In today’s competitive job market, your CV is often scanned by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) before a human ever sees it. These systems are designed to filter applications based on keywords, formatting, and relevance, meaning a well-written CV can still fail if it’s not optimized for digital screening. Here’s what to watch out for.
1. Ignoring Keywords
ATS software searches for specific keywords from the job description. If your CV doesn’t include relevant terms, like required skills, qualifications, or certifications, it may never reach a recruiter. Always tailor your CV for each role, mirroring the language used in the posting.
2. Overly Fancy Formatting
Graphics, tables, and complex layouts can confuse ATS software. While visually appealing CVs may impress a human recruiter, an ATS may misread your content or skip sections entirely. Stick to simple headings, bullet points, and standard fonts.
3. Using Abbreviations Without Explanation
Abbreviations or acronyms can be misinterpreted by ATS. Spell out certifications and job titles on first mention, then add the abbreviation in parentheses. For example: “Certified Public Accountant (CPA).”
4. Neglecting Standard Section Headings
ATS relies on standard headings to categorize information: Education, Work Experience, Skills, Certifications. Unusual headings like “My Journey” or “Professional Highlights” may cause the system to misfile your details.
5. Overloading with Irrelevant Information
While it’s tempting to include every job and achievement, ATS filters can penalize overstuffed CVs with unrelated content. Focus on experiences and skills directly relevant to the role.
6. Forgetting the File Format
Most ATS systems prefer .docx or PDF files, but some PDFs created from images or graphics may not be readable. Always check the employer’s instructions and submit in the recommended format.
7. Inconsistent Dates and Locations
ATS looks for chronological clarity. Inconsistent formatting of dates, missing locations, or unusual date sequences can make it difficult for the system to parse your work history.
8. Ignoring Soft Skills and Action Verbs
While ATS primarily scans for technical skills and qualifications, action verbs and soft skills like “collaborated,” “led,” or “implemented” can boost your ranking in some systems. Combine measurable outcomes with these verbs for maximum impact.
Optimizing your CV for ATS
Run your CV through a free ATS-friendly checker online before submission. This will highlight areas where keywords are missing, formatting could cause errors, or sections are hard for the software to read.In the digital age, a CV is about surviving the first round of automated screening. By optimizing your CV for ATS while keeping it readable for humans, you dramatically improve your chances of landing an interview.
CV Sins
At Jobs Expo Galway on 13th September 2025 in the Galmont Hotel Ian Richardson delivered his seminar CV Sins.
Jobs Expo Cork
Jobs Expo is returning to Cork in 2026! Jobs Expo Cork will take place in the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs on Saturday, 11th April (11am-4pm). This careers fair is sponsored by Recruit.ie and will feature hundreds of active job opportunities. Jobs Expo is the only careers exhibition of its type to feature FREE ADMISSION.
What can you expect at Jobs Expo Cork?
• Employers actively recruiting for hundreds of jobs at home and abroad
• Specialised areas dedicated to jobs in particular industries
• The Career Clinic offering one-on-one CV, job seeking and career advice from professional career guidance counsellors
• A packed seminar timetable on important and topical issues by a range of industry experts