What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?
When applying for nursing positions in New Zealand or Australia, your CV and cover letter may first be scanned by an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). Health boards, hospitals, and aged care facilities use this software to shortlist candidates efficiently. The ATS checks your documents for keywords, formatting, and clarity—and may automatically reject applications that look irrelevant, poorly structured, or machine-generated.
How the ATS Works
1. Keywords
Nursing-related terms such as clinical assessment, patient safety, aged care, infection prevention, medication administration, teamwork, and evidence-based practice are scanned. These are just examples—you should research relevant nursing keywords matching your scope of work. Missing these can result in rejection.
2. Formatting
Complicated layouts, graphics, or columns may confuse the ATS. Stick to a clean, single-column layout.
3. Headings
Use clear sections like Work Experience, Education, Professional Registration (NCNZ/AHPRA/NMC), and Clinical Skills.
4. AI-Generated Content
Some ATS tools now detect AI-like writing patterns (generic wording, lack of personal detail, or unusual phrasing). If your CV feels “robotic” or overly templated, it may be flagged or ranked lower. Human recruiters also notice this.
Tips for Writing an ATS-Friendly Nursing Application
- Research first: Match keywords directly from the job description. For New Zealand, refer to the NCNZ Standards of Competence; for Australia, align with AHPRA/NMC competencies and standards.
- Be authentic: You can use AI tools to draft ideas, but always personalise your CV with your own clinical experiences, ward achievements, and patient-care examples. Add only authentic details that can be verified with employer references.
- Keep formatting simple: Avoid tables, logos, or images. Use bullet points for your nursing duties and achievements.
- Use full words: Write Registered Nurse (RN) rather than just RN. Acronyms like ICU, CPR, IV are fine, but expand them at least once.
- Choose readable fonts: Stick with Arial, Calibri, Verdana, or Helvetica.
- State your registration clearly: Include your NCNZ or AHPRA/NMC registration number or current status (e.g., “NCNZ Registration in progress”). This is a crucial ATS keyword.
- Save in the right format: Use PDF unless the employer requests Word.
Final Note
ATS screening is not just about passing a machine filter—it’s about showing you are clinically competent, genuine, and aligned with nursing standards in New Zealand and Australia. Use technology wisely, but let your authentic nursing journey stand out.