In today's job market, where nearly every company relies on Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to sift through resumes, it's crucial for graduates to craft CVs that stand out to both automated systems and human recruiters. This was the key takeaway from a recent pre-graduation meeting held at the UGM Faculty of Agriculture, where Ardian Rahman Afandi, Head of the Career Center at UGM’s Faculty of Psychology, shared his expertise on ATS-friendly CV writing.

Afandi outlined the essential components of a well-structured CV, emphasizing that it should include personal information, a self-summary, educational background, work or organizational experience, skills, and certifications. He advised that graduates should keep their CVs concise, ideally within two pages, to ensure that key information is presented clearly and efficiently.

“An ATS-friendly CV is not just about including the right information but also about presenting it in a way that aligns with how these systems scan and evaluate documents,” Afandi explained. He recommended using action verbs, detailing specific tasks or projects, and including metrics or results to showcase achievements effectively. For instance, he suggested replacing the commonly used term “help” with more impactful verbs like “assist” to better convey the depth of experience.

Afandi provided five main guidelines for crafting an ATS-friendly CV: it should be clear, concise, complete, consistent, and current. He also highlighted the growing importance of managing one's social media presence. “Social media, particularly platforms like Instagram, can influence how recruiters perceive you. As you prepare your job application, ensure your social media profiles present a positive and professional image,” Afandi advised.

By integrating these strategies, graduates can enhance their chances of catching the eye of recruiters and securing their desired positions in today’s competitive job market.