Getting Over the Hurdle of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
Being able to pass through the application gatekeeper is tough, especially when that gatekeeper is often not a human, but rather a system of algorithms that operates based on cross analyzing your resume against a job description. Welcome to the world of ATS, also known as applicant tracking systems.
The purpose of ATS is fairly straightforward. Instead of having a human comb through hundreds (or maybe even thousands) of resumes, let’s leave that to the technology. But tech isn’t perfect, and sometimes this leaves qualified candidates getting placed into the discard pile immediately.
So, how might you outsmart ATS? Fortunately, someone has already thought of this problem, and there are tools out there that you can leverage. One tool in particular that I recently learned about is JobScan. JobScan is an online tool that allows you to paste your resume as well as the job description you are interested in. The scan tool produces a resume match rate based on how well your resume matches up to the job description. And voila! Now you have some evidence to begin iterating on your storytelling capabilities.
JobScan’s match rate is based on four priorities, including hard skills, education level, job title, soft skills, and other keywords. I love the idea that this tool can assist you with matching your skills to various job roles. JobScan does have a variety of plans to choose from, ranging from Free to Monthly.
Technology is great, but there’s also another way to work around pesky ATS. It’s called networking and there’s a ton of it happening on LinkedIn every day! If you’re excited about a job prospect and just submitted your application, it doesn’t hurt to reach out to the hiring manager (or recruiter) for the company. Connect with them and drop a note — mention your interest, send over your resume, or even ask to jump on a quick call. Remember, you are your own advocate, so give it all you’ve got! The worst thing that could happen? Nothing. And perhaps this might give you enough information to know that the company may not be a good match after all!
Let’s Talk About It
Do you have any experience with ATS? What’s your process?