Most employers in the UK rely on applicant tracking systems to filter candidates before a human ever sees a CV. This means your CV is first evaluated by software, not a recruiter.
If your CV doesn’t contain the right terms, it may never reach the hiring manager. This is why understanding how these systems work is essential if you're applying for roles in Eastbourne or anywhere across the UK.
For broader advice on structuring your application, visit our CV writing homepage or explore career advice tailored to Eastbourne.
When you submit your CV, the system extracts text and categorises it into sections such as experience, skills, and education. It then compares your content with the job requirements.
The system assigns a score based on relevance. This includes:
Candidates are ranked based on how well their CV matches the job description. Only top-ranked applicants are reviewed by recruiters.
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Skills | Project management, data analysis, customer service |
| Tools | Excel, Salesforce, Python, SAP |
| Certifications | PRINCE2, CIPD, ACCA |
| Soft Skills | Leadership, communication, problem-solving |
Responsible for managing customer accounts
Managed 50+ customer accounts, improving retention by 25% through targeted communication strategies
This approach naturally includes important terms while demonstrating impact.
Learn more about these issues in common CV mistakes in the UK.
Many candidates assume that simply adding popular phrases will improve their chances. In reality, systems are increasingly sophisticated and look for context, not just repetition.
For example, mentioning “teamwork” once is far less effective than showing how you led a team to achieve measurable results.
Another overlooked factor is formatting. Even the best content can fail if the system cannot properly read your CV structure.
If you’re struggling to optimise your CV or need help crafting strong content, professional writing services can provide structured, ATS-friendly documents.
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For structure ideas, see functional CV format examples.
Your cover letter should reinforce the same language used in your CV. This consistency strengthens your application and improves overall alignment.
Get tips here: UK cover letter advice.
There is no fixed number, but the focus should always be on relevance rather than quantity. A strong CV naturally integrates important terms throughout different sections, including skills, experience, and achievements. Instead of counting words, ensure that each section reflects the language used in the job description. Overloading your CV with repeated phrases can actually reduce readability and harm your chances. Aim for a balanced approach where keywords are embedded within meaningful content that clearly demonstrates your capabilities.
Yes, many companies across the UK use applicant tracking systems, especially medium and large organisations. These systems help manage large volumes of applications and filter candidates efficiently. While smaller businesses may still review CVs manually, it’s safer to assume that your CV will be scanned digitally. This is particularly important in competitive job markets, where hundreds of applicants may apply for a single role. Preparing your CV for ATS ensures you don’t get filtered out before a recruiter sees your application.
Absolutely. Even a well-written CV can fail if the system cannot properly read it. Complex layouts, images, and unusual fonts can cause parsing errors, leading to missing or misinterpreted information. Simple formatting is often the most effective approach. Use clear headings, standard fonts, and straightforward structures. Avoid placing important details inside tables or text boxes, as some systems struggle to process them correctly. A clean, readable layout improves both ATS compatibility and human readability.
Using similar language is important, but it should feel natural and relevant to your experience. Copying phrases word-for-word without context can make your CV appear generic or even misleading. Instead, adapt the wording to reflect your own achievements and responsibilities. For example, if the job description mentions “project coordination,” you can describe how you coordinated projects and include specific results. This approach shows both alignment and authenticity.
Yes, tailoring your CV for each application significantly increases your chances of success. Different roles prioritise different skills and experiences, even within the same industry. By adjusting your CV to match the specific requirements of each job, you improve its relevance and overall impact. This doesn’t mean rewriting everything from scratch, but rather refining key sections such as your summary, skills, and achievements to align with the role. Customisation is one of the most effective ways to stand out.
They are just as important for entry-level candidates. Even if you have limited work experience, you can still include relevant skills, coursework, internships, and projects. Many employers use ATS systems for graduate and junior positions because of the high number of applicants. By using appropriate terminology and demonstrating your abilities clearly, you can compete more effectively. Focus on transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, and support them with examples wherever possible.