Everything You Need to Know About Digital Applications and ATS

Online or digital applications are supposed to make job searches easier. Although it obviates perusing paper classified ads, the massive amounts of information you have to input while applying for a job online led to the advent of applicant tracking systems used by employers. Like it or not, these software programs are here to stay, especially at larger companies. Learn how to deal with these programs so you can break through to an interview.

Why Applicant Tracking Systems?

Applicant tracking systems help employers efficiently compile data and organize information so they can see who are the best candidates for a position. Human resources departments use this type of software to set criteria for ranking candidates, enter important keywords that relate to the job description and use the program to analyze a person's resume. The idea is that each candidate receives a ranking from the software. Human resources and recruiters can then take the rankings and decide which candidates to investigate further. These systems save time and money so personnel don't have to go over every piece of information on a candidate.

Trends and Statistics

A survey conducted by Capterra shows applicant tracking systems are here to stay. Nearly 75 percent of recruiters use this type of tool to vet candidates. As many as 94 percent of firms that utilize the software believe it has improved the recruiting and application process. Unfortunately, these programs are not cure-alls for massive amounts of information received from candidates.

A survey from Jibe shows that 80 percent of job seekers find digital applications too stressful to complete. Around 60 percent of respondents feel that filling out online forms for student loans and mortgages are easier than applying for a job.

Snafus

There are a few snafus when it comes to applicant tracking systems. Those difficulties make it hard for job seekers to apply for jobs, but it also creates problems for employers trying to find qualified candidates. A survey from CareerBuilder found 60 percent of job applicants quit in the middle of the process because it was too time-consuming. Forbes magazine examined several studies that said tracking systems fail to catch the most qualified candidates for a job 75 percent of the time, due to how the software processes information.

Solutions

Take matters into your own hands when it comes to landing a dream job. Don't fully rely on software to forward your glowing resume to the right person. Instead, research the company and send a resume to the person responsible for hiring you. Better yet, network within the companies that interest you the most.

If you still have to get through an applicant tracker, use a few strategies to make your resume stand out from the rest. Adapt your resume to the job description and tailor each resume to the specific employer. Find the most relevant keywords in the job description and put those in your resume. When listing former employers, list the employer names first, followed by the dates of employment. Avoid using resume templates and PDFs as these programs may confuse tracking software.

When it comes down to it, applicant tracking systems are just one way employers find candidates. You can either adapt to these programs or just go straight to a human to get noticed and move to the interview phase.

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