With over 2500 applicants*, any advice on how to make my CV stand out? E.g. should my CV be in an ATS-compatible format?
Keserie P. asked a question to Simon W.
* LinkedIn applicants for a Transformation role. Is there an advantage to applying early, or are all applications submitted before the deadline treated equally?
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- 5 replies
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- Author: Keserie P.
- Category: Applications, Application advice
- Date asked:
- Last update:
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CTChristopher T. Management System Training And Promotion Executive
Hi Keserie,
This is such a great question! Regarding any application to British Airways we always encourage our applicants to show case their best talents and their unique personality. We understand that every colleague is different and brings unique experience to the table. Regarding specifics to British Airways, I would recommend that your CV is clear, concise and shows what you can contribute to the role. Ensure you have the CV in a word document or PDF for submission. Most roles also will have two application questions to answer as well - these are just as important as your CV as it is your opportunity to really make your skills, motivations and personality stand out.
I hope that helps, and wishing you the best of luck!
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SWSimon W. Talent Manager Ba Digital
Great question! Seeing a high number of applicants can feel daunting, but don’t let it discourage you. The reality is that many applications won’t be suitable for the role and won’t progress further. Instead of focusing on numbers, focus on what you can control, making your CV as strong as possible.
✔ Apply for roles that genuinely match your skills and experience. A well-matched application always has a better chance than a generic one. Back yourself and go for it!
✔ ATS-Compatible Format: Contrary to popular belief, not all ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) automatically reject candidates—including ours. While we use technology to support the process, real people review applications, and the human touch is still very much part of our selection. The best thing you can do is:- Keep your CV simple, well-structured, and free from excessive graphics or complex formatting.
- Use clear headings, bullet points, and standard fonts (Arial, Calibri) for easy readability.
- Tailor your CV to the role, ensuring it highlights your most relevant experience and key skills.
- Use industry-specific keywords naturally to align with the job requirements.
- Keep it concise, ideally 2 pages, with clear, results-driven achievements (e.g., "Led a team of 5 engineers, improving efficiency by 20%").
✔ Stay Focused on What Matters: The number of applicants doesn’t determine your chances, your suitability does. Many applicants won’t be the right fit, so rather than worrying about competition, focus on making your application stand out.
We’re always looking for the best people for the role, and a well-presented, relevant CV gives you the best chance. Best of luck!
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KPKeserie P. Candidate
Thank you so much for your helpful responses and encouraging words! I appreciate the emphasis on showcasing my unique talents and personality and I found the additional information about ATS compatibility very insightful. I am heartened to learn that the human touch is still a vital part of your recruitment process. This truly reflects your commitment to providing an exceptional and personalised recruitment journey for applicants.
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RBRosalie B. Candidate
Hi, how do I find working-from-home jobs with British airways?
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SWSimon W. Talent Manager Ba Digital
Hello Rosalie, thank you for your question.
Many roles at British Airways require being in the office due to the nature of our business, particularly in operational and customer-facing areas. However, we do offer hybrid and part-time opportunities in certain departments, depending on the role and business needs.The best way to find a role that suits your preferences is to regularly check our British Airways Careers website and set up job alerts for positions that match your skills and interests. This way, you'll be notified when relevant opportunities become available.
Hope that helps, and best of luck with your job search!