CV Parsing Technology

As markets get busier, employers rely on technology to deal with an increase in applicants. Because of this, it could easily be one of the main reasons you’re not getting past the initial application, as 70% of CV’s are said to be rejected by CV parsing technology. Frustrating right?

But don’t worry, here are five effective tips to get your CV past recruitment parsing technology.

Add Keywords

The ‘key’ is to pump your CV full of relevant keywords. We suggest this because the technology will scan a CV for the keywords that represent the ideal candidate. I.e., the ones used in the job specification and description. Add them to your application forms, as well as your CV, but don’t lie, as this will only backfire later on.

Use Industry Recognised Titles

Use titles which are commonly recognised within the industry. I.e., ‘Brand Warrior’ or ‘Sandwich Artist’ (thanks Subway) may sound cooler, but not so commonly recognised. This technology will only scan for what it’s told to. Again, approach this similarly to adding keywords. Make sure it still truly represents the seniority of your previous positions.

Extra Tip: Search keywords online to see the results they return. If the results are high, it’s a good keyword.

Add Relevant Skills and Experience

This one might sound obvious, but it’s important that when you list your capabilities, you list them in a way that meets the employer’s needs. Check what qualifications, skills and experience they require, keeping in mind the keywords they used to describe them. If you have them in some way shape or form, include them. 

Extra Tip: It can be frustrating, but you need to edit your CV for every position that you apply for.

Format Your CV

Your CV is there to do a job. Don’t get carried away by making it too pretty. Including graphics, symbols, and images may make it harder for technology to scan it. Just use bullet points. It’s also best to use tabs instead of tables and capitalise headers. You also need to make sure that the document can be opened from various devices and applications. You don’t want your CV showing all jumbled up on someone else’s computer or worse, not opening at all. Simple is best. The art is in what you are saying.

Consistency

Make sure to keep your CV consistent throughout, and always be honest, don’t exaggerate or lie. Of course, we want to market ourselves attractively, but there is a big difference. You can easily get caught out, cause damage to your credibility and ruin your chances of getting the job. Then try to keep continuity by using the same fonts, sizes, and colours.

Extra Tip: Although you want to create your CV with technology in mind, remember, it still needs to impress a human being!