Applicant Tracking Systems scan structure before they evaluate substance. A brilliant career story can still fail if the file cannot be parsed cleanly.

Avoid text boxes, multi-column layouts, and image-based headers. Use standard section labels like Experience, Education, and Skills so parsers map your content correctly.

Mirror language from the job description without keyword stuffing. Prioritize achievements with numbers — revenue, retention, cycle time, team size — over vague duty lists.

Export to a clean PDF or DOCX based on the employer’s instructions, then test by copying your CV into a plain-text editor. If the order breaks, an ATS will struggle too.