What is an applicant tracking system? Does it improve hiring?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a recruiting software that streamlines the hiring processes. It collects, organises, and tracks applicants throughout the hiring cycle.

These systems make hiring more efficient and less laborious for both recruitment teams and candidates.

Using a central candidate database, organisations can automate various tasks, such as

• Posting job adverts
• Screening applications
• Scheduling interviews
• Managing communications with applicants

An ATS often uses algorithms to filter and rank candidates. This ensures that the most relevant applicants are shortlisted for interviews.

As the job market becomes more competitive, an ATS helps companies address talent gaps.

By optimising the entire recruitment process, companies can attract and retain top talent. This results in higher productivity, reduced turnover, and overall business success.

Key features of applicant tracking systems

Job posting and promotion

An ATS simplifies job posting by integrating with job boards and social media platforms. This ensures a broader reach and seamless promotion of job openings.

Candidate relationship management

These systems offer tools to search, tag, filter, and manage candidate information.

Resume parsing and storage

An ATS can automatically parse and store resumes, making candidate data searchable and organised.

Interview scheduling, candidate communication and onboarding

Automated messaging and scheduling tools streamline communication between recruiters and candidates.

Candidate engagement and marketing

Send emails to engage passive candidates in your database and keep them informed of vacancies. Improve the candidate experience with personalised targeting and messaging.

Reporting and analytics

Recruiting analytics to assess key performance metrics and make data-driven decisions.

Benefits of using an ATS platform

Improved efficiency

An ATS streamlines hiring by automating tasks and centralising information. This reduces manual efforts and errors.  

Collaborative hiring

Hiring teams can communicate and track applicants' progress, fostering teamwork and better decision-making.

Better compliance

A centralised platform helps to standardise processes and data storage. This ensures adherence to employment regulations and minimises legal risks.

Reduced time to hire

You can quickly identify, assess, and engage with top talent by automating and streamlining the CV screening process.

More qualified candidates

Advanced filtering and artificial intelligence enable the selection of better-matched candidates.

Selecting the right applicant tracking system

Size and scalability

Consider the needs of your business, focusing on features relevant to its scale and future growth. Ensure the ATS can support your hiring volumes.

Customisation and integration

Choose an ATS with flexibility and integration capabilities. This allows you to adapt to your recruitment process and work with other tools you use.

User experience and support

A good user experience is crucial for both your team and your applicants. Additionally, consider the level of support provided by the ATS vendor.

Pricing and budget

Compare pricing models and determine the most appropriate for your organisation’s budget. Seek cost-effective solutions without compromising on features.

Security and data compliance

Ensure the ATS has robust security measures to protect company and applicant data. This will keep you compliant with relevant data protection regulations.

Improve the candidate journey with better systems and processes

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) streamlines recruitment by organising and tracking job applicants. These systems help companies save time and improve efficiency when dealing with applicants.

ATS tools generally include features like candidate profiles, job listing management, and scheduling. They also facilitate better communication between recruiters and hiring managers. This reduces frustration and missed KPIs.

Adopting an ATS can enhance your talent strategy, leading to better candidates and a smoother hiring experience.