Applicant Tracking Software (ATS)

An Applicant Tracking System, or ATS, is a software application that helps employers to manage their hiring process. It provides a central database for storing resumes, application forms, and other job-related information, and allows recruiters and hiring managers to search and filter through this information more efficiently. ATSs can also help to automate certain aspects of the recruiting process, such as sending automated emails to candidates or scheduling interviews. 

Employers use ATSs to streamline their hiring process and save time and money. By automating certain aspects of recruiting, they can free up their staff to focus on other tasks, and reduce the risk of human error in the hiring process. ATSs also help employers to stay compliant with labor laws and equal opportunity regulations by ensuring that they have a fair and consistent hiring process. 

However, job seekers often complain that ATSs make it harder for them to get hired. Because ATSs are designed to filter through resumes and other job-related information, they may ignore certain important qualifications or skills that a candidate possesses. This is why it's important for job seekers to tailor their resumes and application materials to the specific job they're applying for, using keywords and phrases that are likely to be recognized by ATSs 

There are many reasons why employers choose to use an ATS: 

• Managing a large volume of applicants.

• Automating certain aspects of the recruiting process.

• Storing candidate information in a central database.

• Eliminating paper resumes and job applications.

• Reducing the risk of human error and bias in the hiring process.

• Ensuring compliance with labour laws and equal opportunity regulations.

1. Use Keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords throughout your CV/resume to match the job description and increase your chances of getting selected by the ATS.

2. Keep formatting simple: Avoid using fancy fonts, graphics, and complex formatting. Stick to a simple and easy-to-read format for the ATS to parse your information easily.

3. Avoid images and logos: Applicant tracking systems often struggle to read images and logos, so it's best to avoid them altogether.

4. Be consistent: Keep a consistent format throughout your CV/resume with regards to headings, font sizes, bullet points, and spacing.

5. Use bullet points: Use bullet points to make your information easy to skim and digest for both the ATS and the human recruiter.

6. Submit your resume in a compatible format: Submit your CV/resume in a compatible format such as Microsoft Word or PDF to ensure it can be easily read by the ATS.

7. Use relevant job titles: Use relevant job titles rather than generic ones to increase the relevance of your resume.

8. Focus on achievements: Highlight your achievements rather than just your responsibilities. This can make you stand out to both the ATS and recruiters.

9. Tailor your CV/resume: Tailor your resume for each job application to ensure it matches the specific job description accurately.

10. Proofread: Make sure to proofread your resume, checking for spelling and grammar errors, to increase its chances of getting through the ATS and catching the recruiter's attention.