What it an Applicant Tracking System

More and more companies are using an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to support the recruiting process. It helps them sort through numerous applications very quickly and identify the best candidates for the positions. An ATS scans resume content for specific keywords and decides if the application should be passed along to the recruiter. Even if you’re highly qualified, your resume may not be noticed if it isn’t properly optimized. 

Implications of using Applicant Tracking Systems

There are two issues regarding design: First, some ATS cannot scan PDF documents, so you have to send your resume in Word format. Second, they usually can’t scan a file with more than one column. 

As for content, if your resume doesn’t contain very specific keywords, it is likely to get disqualified. Keywords are words or phrases that indicate desirable skills and characteristics. 

Hiring managers choose keywords for each role and use them when they write job descriptions. Then, they enter these words into the recruiting software that sorts through job applicants and their online social profiles, looking for matches.

If you’re not sure which keywords to include in your resume, start by collecting three to five job descriptions that represent the type of position you’re looking for. Then, copy and paste the job description into a word-cloud generator, such as TagCrowd, to identify the terms that are frequently used to describe your desired positions. Then, incorporate these keywords — the skills and qualifications you have — into your resume and cover letter.

How can you find out if a company uses ATS or not? You can’t! However, you can rely on this rule of thumb: Large companies tend to work with ATS, while small companies do not. If you want to have an amazingly-looking resume, you could hand it out while networking in person or while applying for a position in a small family business. However, if you apply for a role in a large or medium-sized company, be sure to send or upload an ATS-friendly resume.

To learn more about ATS and TagCrowd sign up for our Online Course “How to Land Your Next Job.“