Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are software applications that help recruiters manage job applications and streamline the recruitment process. These systems are designed to save time and improve efficiency by automating many of the manual tasks involved in recruitment, such as resume screening and applicant tracking. In this article, we'll explore how ATS systems process job applications, make recommendations to recruiters, and how you can improve your ranking in these systems.

Firstly, what is an ATS and how do they work?

Resume Screening

The first step in the recruitment process is to screen resumes to identify the most qualified candidates. ATS systems use keyword matching and other algorithms to scan resumes for relevant skills and experience. These systems are designed to identify key words and phrases that match the requirements of the job posting. The system then assigns a score to each resume based on how closely it matches the job requirements. Resumes that meet or exceed the minimum threshold are flagged for further review by the recruiter.

Applicant Tracking

Once a candidate's resume has been identified as a potential match, the ATS system tracks their progress through the recruitment process. The system stores all candidate data, including resumes, cover letters, and interview notes, in a centralised database that can be accessed by recruiters and hiring managers. This allows recruiters to easily track the progress of each candidate, and ensure that they are moving through the recruitment process in a timely manner.

Candidate Ranking

After the initial resume screening, the ATS system ranks candidates based on how closely they match the job requirements. The system uses a variety of factors, including experience, education, and skills, to determine the candidate's overall fit for the job. The system then generates a list of recommended candidates for the recruiter to review. Recruiters can then review the list and make their own recommendations based on their own assessment of each candidate.

Communication

One of the key benefits of an ATS system is that it allows for easy communication with candidates throughout the recruitment process. The system can automatically send emails to candidates to inform them of their status, request additional information, or schedule interviews. This helps to keep candidates engaged and informed throughout the recruitment process, and ensures that recruiters are able to efficiently manage a large volume of applications.

ATS systems are powerful tools that help recruiters manage job applications and streamline the recruitment process. By automating many of the manual tasks involved in recruitment, these systems save time and improve efficiency, while also providing valuable data and insights to recruiters.

So how do you "hack the system" and improve your ranking?

Use Relevant Keywords

One of the most important things you can do to improve your ranking in ATS systems is to use relevant keywords in your resume and cover letter. ATS systems scan job applications for keywords that match the requirements of the job posting. To improve your chances of being selected for further review, make sure that your resume includes keywords that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Remember that keywords could be skills, achievements, or even systems you use regularly.

Customise Your Resume

Another way to improve your ranking in ATS systems is to customise your resume for each job application. This means tailoring your resume to highlight your relevant skills and experience for the specific job you're applying for. By customizing your resume, you can increase your chances of being selected for further review by ATS systems. Read the job advert, and tailor your resume to highlight the key skills that match.

Keep Formatting Simple

While a well-designed resume can help you stand out from the crowd, it's important to keep formatting simple when applying to jobs through ATS systems. Complex formatting, such as graphics, tables, and columns, can confuse ATS systems and cause them to reject your application. Stick to a simple, easy-to-read format to ensure that your application is properly scanned and considered by the ATS system.

Avoid Using Fancy Fonts

Similarly, it's important to avoid using fancy fonts in your resume and cover letter. Stick to standard fonts, such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri, to ensure that your application is properly scanned by ATS systems. Using non-standard fonts can cause the system to reject your application or rank it lower in the applicant pool.

Submit Your Resume as a PDF

When submitting your resume and cover letter through an ATS system, it's recommended that you submit them as a PDF file. This ensures that the formatting of your application is preserved and that it can be properly scanned by the ATS system. Avoid submitting your resume in other formats, such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs, as these formats can sometimes cause issues with the system. Be careful that you don't store your text as an image as ATS systems often can't convert the image back to text, and it could undo all of your hard work.

In conclusion, ATS systems are an important part of the recruitment process, and understanding how they work can help you improve your chances of being selected for further review. By keeping these points in mind when looking for your next role, you are sure to improve your ranking and land your new role.