How to beat the bots and get your application seen.
You spent hours crafting your CV. It’s neat, well-written, and highlights all the right things. So why does it feel like your job applications are disappearing into a black hole?
Here’s the uncomfortable truth:
Your CV probably didn’t get seen by a human.
It was filtered out by a machine—an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)—before a recruiter ever laid eyes on it.
🤖 What’s an ATS?
An ATS is software companies use to manage high volumes of job applications. It scans your CV for keywords, formatting, and structure to determine if you’re a match for the role. If your CV doesn’t meet the system’s criteria? It never makes it to a recruiter’s inbox.
This is common practice—especially in mid-sized to large companies. Even smaller businesses are using ATS tools now, especially with the rise of remote and hybrid hiring.
🚫 Why CVs Get Rejected by Bots
Even qualified candidates can get filtered out. Common reasons include:
- Wrong file format – Some systems don’t play nice with PDFs or overly designed CVs.
- Missing keywords – If the job ad says “budget management” and your CV says “financial oversight,” you might be skipped.
- Complex formatting – Columns, tables, and graphics can confuse the system.
- Unclear section labels – The ATS is looking for standard headings like Experience, Education, and Skills.
✅ How to Get Past the Filter
- Use a simple, clean layout – Stick to .docx or text-based PDF files.
- Mirror the job post – Use keywords from the ad naturally in your CV.
- Avoid columns, headers/footers, and unusual fonts or graphics.
- Use clear, standard headings – Don’t try to be too creative here.
- Don’t stuff it with keywords – It might pass the bot but won’t impress a human.
🎯 The Human Side of Recruitment
At HRcorp, we use smart tools, but we also know the value of human judgment. Great candidates can get lost in a digital shuffle, and we work hard to make sure that doesn’t happen.
If you’re not getting the traction you deserve in your job hunt, it might be your CV format—not your skills. We can help.
💬 Need help optimizing your CV or navigating the job market?
Get in touch with our team at HRcorp.co.za and let’s get you noticed—for the right reasons.