In Kenya’s competitive job market, creating a CV that stands out to recruiters and hiring managers is vital. However, many companies now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to streamline the recruitment process. These systems scan CVs for specific keywords and formatting, filtering out those that don’t meet the criteria before they even reach human eyes.
If you’re wondering how to craft an ATS-friendly CV, this guide provides step-by-step advice tailored to Kenyan job seekers.
What Is an ATS CV?
An ATS CV is a CV designed to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems. These systems evaluate resumes based on:
- Relevance of Keywords: Terms that match the job description.
- Formatting and Structure: A clean layout that ATS software can easily read.
- Consistency and Accuracy: Proper spelling, grammar, and job titles.
An ATS CV doesn’t just look good—it ensures that your qualifications are seen by recruiters.
Why Do Kenyan Employers Use ATS?
Many companies in Kenya, especially multinationals and larger organizations, use ATS software to:
- Streamline Recruitment: Save time by filtering unqualified applicants.
- Ensure Fairness: Objectively rank candidates based on relevant skills.
- Handle High Volumes: Manage hundreds of CVs for a single position efficiently.
As a job seeker, understanding ATS is crucial to getting your application noticed.
How to Write an ATS-Friendly CV
1. Tailor Your CV to the Job Description
An ATS scans for keywords directly from the job description. To optimize your CV:
- Highlight skills, qualifications, and experience mentioned in the listing.
- Use exact phrases like “project management,” “data analysis,” or “customer service.”
- Avoid overloading your CV with irrelevant details.
2. Use a Simple, Clean Format
Complex designs or graphics can confuse ATS software. Stick to a layout that prioritizes readability:
- Font: Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in size 11–12.
- Structure: Use clear headings (e.g., Work Experience, Education, Skills).
- No Fancy Graphics: Avoid images, tables, or columns.
3. Include a Professional Summary
Start with a short, impactful summary at the top of your CV:
- Focus on your key qualifications and career goals.
- Example: “Results-driven marketing professional with 5+ years of experience in digital campaigns and client relations.”
4. Optimize Your Work Experience Section
Highlight relevant experience with these tips:
- Use Bullet Points: Clearly outline your achievements.
- Quantify Success: Use metrics like “Increased sales by 30% in 6 months.”
- Include Dates: Ensure employment dates are in a consistent format (e.g., Jan 2021–Dec 2023).
5. Focus on Hard Skills
ATS prioritizes measurable, job-specific skills:
- Technical skills: Excel, SQL, or SAP.
- Industry-specific skills: Tax compliance (for accounting roles), CAD software (for engineering).
- Avoid generic terms like “hardworking” or “team player.”
6. Add Relevant Keywords
For an ATS CV, keywords are your secret weapon. To find the right ones:
- Scan the job description for frequently mentioned skills.
- Incorporate those keywords naturally into your CV.
- Example: Replace “Handled customer calls” with “Managed customer inquiries using CRM software.”
7. Include Certifications and Education
Highlight qualifications relevant to the job:
- Mention degrees, diplomas, or certifications (e.g., CPA, PMP).
- List courses that match the role (e.g., Digital Marketing Fundamentals).
- Include completion dates to show recent training.
8. Save Your CV in the Right Format
ATS systems often struggle with incompatible file types.
- Save your CV as a Word document (.doc or .docx) or a PDF (if specified).
- Avoid overly creative file names. Use something like “John_Kariuki_CV.docx.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading with Keywords: Use keywords naturally; don’t stuff them.
- Using Irregular Headings: Stick to standard headings like “Education” and “Work Experience.”
- Leaving Out Contact Information: Include your phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile.
- Ignoring Job Description Details: Generic CVs rarely pass ATS filters.
Sample ATS-Friendly CV Layout
John Kariuki
[Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile]
Professional Summary
Dynamic sales professional with 4+ years of experience in retail and e-commerce. Proven ability to increase revenue through strategic planning and customer relationship management.
Key Skills
- Customer relationship management (CRM)
- Sales forecasting and analysis
- Negotiation and closing techniques
Work Experience
Sales Representative | ABC Retail Ltd | Nairobi
Jan 2020–Present
- Increased monthly sales by 20% through personalized customer engagement.
- Trained a team of 5 associates on upselling strategies, boosting store revenue.
Education
Bachelor of Commerce, Marketing | University of Nairobi | 2018
Certifications
Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) | 2022
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is ATS-Friendly Formatting?
ATS-friendly formatting uses clean layouts, standard fonts, and clear headings to ensure the system reads and processes your CV correctly.
Can ATS Detect Design Elements Like Tables?
Most ATS systems struggle with tables, columns, and graphics. Avoid these to prevent errors.
What Are the Best Keywords for an ATS CV?
Keywords depend on the job description. Use role-specific terms like “budget management” for finance roles or “data visualization” for analytics.
Do Kenyan Companies Use ATS for Entry-Level Jobs?
Yes, many larger firms and multinationals in Kenya use ATS even for entry-level positions to manage high application volumes.
Conclusion on Writing an ATS CV
An ATS-friendly CV is essential for job seekers in Kenya looking to stand out in a competitive market. By tailoring your CV with relevant keywords, maintaining a clean layout, and highlighting measurable achievements, you can ensure your application reaches recruiters.
With these tips, your CV won’t just pass the ATS filter—it will make a lasting impression.
