Hello candidate, meet our applicant tracking system!
Given the prevalence of technology in our world, it is critical to communicate digitally in an effective manner. The hiring process is no exception. In the current hiring market, employers can receive thousands of applications for a single job opportunity. How do they manage that volume? They use applicant tracking systems, also known as ATS. Applicant tracking systems are computer software programs that are designed to manage the candidate application process, as most companies don’t have the people power to manually view and then sort every single application that is received. A hiring manager programs criteria (consisting of keywords and phrases) into the system, which then scans each application that is received to identify matches. If there are enough matches, the applicant tracking system moves the candidate along to the next stage. If not, the candidate is eliminated. Yes, candidates can be eliminated by a computer upon the initial scan, so the application materials are never even seen by an actual person at that company or organization! In addition to scanning materials, the applicant tracking system also sorts and ranks applications, then tracks candidates through the entire hiring process. When you apply for a job, expect that you will need to get past the applicant tracking system. Here are some tips that can help!
First of all, create a format for your submission that is applicant tracking system friendly. How can you do this? First of all, follow the format specifically requested in the application instructions. If they want your resume submitted in a Microsoft Word format, submit it in that format and not as a pdf. Avoid fancy resume templates. Some applicant tracking systems can’t read content in text boxes and tables, so use a format that doesn’t include those items. Also, avoid borders or lines that aren’t needed. Use an easy to read font such as Calibri, Arial, Garamond, Courier, Georgia, or Times New Roman. Make sure you don’t have any typos, because the ATS won’t read words that are spelled wrong. You should title your application file using your name, what the document is (resume, cover letter, etc.) and the company name. Lastly, when it comes to formatting, use common resume headings (such as Education, Skills, Work Experience, etc.). Applicant tracking systems are designed to identify content based on sections and then sort it accordingly.
Next, integrate relevant keywords into your application materials. Where can you find these keywords? In the job description! Integrate keywords from the job description that match based on your skills, experience, and qualifications. Remember, the applicant tracking system is looking for specific matches, so use the language you see in the job description. If the description says a qualification is fluency in Microsoft Word, state it as Microsoft Word on your resume and not MS Word, Word, or MS Office. Use the literal language provided by the organization that states exactly what they want. Use acronyms and abbreviations that match what is stated in the job description. If it’s appropriate to integrate the keywords in multiple places on your resume, go for it! You can feature skills in a skills section, but also in an experience or projects section where you explain how you developed or used the skill to accomplish something. Make sure that if you include language and keywords on your resume or in your cover letter, you can back them up. Don’t ever lie!
Lastly, think beyond your resume and cover letter, because that’s what the applicant tracking system may be doing! If a company requires that you complete an online application as part of the hiring process, you must comply. If not, you will be automatically eliminated from consideration. Don’t forget to integrate keywords into your responses and fill out all fields completely. It’s important not to skip questions. Also, some applicant tracking systems automatically connect to LinkedIn to scan your profile as part of the application review process. It’s important to integrate keywords and phrases relevant to your target career fields and jobs into your LinkedIn profile. Employers want to confirm that you are consistent in how you express your skills and abilities, not just plugging in keywords from a job description to get a specific job.
Since there are hundreds of different applicant tracking system software programs, there’s no one formula that will guarantee success. However, by following these tips that are based on best practices, you can significantly increase your chances of moving past the screening rounds to land an interview where you can then wow them and close the deal!
