Applicant Tracking Systems The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Applicant Tracking Systems The Good, the Bad, and the UglyApplicant Tracking Systems The Good, the Bad, and the Uglyautomates recruitment tracking by handling job applications and resume data electronically.A majority of companies use applicant tracking ordnungsprinzips due to the sheer volume of interest they have in each and every position open in their organization. Heres what you need to know about applicant tracking systems (the good, the bad, and the ugly)- and how to beat themThe GoodIt can get you hired faster. Larger organizations are especially fond of using applicant tracking systems since it makes the hiring process faster. After all, when a company is vetting candidates for multiple positions simultaneously, the manpower and budget might not simply be available to process applications quickly. When a company uses an ATS, you may have a betterchance of hearing back quickly since its not justone poor hiring manager who has to weed through endless applications.The BadIts ke yword-sensitive. While applicant tracking systems are a huge benefit for businesses in terms of streamlining the interviewing process, there are some unfortunate drawbacks to using the system for job seekers. For example, if your resume and titel letter dont have the necessary keywords that the ATS is searching for, your application could be rejected- even if you are qualified.The UglyIt doesnt allow your personality to shine through. Beyond the basic information that your resume and cover letter must contain, its important to let employers get a glimpse of who you really are, both as a potential new hire and as a person. Problem is, the ATS is solely scanning to see if youre a match for the job, not if youre witty or if you have a good sense of humor. Since it doesnt focus on personality, your application could be passed over.So how can you get your application through an ATS? While there is no magic formula for beating the system, there are steps to take that can help get your app lication through the applicant tracking system and into the hands of HR personnel.Here are five ways to help pass through applicant tracking systems1. Read job descriptions thoroughly. When you read a job description, dont just scan it and submit your application. Pick apart every single aspect of the job listing. Look for keywords, basic job titles, and required experience. Why? These words are the keywords that the applicant tracking system will be scanning submissions for. So be sure to sprinkle them in various parts of your job application so that the ATS will plektron them up- and pass you through to the next round.2. Customize your cover letter and resume. When submitting to an applicant tracking system, make sure to personalize your cover letter and resume for every job you apply to. Edit your documents in a way that will professionally use the keywords found in the job description. Having those keywords in your cover letter and resume will allow the applicant tracking system to rank you higher and qualify you for a job interview.3. Complete all fields.If you thought that you could pick and choose which parts of an online application to answer, think again. Every single field of the online application should be filled out with correct and error-free information. Leaving gaps in your application could cause it to be rejected, which is the last thing you want, especially if youve spent a lot of time customizing your resume and cover letter. So review your application to ensure that its complete and as perfect as possible.4. Dont use PDF files, tables, or graphics.While you might be tempted to fill your application with fancy schmancy charts and tables, its best to stick to the basics. Remember, the easier it is to scan, the better your chances that the online application will make it further into the process. PDF files are not always recognizable and the system cannot read tables or graphics since they analyze the information differently than humans. When it comes to applicant tracking systems, its better to submit your keyword-rich resume and cover letter as a Word doc.5. Use basic HR wording.The applicant tracking system isnt a fan of flowery language. When penning your application, keep it basic and to the point. Use words and phrases such as work experience, education, skills, and certifications. While it may seem like youre submitting a boring application, its better to submit a straightforward application that the applicant tracking system approves of rather than rejects outright.Wish you could talk through your job search and career questions with someone?SIGN UP FOR CAREER COACHINGJennifer Parris contributed to this post.This is a version of a post that was