5 min read

How to optimise your CV for ATS

Applicant tracking systems are easier to work with when your CV is clear, structured, and close to the language of the role. The goal is not to trick software. It is to make your relevant experience easier to find.

LandIt workflow showing a current CV, job advert comparison, and tailored CV export.

Start with a simple structure

ATS-friendly CV optimisation starts with readable headings and plain section order. Use familiar labels such as Professional Profile, Key Skills, Experience, Education, and Certifications.

  • Avoid complex tables for core experience.
  • Use standard role headings with employer and dates.
  • Keep bullet points concise and specific.

Match the job description honestly

Look for repeated skills, tools, responsibilities, and qualifications in the job advert. Add those phrases only where your original CV already supports them.

  • If the job advert asks for a skill you do not have, leave it as a gap.
  • If you have related experience, describe it clearly without overstating it.
  • Use UK English and recruiter-friendly wording.

Use a CV optimiser as a review layer

An AI CV optimiser can help spot missing keywords, weak bullet points, and unclear wording. You should still review the final CV before applying, especially where the role requires specific tools, certifications, or metrics.

Try it

Optimise your CV for one role

Paste your CV and one job description into LandIt to get a match score, missing keywords, review notes, and a tailored CV you can export after unlock.