How to Choose a CV Design: ATS-Friendly vs Designed

PDFly guide · Updated October 2026

The same CV can be read by two very different readers: software that parses it into a database, and a person who skims it for a few seconds. A design that delights one can annoy the other. Here is how to choose.

Route 1: you upload it to a company portal

Many employers use an applicant tracking system (ATS). It reads your file, pulls out your name, jobs and skills, and fills a form. Parsers do best with simple structure: one column, normal headings, plain text.

• Choose the ATS-friendly design in the CV Maker, or Classic or Compact, which are also single flow, text-first layouts.
• Avoid photos, icons and text inside images. A parser cannot read a picture.
• Use standard headings such as Experience, Education and Skills. Creative headings can be skipped.

Route 2: you send it to a person

When a recruiter, manager or contact opens your PDF directly, appearance helps. A confident layout makes it easier to scan and to remember.

• Sidebar designs (Modern, Teal Sidebar, Overview, Soft sidebar) put contact details and skills at the side, so the main column can focus on experience.
• Banner, Bold and Profile lead with a strong header that suits roles where first impressions matter.
• Minimal and Timeline give dates their own column or markers, which helps long careers read clearly.

Should you include a photo?

It depends on the country and the industry. In some regions, including much of the Middle East and parts of Europe, a photo is common. In others, such as the United States and the United Kingdom, employers usually prefer none, partly to reduce bias. When in doubt, check job ads in your field and follow what they ask for. The CV Maker lets you leave it out in every design.

Colour

One accent colour is enough. Dark text on white prints and photocopies well. If your CV may be printed in black and white, pick a darker accent, and check the preview in step 3.

A simple rule

Keep two versions: a plain one for portals and a designed one for people. The CV Maker keeps your details, so switching design takes a click and you can download both.