation Insights
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The "%20" Filename Error
Why you should never use spaces in your CV filename. Learn how web browsers convert spaces into ugly "%20" characters that look unprofessional.
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The "PDF vs. Word" Parse Debate (2025 Edition)
The old advice was "Always Word." The new advice is "PDF First." We explain why modern parsers prefer PDF and the one specific exception where Word wins.
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Keyword Strategy: Optimising Without Stuffing
ATS systems match your CV against job descriptions. Learn how to use keywords naturally without triggering spam filters or looking desperate.
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The ATS Landscape: Which Robots Are Reading Your CV?
Not all ATS systems are equal. Learn which platforms Fortune 500 companies, agencies, and SMBs use—and how each one parses your CV differently.
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How ATS Systems Read Your CV Header
ATS parsers extract your name, email, and phone from the header. Learn how to format contact details so robots read them correctly.
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"My Journey" vs. "Experience": How Headers Confuse Robots
Being creative with your section titles can confuse the resume parser. Learn the standard headings that ensure your data lands in the right database fields.
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The "White Text" Hack: Why It Gets You Rejected
A viral trend suggests hiding keywords in white text to trick the ATS. We explain why this "Black Hat" tactic fails and how it can get you blacklisted.
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The "Left-to-Right" Rule: Why Columns Break Parsers
Multi-column layouts look great to humans but often scramble data for robots. We explain the "Reading Order" logic of older ATS software.
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Do ATS Robots Click Your Links?
Will a live hyperlink confuse the Applicant Tracking System? We break down how parsers handle URLs and where to place them for safety.