If you’ve been applying for jobs recently, you likely came up against an ATS, or Applicant Tracking System.
An Applicant Tracking System is the software employers use to manage, automate, and organize the recruitment process to improve efficiency. Unless you’re applying at a very small employer, chances are you’ve been applying through an ATS. These systems enable employers to create job postings and distribute those postings to job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter. After applicants apply for a position and upload their resumes to the ATS, it scans the documents for relevant keywords, assigns scores, and ranks them against other applicants.
Although an ATS works much like a digital filing cabinet for the resumes that employers receive, it’s capable of doing so much more. Because the system stores applicant information, recruiters can search their ATS for candidates with certain experience, skills, and qualifications at any time. This explains why some applicants may receive a phone call from an employer months after they applied! Many systems are set up to communicate with candidates about their status and to notify them when a position has been filled. The systems can even provide reporting and data analytics to employers, such as how long it takes to fill a role (aka “Time to Hire”).
Here are a few other details to share about the ATS:
-There are more than 200 different Applicant Tracking Systems available today; two of the most popular ones include Workday and iCIMS.
-The ATS facilitates team collaboration by providing a single platform for sharing information and notes about candidates.
-The recruiter or hiring manager can include a “knock-out” pre-screening question to filter applicants who do not meet essential job requirements. For example, if current CPR certification is mandatory for candidates and an applicant answers “no” to this question, their resume will not receive further consideration.
-Some studies have indicated that 75% of resumes are rejected by the ATS. Although ATS technology is always improving, at this time, the ATS can only scan a document by reading it from left to right. If your document includes columns, graphics, or information in the headers and footers, the ATS cannot “read” your resume accurately, and it probably won’t be considered by a recruiter or hiring manager.
Navigating the world of Applicant Tracking Systems can feel daunting, but understanding how they work gives you a valuable edge in your job search. By tailoring your resume with relevant keywords, using simple formatting, and aligning your application to each job description, you increase your chances of making it past the ATS and into the hands of a real recruiter. Remember, the goal isn’t just to “beat the system,” but to present your qualifications clearly and effectively so you stand out as a top candidate. With these insights, you’re better equipped to approach your next application with confidence—and get one step closer to landing your ideal job.
Shelley Maley, PHR, GCDFDreamcatcher Career Coaching, LLCwww.dreamcatchercareercoaching.com(610) 663-0585
Communications Chairperson – Pennsylvania Career Development Association (PACDA)
Connect with me on Linkedin:
https://linkedin.com/in/shelleymaleycareercoach