A Student Guide to Applicant Tracking Systems
If you are on the hunt for a new job, there may be something standing in the way of you and your dream position. It prevents up to 95% of applications from ever touching a hiring manager’s desk, and it’s called Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). This software system analyzes multiple components of a job application, filters candidates based on keywords and experiences and passes along only the most promising applications to hiring managers. Luckily, we compiled steps that will help you be in the 5% of applications that passes the ATS and Quinncia is here to help.
What is ATS?
ATS has many functions, including:
- Acting as a job board to post open positions and gather job applications
- Conducting performance assessments, such as resume analyses and video interviews
- Predicting employee performance
The resume analysis function of ATS presents the largest hurdle for job applicants to overcome. On average, 97% of employers require applicants to submit a resume or complete a similar assessment. ATS rejects between 70 – 80% of candidates whose applications are run through the system based on their resumes.
Why do employers use ATS?
Employers use ATS technology to receive and process thousands of applications in a very short amount of time. Company employees spend time evaluating only the most qualified candidates because the ATS rejects candidates automatically. These systems help employers save company resources while still getting the job done.
Common ATS examples
- Indeed.com
- Glassdoor
How to beat the system
You can make many improvements to your resume to give it a higher chance of passing the ATS, including:
- Ensuring that your file format and resume structure is readable by ATS
- Properly formatting section titles, education, and work experience
- Emphasizing your achievements with action verbs and keywords
Checking off all of these items gives your resume a higher chance of passing through the ATS, but it is important that your resume effectively tells your story. Discuss your resume with an advisor who can help you perfectly craft your narrative in an ATS-friendly manner.