Employer Branding
Recruitment
How to write a CV that AI likes: tips for getting shortlisted
30 SEPTEMBER 2024
How do you write a CV that AI likes?
Use the same keywords as the job ad, clear standard headings and a simple layout without tables, images in the text or unusual fonts. Many recruitment systems read and sort CVs automatically, so anything that cannot be read by a machine risks being missed.
Today, artificial intelligence is often the first to see your application. Many companies use AI-driven recruitment systems to quickly screen applications, and if your CV is not optimised to pass the first AI screening, you may be filtered out before a recruiter even sees it. So how do you write a CV that AI likes? Here are some concrete tips.
Use the right keywords
AI is trained to look for specific keywords that match the requirements in the job ad. For your CV to be picked up, use the words and phrases that often appear in job ads for the kind of job you are applying for. Read the ad carefully and identify the key skills, technical abilities and qualifications being asked for.
Tips:
- If the ad mentions project management, use exactly that phrase rather than a synonym.
- Avoid jargon, internal language, unusual terms or vague phrases.
- Tailor your CV to each specific job ad and try to match the wording.
Avoid complicated layouts and unusual structure
AI’s ability to read a CV depends on how clear and structured the document is. Complicated layouts, images or unusual fonts can cause AI to misread or skip important information.
Tips:
- Use a simple layout and a classic, clear CV structure with headings such as Experience and Education.
- Avoid graphic elements and keep your CV text-based. Images, icons and tables can affect readability.
Use numbers
AI likes concrete information and measurable results. Describe what you have achieved with specific examples and figures.
Tips:
- Use data and results. Write, for example, Increased sales by 30% in one year instead of Responsible for sales.
Get to the point
AI prioritises information that is clear and relevant. A CV with fluffy descriptions or long, complex sentences risks losing points in the matching.
Tips:
- Keep it to two pages at most. AI scans quickly, and a short, concise CV is usually more effective.
- Put the most relevant and sought-after skills at the top of your CV so they are seen immediately.
- Add a short summary at the start of your CV to help AI quickly understand your profile.
Looking ahead: AI plays a growing role in recruitment
AI’s role in the recruitment process is growing. Going forward, AI systems are also getting better at assessing soft skills and matching candidates on potential rather than just past experience. For job seekers, this is an opportunity to be discovered more fairly, but it also means writing a CV that AI understands.
Now you have some tools to improve your chances of passing the first screening and moving on. Good luck!
Looking for your next job? See open positions via Oddwork or read what recruiters look for.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about CVs and AI
Does AI read my CV?
Often, yes. Many recruitment systems parse CVs automatically and rank candidates against the requirements.
Can I use AI to write my CV?
Yes, as support, but the content must be true and reflect you. Always review the text yourself.
Which format is best?
A simple PDF or Word file with clear headings. See also the five hottest CV tips.
