When applying for jobs, having a well-formatted CV is essential to getting noticed. Many companies use an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to filter through applications. If your CV isn’t ATS-friendly, it might never reach a hiring manager, even if you’re highly qualified. That’s why it’s important to format your CV correctly. In this guide, we’ll go over the most common mistakes people make and how you can avoid them. Whether you’re creating a new CV or updating an old one, these tips will help your CV get through the system. Using CV writing services Ireland can also make the process easier and more professional.
1. Inconsistent Date Formatting
One of the most common mistakes is using different date formats throughout your CV. This can confuse the ATS and make it difficult to read your work history. Stick to one date format, either:
- MM/YYYY (like “03/2023”)
- Month YYYY (like “March 2023”)
Whichever format you choose, make sure to use it consistently for all your job entries. Also, avoid using just the year (like “2023”), as some systems might assume January as the default month.
2. Using Unclear Abbreviations and Acronyms
It’s easy to forget that not everyone knows what certain abbreviations mean. While “CPA” might be obvious to you, it may not be recognized by the ATS if the hiring manager searches for “Certified Public Accountant” instead.
To make sure your CV is readable and searchable, always write out the full term followed by the abbreviation in parentheses. For example:
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Return on Investment (ROI)
This way, your CV will be picked up whether the recruiter searches for the full term or the abbreviation.
3. Using Fancy Graphics and Unusual Fonts
Many people try to make their CV stand out by using creative fonts, colors, or graphics. While this might look nice to a human reader, it can confuse the ATS. Stick to simple, standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. Use bullet points that are plain black dots rather than stars or symbols.
Avoid including images, charts, or tables, as they can mess up how the ATS reads your CV. Simple and clean formatting is the key to making sure your CV gets through.
4. Putting Important Info in Headers or Footers
Some applicants include their contact details or key information in the header or footer of their CV. However, many ATS programs don’t read headers and footers at all, which means your information could be missed entirely. Always place your important details within the main body of the document to make sure they’re visible to the system.
5. Choosing Unusual Fonts or Font Sizes
Picking unique fonts might seem like a great way to stand out, but it can actually backfire. Uncommon fonts might not be supported by the ATS, making your CV unreadable. Stick to classic fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in a size between 10 and 12 points.
6. Using Non-Standard Headings
It might be tempting to use creative headings like “My Journey” instead of “Work Experience,” but this can confuse the ATS. Use standard headings that are easy to recognize, such as:
- Professional Summary
- Work Experience
- Education
- Skills
- Certifications
Using straightforward headings helps both the ATS and hiring managers quickly find the information they need.
7. Submitting Your CV in the Wrong Format
Not all file formats work well with ATS. The safest formats to use are .docx (Microsoft Word) and .pdf. Avoid using file types like .jpg, .png, or .rtf, as these can cause problems with how the ATS reads your CV.
Before submitting, always check the job listing to see if the employer has a preference for a specific file format.
8. Skipping Proofreading
Spelling mistakes and grammar errors can make your CV look unprofessional. Even worse, they might stop the ATS from reading it correctly. Always proofread your CV carefully and consider using tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to catch any mistakes.
It’s also helpful to ask a friend or colleague to review your CV. Fresh eyes can catch errors you may have missed.
9. Treating All ATS Programs the Same
Not all ATS programs work the same way. Some may have different requirements for file types or formatting. Do a little research to understand the specific requirements of the company you’re applying to, or use professional CV editing writing services Ireland to make sure your CV meets the latest standards.
Conclusion
Creating an ATS-friendly CV doesn’t have to be complicated. By avoiding these common mistakes and following best practices, you can increase your chances of getting your application seen by a hiring manager. For extra support, consider using a CV editing writing service Ireland to help you craft a professional and well-optimized CV. Taking the time to format your CV correctly could be the key to landing your next job!
Author: orla doyle
Orla Doyle is a professional CV writer at CV Writers Ireland, specializing in creating tailored, high-impact CVs that help job seekers stand out in Ireland's competitive job market. With a focus on highlighting unique skills and career goals, Orla ensures each client’s resume makes a lasting impression on recruiters
