Breaking into the financial planning sector requires more than just relevant qualifications and experience; it demands a strategic approach to your job application process. One crucial element is ensuring that your CV is optimised for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These systems are used by employers to filter and rank job applications, making it essential to understand how they work and how to tailor your CV to pass through their filters. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to build an ATS-friendly CV that will help you stand out in the competitive world of financial planning.
Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems
Applicant Tracking Systems are software tools that employers use to streamline the recruitment process. They scan CVs for specific keywords, skills, and qualifications that match the job description. ATS then rank the CVs based on their relevance, which helps recruiters manage large volumes of applications more efficiently. To get past this initial screening, your CV must be tailored to meet the specific requirements of these systems.
Key Elements of an ATS-Friendly CV
1. Use a Simple, Clean Format
What to Do:
- Stick to a straightforward layout with standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri.
- Use clear section headings such as “Professional Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” and “Certifications.”
- Avoid using tables, graphics, or unconventional formats that can confuse ATS software.
Why It Matters:
Complex formatting can cause parsing errors in ATS, leading to your CV being misinterpreted or discarded. A clean, simple layout ensures that all your information is correctly interpreted by the system.
2. Incorporate Relevant Keywords
What to Do:
- Carefully review the job description to identify key terms and phrases.
- Integrate these keywords naturally throughout your CV, especially in the “Professional Experience” and “Skills” sections.
- Focus on industry-specific terms related to financial planning, such as “financial analysis,” “investment strategies,” “risk management,” “portfolio management,” and “client relations.”
Why It Matters:
ATS systems rank CVs based on keyword matches with the job description. Including the right keywords increases the likelihood of your CV making it through the initial screening process.
3. Tailor Your CV for Each Application
What to Do:
- Customise your CV for each job application, highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences.
- Use language and keywords that mirror the job posting.
- Emphasise your qualifications and achievements that align with the specific requirements of the job.
Why It Matters:
A tailored CV shows your genuine interest in the role and your attention to detail, making it more likely to pass through ATS filters and catch the eye of recruiters.
Structuring Your CV for ATS Success
Professional Experience
What to Do:
- Use bullet points to list job responsibilities and achievements.
- Start each bullet point with a strong action verb (e.g., “Managed,” “Prepared,” “Analysed”).
- Quantify your achievements with numbers and percentages where possible (e.g., “Developed financial plans for clients with portfolios exceeding $1 million,” “Increased client retention by 20% through personalised financial strategies”).
Example:
Financial Planner
ABC Financial Services, London, UK
June 2020 – Present
- Developed customised financial plans for clients with portfolios exceeding $1 million, focusing on investment strategies and risk management.
- Conducted detailed financial analyses to identify opportunities for wealth growth and risk mitigation.
- Increased client retention by 20% through personalised financial strategies and exceptional client service.
Why It Matters:
Clear, concise bullet points make it easier for ATS software to parse your information. Quantifying your achievements demonstrates the impact of your work, making your CV more compelling.
Education and Certifications
What to Do:
- List your educational background, including degrees obtained, institutions attended, and graduation dates.
- Highlight relevant coursework, honours, or distinctions.
- Include any relevant certifications or training.
Example:
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Finance
University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
Graduated: June 2018
Certifications:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level I
Why It Matters:
Education and certifications are crucial in financial planning. Listing them clearly ensures the ATS can recognize your qualifications and match them to the job requirements.
Skills
What to Do:
- Create a dedicated skills section near the top of your CV.
- Include both hard skills (e.g., financial analysis, investment strategies) and soft skills (e.g., client relations, communication).
- Use keywords from the job description.
Example:
Skills:
- Financial Analysis
- Investment Strategies
- Portfolio Management
- Risk Management
- Retirement Planning
- Stockbroking
- Investment Banking
- Effective Communication
Why It Matters:
A skills section allows the ATS to quickly identify your core competencies. Including both technical and soft skills provides a well-rounded view of your abilities.
Additional Tips for an ATS-Friendly CV
Use Standard Section Headings
What to Do:
- Stick to conventional section headings like “Professional Experience,” “Education,” “Skills,” and “Certifications.”
- Avoid creative headings that might confuse the ATS.
Why It Matters:
Standard headings help ATS software categorise your information correctly, improving the chances of your CV being processed accurately.
Avoid Using Tables and Columns
What to Do:
- Use simple formatting without tables or multiple columns.
- Stick to a single-column layout for ease of parsing.
Why It Matters:
Tables and columns can cause parsing errors in ATS, leading to crucial information being missed. A single-column format is more ATS-friendly.
Save Your CV in the Right File Format
What to Do:
- Save your CV as a .docx or .pdf file.
- Check the job posting for any specific instructions regarding file format.
Why It Matters:
Some ATS systems prefer specific file formats. Ensuring your CV is in a compatible format prevents it from being rejected due to technical issues.
Proofread Thoroughly
What to Do:
- Use spell check and grammar check tools.
- Review your CV for any typos or formatting errors.
- Consider having a friend or mentor review it as well.
Why It Matters:
Even minor errors can impact the professionalism of your CV. A thoroughly proofread CV demonstrates attention to detail, a key skill in financial planning.
Expert Advice from Graduate Financial Recruitment
At Graduate Financial Recruitment, we offer comprehensive resources and personalised guidance to help you craft an ATS-friendly CV that stands out. Our services include:
- Downloadable CV Templates: Access finance-specific templates designed to optimise your CV for success in financial planning roles.
- Professional CV Review: Get expert feedback on your CV to ensure it meets industry standards and ATS requirements.
- Career Coaching: Book face-to-face or online meetings for tailored advice on career advancement and job applications.
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Final Thoughts
Breaking into the financial planning sector requires more than just academic qualifications. By understanding how ATS works and tailoring your CV accordingly, you can significantly enhance your chances of landing your desired role. Focus on creating a clear, keyword-rich CV that highlights your relevant skills and experiences, and remember to customise it for each job application.
For more expert CV advice and personalised career guidance, contact us at Graduate Financial Recruitment. We’re here to help you navigate the path to a successful career in financial planning.
