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Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are a type of software application used by some organizations to manage their recruiting and hiring processes. The software is used to filter filters applicants by using keywords it scans for in application documents (e.g., résumé and cover letter). Key words Keywords are specific terms or phrases that are used to communicate essential information about the job, its requirements and the qualifications sought in potential candidates. By understanding how ATS works and following the tips below, you may improve the chances of having your job application successfully pass ATS criteria.
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Tip: While these systems help to streamline and make the hiring process more efficient, they do not entirely remove the human being from the equation. Recruiters or hiring managers set the criteria ATS use to sort applications and often review applications as part of the hiring process as well. So, while it’s a good idea to optimize your application documents for ATS, it’s important to remember your main audience: the hiring manager! For tips on how to create creating persuasive documents, check out the guides for writing résumés and cover letters. |
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If you’re applying to a mid-size to large organization, chances are that some sort of ATS is being used. The technology is readily available and often free to use.
If you’re asked to answer a series of questions as part of the application, an ATS may be used to screen applications.
If an application is available on a website or with an easy apply button, it is likely that an ATS is used.
If you are redirected to a different webpage while applying, ATS may be involved. Check the webpage or vendor branding information. For example, Workday, Bamboo HR and ADP or advertisements like “powered by XYZ.”
Each ATS is unique, and generally, jobseekers will not know which system is being used and what the system is configured to prioritize. It’s safe to assume that if you are applying to a large organization, they are likely using some form of ATS. Here are some tips for successfully navigating an ATS to get you started:
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