How to Craft a CV That Passes ATS and Impresses UK Employers
Your guide to writing a CV that beats the system and wins interviews.
We work directly with UK employers, so your CV isn’t guesswork; it’s built to impress.
In the UK job market, getting noticed starts long before a hiring manager ever sees your CV. Most applications are screened by software called Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) — automated tools that filter CVs before they even reach a recruiter’s desk.
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If your CV isn’t written to pass ATS filters, it might never be read by a human at all.
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At JobReadyCV, we work directly with UK employers to understand how these systems work and what hiring teams really want to see. This guide shows you how to make your CV both ATS-friendly and employer-approved, so you can stand out for all the right reasons.
What Is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?
An Applicant Tracking System is software that scans, filters, and ranks CVs based on keywords, formatting, and relevance to the job description.
Employers use ATS to manage large volumes of applications quickly. The system looks for matches between your CV and the role including keywords from the job advert, job titles, and required skills.
If your CV doesn’t meet the criteria, it gets filtered out automatically.
How to Make Your CV Pass ATS Scans
✅ Use the Right File Type
Always save and submit your CV as a Word (.docx) or PDF file. These formats are easy for ATS software to read.
✅ Include Relevant Keywords
Scan the job description and include the same skills, tools, and job titles that appear there.
Example:
If the advert says “warehouse operative with stock management experience,” include:
“Warehouse Operative experienced in stock control and inventory management.”
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✅ Avoid Images and Graphics
ATS cannot read text inside images or tables. Stick to a clean, text-based layout with clear headings such as:
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Profile Summary
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Key Skills
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Work Experience
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Education
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✅ Keep Formatting Simple
Avoid columns, symbols, and fancy fonts. Use Arial, Calibri, or similar professional fonts with a clear hierarchy of headings and bullet points.
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✅ Tailor Every Application
A generic CV will never perform as well as a tailored one. Adjust your keywords and descriptions for every role you apply for.
What UK Employers Look for Beyond ATS
Passing the ATS is only the first step. Once your CV reaches a recruiter or hiring manager, it needs to impress in seconds.
A concise personal summary that highlights your strengths
Achievements with measurable results
Key skills aligned with the role
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A clear, professional layout with no errors
Example:
Instead of saying “Responsible for deliveries,” write “Improved on-time delivery rates by 15% through better route coordination.”
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Employers look for clarity, evidence, and professionalism — not just experience.
Common ATS and CV Mistakes to Avoid
Even strong candidates lose opportunities because of small but avoidable mistakes.
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Here’s what to check before sending your CV:
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🚫 Using generic templates from the internet
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🚫 Missing contact details or incomplete information
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🚫 Overusing buzzwords without examples
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🚫 Uploading images, logos, or charts
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🚫 Forgetting to proofread
Employer Tip:
Recruiters notice effort. A well-written, keyword-rich CV that reads naturally always performs better than one filled with jargon.
Structure of an ATS-Friendly CV (UK Standard)
Header
Include your full name, location (city and postcode), phone number, and email address.
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Personal Summary
A short 3–4 line paragraph highlighting your professional background, skills, and what you can bring to the role.
Key Skills
List 6–8 relevant skills using keywords from the job description.
Example: Customer Service, Stock Control, Health and Safety, Team Leadership, Communication.
Work Experience
List roles in reverse order. Use bullet points starting with action verbs (managed, improved, supported).
Education and Training
Include your highest qualifications and relevant certifications.
Optional Sections
Add volunteering, languages, or achievements if they strengthen your profile.
The Final ATS-Proof Checklist
Before submitting your CV, use this quick checklist:
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✅ Correct file format (Word or PDF)
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✅ Clear headings and structure
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✅ Keywords that match the job description
✅ No graphics or tables
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✅ Bullet points starting with action verbs
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✅ Short, measurable achievements
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✅ Proofread twice for errors
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If your CV ticks all these boxes, it will pass ATS filters and make a strong impression on recruiters.
Final Thoughts
Technology may screen your CV first, but it’s still written for people. The best CVs are both ATS-optimised and human-friendly — clear, relevant, and focused on real results.
At JobReadyCV, every CV we create is built with direct employer input, ensuring your application meets ATS standards and captures recruiter attention.
If you’re ready to stand out, start with a CV that does both.
