Stop Chasing ATS Scores: Write a CV That Gets Interviews

TL;DR: ATS tools can help, but obsessing over a perfect score won't land you an interview. Focus on your content, relevance, and real human feedback instead.

The ATS Score Trap: Why It's So Tempting

When you're building a CV for the first time, it's easy to get hooked on tools that promise to boost your Applicant Tracking System (ATS) score. They suggest endless tweaks—word choice, layout adjustments, template changes—all to chase that elusive 95+ match number.

But the truth? No recruiter is rejecting you because your CV uses "Managed" instead of "Led." ATS rejections usually happen for much bigger reasons.

Why Most Rejections Aren't About Keywords

Recruiters and hiring systems reject applications when they don't meet clear dealbreakers—often captured by the application form itself. For example:

• You applied for a role that requires a driving license you don't have.
• You live in the wrong location for a local-only position.
• There's a legal or compliance requirement you can't fulfill.

No amount of keyword tweaking or fancy templates will bypass these automatic filters.

What Actually Matters: Your CV's Story

Your real advantage isn't tricking an algorithm. It's telling a story that convinces a human you're worth interviewing. Ask yourself:

• What did you achieve? Quantify real results and impact.
• Why does it matter? Connect your past work to the employer's needs.
• Does it pass the skim test? Would a busy hiring manager think, "I need to talk to this person"?

Format and Layout: Less Important Than You Think

Columns, fonts, templates—yes, they should be clear and professional. But a beautifully designed CV with weak content won't get you far.

A simple, scannable format with clear headings and achievements beats ATS 'hacks' every time.

Human Feedback Beats AI Checklists

Too many job seekers rely on AI tools or rigid checklists to 'perfect' their CVs. Instead, get real-world feedback:

✅ Ask a mentor or friend in your industry to read it.
✅ See if they understand what you do and why you stand out.
✅ Have them skim it for 30 seconds—what sticks?

If a real person thinks, "I'd hire them," you're on the right track.

Final Thoughts

Don't waste time chasing the perfect ATS score. Spend that energy on tailoring your CV to the role, writing clearly, and highlighting your real impact.

A story that resonates with a hiring manager will always beat a keyword checklist.

Looking for more ways to level up your CV and job applications? Check out other posts at LandThisJob for practical job search strategies that actually work. 🚀