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CV Format for Google, Amazon, Microsoft and Big Tech

Big tech uses ATS too

Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Meta and Apple all use applicant tracking systems. Amazon uses Kenexa. Google uses a proprietary system. Both score CVs before a recruiter reads them.

The format big tech wants

**One page for under 5 years experience, two pages maximum for senior roles.** Big tech recruiters are explicit about this.

**Strong bullet points with numbers.** Amazon's Leadership Principles are reflected in what recruiters look for: ownership, measurable impact, scale. Every bullet should follow "did X, resulting in Y (measured by Z)".

**No objective statements.** Remove "I am a passionate developer seeking...". Start directly with your most recent role.

**Education at the bottom.** Unless you are a recent graduate, work experience comes first.

**Keywords from the job description.** Google and Amazon job descriptions contain the exact keywords their ATS scores against. Use them verbatim.

Common mistakes on big tech applications

  • Listing responsibilities instead of achievements
  • No numbers anywhere on the CV
  • Using a two-column template (common on Canva — avoid these)
  • Submitting PDF when the portal asks for Word