Increasingly big businesses are looking for ways to automate tasks with software. Recruitment is no different and applicant tracking systems (ATS) have been around for quite some time. As application sifting is being handled by machines running software designed to identify keywords, job seekers are having to adapt to get noticed.
What is an Applicant Tracking System?
An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software application used by employers to manage the recruitment process. It automates the collection, sorting, and analysis of CVs and job applications.
For job seekers, understanding ATS is crucial. Knowing how these systems work can significantly increase your chances of getting shortlisted for an interview.
Understanding how ATS works
At its core, an ATS scans resumes and filters applications based on specific criteria set by the employer. These criteria often include keywords related to skills, experience, and qualifications.
When you submit your CV, the ATS parses the document, extracting relevant information such as your contact details, work experience, and education. The system then evaluates this information against the job requirements. If you want your CV to be reviewed by a human it needs to rank highly against the keywords and specified requirements set by the employer.
Getting the keywords right
One of the most critical aspects of getting your CV past an ATS is using the right keywords. To do this correctly you need to properly analyse the job description. The skills and experience should be listed in the advertisement.
Read up about the employer and the type of work they do. Use social media, the company website and any personal contacts you may have. This should give you an idea of the soft skills that might not be listed in the advert or commonly used terms and phrases that may be important to include.
Crafting your CV for ATS
To maximize your chances of passing the ATS filters, you need to format your resume correctly and strategically place keywords.
Use standard headings such as work experience, education and skills. The ATS is likely to be set up for these headings so it will make it easier to identify the right information.
Avoid fancy formating such as tables or including graphics or unusual fonts. The ATS may be confused and that will only result in your CV being rejected.
While you need to ensure that the correct keywords are included in the CV you should be sure to do so naturally. Ultimately, if your CV gets passed the ATS a human will need to read it. If you’ve placed keywords where they don’t belong or over stuffed keywords your CV will look unprofessional.
Instead aim to place the keywords in your job titles, skills section and throughout your work experience descriptions.
Is there a way to ‘game’ applicant tracking systems?
There is no way to ensure an ATS will select your CV to be reviewed by a human. However, you can improve your chances.
Use the exact phrases from the job description
Use the same terms used to describe the skills, experience and knowledge required for the job. There is a good chance the Applicant Tracking Systems will have been set up to recognise these terms. You may want to use your own language to describe how you meet the criteria for the job, but if it doesn’t match what the ATS has been set up to identify you’ll be doing yourself no favours.
Tailor your CV for the job
If you want to your CV to be selected for short-listing you have to pay attention to the detail. Its just not going to work if you simply upload a generic CV because every job will be different. Even the similar ones. The keywords will be specific to the job and employer so don’t miss out with a generic CV.
Synonyms of keywords
Its okay to include other keywords providing you don’t lose specificity. For example, if the job description mentions “communication skills,” you can also use synonyms like “interpersonal skills” or “verbal communication” as appropriate.
Proofreading for errors
Ensure your resume is free of typos and grammatical errors. Mistakes can confuse the ATS and may result in your CV being rejected. Double-check your document before submitting it.
And finally…
Recruitment is becoming more and more automated and Applicant Tracking Systems are increasingly being used by big and medium sized companies. The goal is to get through the ATS filters so your CV lands in front of a human for short-listing. Always keep in mind your audience. Your CV is your sales document. When you’re selling to a machine matching terms is important. Once you get past the ATS hurdle you can use your personal style to sell yourself to the employer at interview.