How to write an ATS-friendly CV in South Africa
Applying for jobs online? Many companies use software to scan CVs before a person ever reads them. Here is how to make sure yours gets through.
What is an ATS?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is software that employers and recruitment agencies use to collect, sort and search CVs. It reads your CV as plain text and looks for things like job titles, skills and dates. If it cannot read your CV properly, a person may never see it.
Seven simple rules
- Use a clean, single-column layout. Tables, text boxes and multiple columns can scramble the order of your information.
- Stick to standard headings such as Profile, Work Experience, Education and Skills.
- Put your name, phone number, email and city at the top as plain text, not inside an image or a header.
- Use the keywords from the job advert, but only where they are true. If the advert asks for customer service and you have done it, say so in those words.
- List each job with the title, company and dates (month and year), newest first.
- Save your CV as a PDF or Word file unless the advert says otherwise, and name it clearly, for example Thato-Mokoena-CV.pdf.
- Keep it to one or two pages.
Mistakes to avoid
- Fancy templates full of icons, graphics and progress bars
- Unusual fonts and very small text
- Contact details hidden in headers or footers
- Spelling mistakes and different date formats
- Sending the same CV for every job without adjusting the keywords
Where we can help
If you would rather have it done for you, our ATS CV (R149) is clean, professional and built to pass screening software, and it is delivered within 24 hours. Prefer something that looks designed? The Premium CV (R249) stands out and stays ATS-safe.
Get an ATS CV · See all CV options
Quick questions
Should I put a photo on my CV?
Usually it is not necessary, and screening software cannot read it. Leave it out unless the job advert asks for one.
Should I include my ID number?
There is no need. Give it only if an employer asks for it later, and avoid putting sensitive details on public job sites.
How long should my CV be?
One to two pages is right for most people. Put the most relevant experience first.