NEWS
8 Things You Need To Know About Applicant Tracking Systems
In today’s highly competitive job market, the use of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) has become essential for recruiters and hiring managers. These systems are designed to help manage the large volume of job applications received for job openings. But what exactly are ATSs and how do they work? Here are 8 things you need to know about Applicant Tracking Systems.
What is an Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software application used by recruiters and hiring managers to manage job applications and candidate information. ATSs are designed to streamline the recruitment process from posting job ads to reviewing applications and selecting candidates for interviews. ATSs can be used for a variety of recruitment tasks, including tracking candidate data, managing job postings, scheduling interviews, and managing onboarding processes.
How do Applicant Tracking Systems work?
ATSs work by scanning and analyzing resumes and job applications using specific keywords and phrases related to the job opening. These keywords are used to determine whether a candidate’s skills and experience match the requirements of the job. ATSs also allow recruiters and hiring managers to rank and sort applications based on various criteria, such as education, experience, and location.
Once the application has been processed, the ATS creates a digital profile for each candidate, which includes their application and resume data. This information is stored in a database, which recruiters and hiring managers can access and use to review applications and shortlist candidates for interviews.
What are the benefits of using an Applicant Tracking System?
One of the main benefits of using an ATS is that it can save recruiters and hiring managers time and effort by automating many of the tasks involved in the recruitment process. ATSs can help to improve the quality of hires by ensuring that only the most qualified candidates are considered for the job. Additionally, ATSs can help to reduce recruitment costs by minimizing the need for advertising and other recruitment-related expenses.
ATSs can also help recruiters and hiring managers comply with equal employment opportunity regulations. By standardizing the recruitment process, ATSs can ensure that all candidates are evaluated objectively and that no one is excluded from consideration based on discriminatory factors such as race, gender, or age.
What are the drawbacks of using an Applicant Tracking System?
One of the drawbacks of using an ATS is that it can sometimes exclude highly qualified candidates who do not use the specific keywords and phrases that the ATS is programmed to recognize. This means that candidates who are not familiar with the ATS may be disadvantaged in the recruitment process, even if they have the necessary qualifications and experience for the job.
ATSs can also be biased against certain groups of candidates, such as those with non-traditional work experience or those who come from diverse backgrounds. This is because ATSs may not be able to accurately capture the nuances of a candidate’s experience or qualifications, and may instead focus solely on keyword matching.
Additionally, some ATSs can be difficult to use and may require extensive training for recruiters and hiring managers. This can be a barrier to adoption, especially for smaller organizations or those without dedicated recruitment teams.
What are the features of an Applicant Tracking System?
ATSs typically include features such as resume parsing, job posting and advertising, candidate management and tracking, interview scheduling, and reporting and analytics. Some ATSs may also offer additional features such as social media integration, background screening, and reference checking.
Resume parsing is the process by which the ATS extracts relevant information from a candidate’s resume and adds it to their digital profile. Job posting and advertising features allow recruiters and hiring managers to create and post job ads on various job boards and social media platforms.
Candidate management and tracking features allow recruiters and hiring managers to track the status of each candidate’s application, as well as any notes or feedback they may have provided during the recruitment process. Interview scheduling features allow recruiters and hiring managers to schedule and manage candidate interviews, often using automated email reminders and calendar integrations
Reporting and analytics features allow recruiters and hiring managers to track recruitment metrics such as time-to-hire, candidate sources, and applicant demographics. This data can be used to identify areas for improvement in the recruitment process and to make data-driven hiring decisions.
How do you optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems?
To optimize your resume for ATSs, it’s important to use relevant keywords and phrases related to the job you are applying for. This means carefully reading the job description and tailoring your resume to highlight your relevant skills and experience.
Avoid using complex formatting, graphics, or tables in your resume, as these can confuse the ATS and result in your application being rejected. Instead, use a simple, clean format with standard fonts and bullet points to make it easy for the ATS to scan and parse your resume.
Finally, be sure to save your resume in a compatible file format, such as PDF or Word, and to use a clear and descriptive file name that includes your name and the job title.
How can you stand out in the Applicant Tracking System process?
While it’s important to optimize your resume for ATSs, it’s also important to remember that recruiters and hiring managers will ultimately be reviewing your application. To stand out in the recruitment process, focus on creating a strong personal brand that showcases your unique skills and experience.
Use your cover letter and any additional application materials to highlight your achievements and demonstrate your passion for the job and the company. Follow up with recruiters and hiring managers after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the role and to ask any questions you may have about the recruitment process.
When selecting an ATS, it’s important to consider factors such as cost, ease of use, integration with other HR systems, and customer support. It’s also important to ensure that the ATS you choose is compliant with relevant data protection and privacy regulations.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Applicant Tracking Systems can be a powerful tool for recruiters and hiring managers, helping to streamline the recruitment process and improve the quality of hires. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential drawbacks of using an ATS, such as bias and keyword-matching limitations. By optimizing your resume for ATSs and focusing on creating a strong personal brand, you can increase your chances of standing out in the recruitment process and landing your dream job.
Umar Nisar was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Umar Nisar has contributed to many online publications including PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Umar Nisar earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Umar Nisar follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.
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