In the competitive world of investment management, having a standout CV is crucial. However, crafting a CV that not only catches the eye of recruiters but also passes through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) can be challenging. ATS software is designed to streamline the hiring process by scanning and filtering CVs based on specific criteria, often before a human ever sees them. This guide will provide you with the strategies needed to tailor your CV for ATS in the investment management sector, ensuring your application makes it to the top of the pile.
Understanding the Role of ATS in Recruitment
Applicant Tracking Systems are used by many companies to manage the influx of job applications. These systems scan CVs for keywords, qualifications, and relevant experience, ranking them based on how well they match the job description. An ATS-optimised CV increases your chances of getting noticed and securing an interview.
Key Elements of an ATS-Optimised CV for Investment Management
1. Use Standard Formatting
What to Do:
– Stick to a simple, clean layout using standard fonts like Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri.
– Use traditional section headings such as “Professional Experience,” “Education,” and “Skills.”
– Avoid using tables, graphics, and unconventional formats.
Why It Matters:
ATS software can misinterpret complex formats, causing important information to be overlooked. A straightforward layout ensures your CV is parsed correctly.
2. Incorporate Relevant Keywords
What to Do:
– Analyse the job description for key terms and phrases.
– Include these keywords naturally throughout your CV, particularly in the “Professional Experience” and “Skills” sections.
– Focus on industry-specific terms relevant to investment management, such as “asset allocation,” “portfolio management,” and “risk assessment.”
Why It Matters:
ATS systems prioritise CVs that closely match the job description. Using the right keywords increases your CV’s visibility and ranking.
3. Tailor Your CV for Each Application
What to Do:
- Customise your CV for each job application.
- Highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific investment management role you’re applying for.
- Mirror the language used in the job posting.
Why It Matters:
A tailored CV demonstrates your interest and suitability for the role, making it more likely to pass through ATS filters and impress recruiters.
Structuring Your CV for Investment Management Roles
Professional Experience
What to Do:
- Use bullet points to list job responsibilities and achievements.
- Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb (e.g., “Managed,” “Developed,” “Increased”).
- Quantify your achievements with numbers and percentages where possible (e.g., “Increased portfolio value by 20% over 12 months”).
Example:
Portfolio Manager
XYZ Asset Management, London, UK
June 2021 – Present
- Managed a client portfolio worth £50 million, providing strategic investment advice and asset allocation.
- Developed and implemented investment strategies that increased portfolio returns by 15% annually.
- Conducted risk assessments and adjusted portfolios to mitigate potential losses, enhancing client satisfaction.
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 certifications such as Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA).
- Include any relevant coursework, honours, or distinctions.
Example:
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Finance
University of London, London, UK
Graduated: May 2020
Certifications:
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA)
Why It Matters:
Education and certifications are crucial in investment management. 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, portfolio management) and soft skills (e.g., communication, client relationship management).
- Use keywords from the job description.
Example:
Skills:
– Asset Allocation
– Portfolio Management
– Risk Assessment
– Financial Analysis
– Client Relationship Management
– Investment Strategies
– 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 investment management.
Transform Your CV into a Powerful Tool for Career Advancement
At Graduate Financial Recruitment, we offer expert advice and downloadable finance-specific CV templates to help you craft a standout CV. Whether you’re aiming for a role in investment banking, financial planning, or ESG analysis, our resources are designed to optimise your CV for success.
Expert CV Advice for Standing Out
- Access to downloadable, finance-specific CV templates.
- Optimise your CV for success in investment banking, financial planning, ESG analysis, and much more.
- Premium service for standout CVs in multiple remote and on-site roles.
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Final Thoughts
Crafting an ATS-optimised CV for an investment management role requires careful attention to detail and a strategic approach. By following these steps, you can create a CV that not only passes through ATS filters but also captures the attention of human recruiters.
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 finance.
