AI-Proof your CV: 4 smart steps to beat bots and impress recruiters

Standing out in today’s job market means doing more than just polishing your CV, it is about understanding how it’s read before it even reaches human hands. More and more companies are relying on AI-powered systems to sort through applications, automatically screening candidates based on keywords, structure and formatting. 

For jobseekers, especially those navigating a competitive job-hunting landscape, this shift can feel intimidating. But with the right strategy, you can turn this technology to your advantage. In this blog, we’ll show you how to craft a CV that not only gets past the bots, but also leaves a strong impression on the people behind the process.

Why jobseekers must adapt to AI in recruitment

Gone are the days when your application landed directly on a hiring manager’s desk. Today, your first point of contact is likely to be a machine, specifically an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) or an AI-powered screening tool. 

A recent Resume Genius report found that over 75% of companies now use AI tools to screen applicants. In larger corporations and recruitment agencies, that figure jumps even higher. These tools are designed to filter, rank and sort candidates based on preset criteria, long before a human recruiter ever opens a CV.

Here’s how it typically works:

• You submit your CV and cover letter online.
• The system scans your documents for keywords, job titles, qualifications and structure.
• Based on this scan, you receive a score or ranking
• Only top-ranked applications move forward for human review.

In other words, if your application doesn’t speak the AI’s language, it may never reach a recruiter’s inbox.

The jobseeker advantage: Learn the system, beat the system

The good news? You don’t need a computer science degree to succeed here. You just need to:

• Understand what AI looks for (keywords, structure, context).
• Present your strengths in a way that AI recognises and values.
• Maintain your individuality and personality, so when your CV does reach a human, you make a lasting impression.

Those who can master this balance have a real edge, because while many are still submitting the same CV to every job, you’ll be speaking the language of both bots and humans

Step-by-Step Guide to Beating the Bots and Staying Human

By following these clear, practical steps, you can create a CV that passes AI screening and still connects with human recruiters. Whether you’re applying for a permanent job or a short-term role through a recruitment agency in South Africa, these steps will help you stand out, for all the right reasons.

Step 1: Read the job description like a recruiter

Before you even begin typing your CV, pause and carefully analyse the job post.

Here’s how to approach it:

1.Highlight the job title exactly as written.

Example: If the title says “Administrative Assistant,” don’t change it to “Office Clerk” on your CV. AI systems match exact phrasing.

2. Underline key responsibilities and verbs in the description.

These are the tasks the employer values most, like “organise schedules,” “maintain records,” or “handle client queries.”

3. Identify soft skills and values the company is looking for.

Words like “collaboration,” “adaptability,” “self-starter,” or “attention to detail” often signal company culture priorities.

4. Make a list of these keywords and phrases in a notebook or separate document.

This list becomes your reference as you tailor your CV.

Goal: Naturally include these phrases throughout your CV, especially in your work experience and summary. To be clear,  you’re not just copying what is in the job description, you’re aligning the skills you already have with what the recruiters are looking for. 

Step 2: Use an ATS-Friendly resume format

Your amazing experience won’t matter if the system can’t read your CV. That’s why it’s so important to use a format that AI understands and avoids confusion.

Do

• Save your CV as a .docx (Microsoft Word) file. This format is universally readable by applicant tracking systems.
• Stick to basic fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman in size 10–12.
• Use clear, simple section headings: Professional Summary, Work Experience, Education and Skills
• Organise jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position.
• Use bullet points for responsibilities and achievements.

Avoid

• Fancy templates, columns, or resume builders with complex layouts.
• Tables, graphics, logos, emojis, or pictures of yourself.
• Saving your CV as a PDF unless the job post specifically requests it.

Goal: Make your CV easy for both the system and the recruiter to read. Clean formatting = higher chances of getting seen.

It might seem tempting to get creative with your CV design, especially with all the fancy templates available online but remember: AI screening software isn’t impressed by visuals. In fact, flashy design elements often do more harm than good.

Here’s why:

• Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are programmed to read plain text. When you insert tables, columns, icons, graphics, or non-standard fonts, the system can misread or skip over key sections entirely.
• For example, if your job titles are in a coloured text box or your contact details are inside a header, the ATS might not see them at all, which means your application could be flagged as incomplete.
• Even recruiters, when they eventually review CVs, appreciate clarity over clutter. A clean layout lets them scan quickly, find relevant information fast, and make decisions without confusion.

The golden rule? Keep it simple, structured and straight to the point. You can always bring your creativity into your interview or your portfolio.

Step 3: Optimise for Keywords without sounding like a robot

Yes, keywords are important but how you use them is even more critical. You can’t just list the keyword as you found them on the job description, you have to demonstrate them.

Examples of what not to do  (keyword stuffing)

•  “Communication, teamwork, data entry, multitasking, Microsoft Excel.”

Example of what you should do (action + context + keyword):

• “Worked closely with a five-person team to manage and update Excel-based inventory records, ensuring accuracy during monthly audits.”

Here’s how to do it:

• Use action verbs like led, coordinated, created, improved, supported, designed, or resolved.
• Quantify your impact wherever possible: “Reduced data entry errors by 20%.” or “Handled 100+ customer queries weekly with 98% satisfaction rate.”
• Tailor each bullet to reflect what the employer is asking for.

Goal: Don’t just list your skills, prove them in action. AI systems look for the right keywords, but real hiring decisions are made by people who want to see how you’ve applied those skills. Instead of just saying you’re “a good communicator” or “team-oriented,” give examples that demonstrate it. When you describe the context, actions and results of your work, you not only pass the AI test, you impress the human reader with your value.

Step 4: Write a professional summary that sounds like you

This is your moment to introduce yourself, briefly and authentically. The Professional Summary sits right at the top of your CV and gives both the bot and the human a taste of your value.

Keep it:

• Short and punchy (2–4 lines).
• Specific to your experience (mention years, industries, strengths).
• Sprinkled with personality (one line that reflects who you are).

Example

• “Organised and energetic office administrator with 5+ years’ experience supporting busy legal teams. Skilled in calendar management, MS Office, and client communication. Outside of work, I run a weekly community food drive in Durban.”

Goal: Capture the recruiter’s attention from the start by blending professional credibility with a hint of your personality. A strong, authentic summary shows you’re not just qualified but also someone worth getting to know.

Technology helps but people still hire people

While it’s essential to understand how AI and ATS systems work, it’s just as important to remember that real people still make the final hiring decisions. Tools may help recruiters sort through applications faster, but they don’t replace human judgment, instinct, or connection.

At Greys Recruitment Agency, we embrace the efficiencies that technology offers, but we don’t rely on it alone. Every CV we review is evaluated by experienced professionals who understand that a great candidate is more than just a keyword match. We look for skill, potential and personality, things no algorithm can truly measure.

So, as a jobseeker, make sure your CV speaks the language of AI and reflects who you truly are. Use the tips we’ve shared to craft an application that gets noticed but never lose sight of your unique strengths and the human touch that makes you hire able.

And if you need a recruitment agency who values people first, you’ll find it with Greys. Let’s find your next job opportunity together.