If you have ever sent off an application and wondered whether a human being even looked at it, you are not alone. The reality is that many employers now rely on applicant tracking systems (ATS) and, increasingly, AI tools to sift through the flood of CVs and cover letters they receive.
For job seekers, this can feel like applying to a black hole. But understanding how these systems work and how to work with them can help you get your application noticed.
An ATS is software that manages the recruitment process for companies. It sorts, filters and ranks applicants based on the information in their CVs and cover letters. Larger firms use these systems to save time, but even smaller employers are starting to rely on them. Think of an ATS as a search engine for CVs. Just as you would not expect to appear in Google without relevant keywords, your CV needs to include the terms that hiring managers and recruiters are searching for.
Beyond the traditional ATS, some employers are using AI to read applications. These tools claim to assess not just experience but also traits like problem-solving, leadership and communication. Some even analyse writing style or video interview responses.
This can make the process feel impersonal, but it also creates opportunities. If you know what the system is looking for, you can present your experience in a way that makes both the AI and the eventual human reviewer take notice.
Use keywords wisely
Read the job description closely and mirror its language in your CV. If the role calls for “supply chain optimisation,” avoid replacing it with “logistics improvement.” Machines are literal.
Keep formatting simple
ATS often struggle with complicated layouts, graphics or unusual fonts. Stick to clear headings, bullet points and standard section titles like “Experience” and “Education.”
Show measurable impact
Where possible, quantify achievements. Instead of writing “responsible for managing a team,” try “led a team of six engineers to deliver a new product line three weeks ahead of schedule.”
Tailor every application
Yes, it takes more time, but sending the same CV to every employer rarely works. Customising each application to highlight the skills and achievements most relevant to that job is one of the best ways to get through the filters.
Don’t forget the human
Even if a machine is the first reader, a person will eventually make the decision. Make sure your CV is professional, clear and compelling. Avoid writing purely for keywords; the goal is to be easy to find and persuasive to read.
ATS and AI are not going away. Rather than seeing them as barriers, job seekers can treat them as part of the process and learn how to work with them. By understanding how these systems operate and by presenting your experience in a way that balances keywords with real achievements, you can increase your chances of landing interviews.
At Witan Search, we see the impact of these tools every day. The strongest candidates are not the ones with the flashiest CVs, but those who can clearly demonstrate their value while navigating the technology that stands between them and the hiring manager.