WTF is an applicant tracking system anyways?

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Let’s dive into applicant tracking systems

When I was a teenager looking for my first job, I remember walking into places like Sportchek (Canadian sports retailer for my non-Canadian readers) and McDonald’s with a paper resume.

Those days are long gone.

Welcome to the digital age of job applications, where your resume's first impression is made on a computer.

Today, I’m diving into the world of Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), with a special focus on one of the most popular platforms: Workday.

What exactly is an ATS?

Imagine you've just spent hours perfecting your resume.

You've listed your achievements, polished your skills section, and crafted an impeccable summary.

You hit 'submit' and... where does it go? Enter the Applicant Tracking System.

An ATS is like a digital gatekeeper for job applications.

It scans through resumes, identifying key information and matching it to job requirements.

Workday, being a leader in this field, takes this process to a sophisticated level.

Resume keyword "match scores"

When your resume is submitted to an ATS, it's essentially going through an evaluation. Here's a simplified breakdown of what happens:

1. Initial scan: The text on your resume is processed.

2. Parsing: The ATS breaks down your resume into categorized data points.

3. Keyword matching: Your resume's content is compared against the job description and requirements.

Pro tip: Ensure your resume speaks the same language as the job description. Using relevant industry terms and skills can significantly boost your match score.

Context matters more than you think

Workday's ATS doesn't just play a simple matching game with your resume. It's much more nuanced than that.

In a resume, the word "Python" could refer to coding skills or experience handling snakes. Context is crucial, and modern ATS systems understand this.

Workday's system doesn't just look for keywords; it analyzes how you use them. Instead of simply listing "Python" under skills, provide context by using it in your bullet points.

Example: "Developed Python scripts to automate data processing and increased department efficiency by 30%."

Content trumps format and length

Remember the old adage about keeping your resume to one page? Well, times have changed, and so have ATS preferences.

These newer systems are primarily concerned with content first, layout second (older systems didn’t have the luxury of this, and often mis-read resumes with too much formatting or not the right layout).

Newer ATS are designed to extract relevant information regardless of formatting.

This means you have more freedom with resume length and structure.

However, keep in mind that while the ATS might not care about aesthetics, the human recruiters who eventually review your application certainly do.

Aim for a balance: comprehensive content in a clean, readable format.

The human element of the whole process

Before you start thinking that software has taken over the hiring process entirely, remember this:

There are still humans involved, and they play a lead role.

The ATS is like a fancy filter, helping recruiters manage large volumes of applications efficiently.

It makes the initial matches, but human recruiters make the final decisions.

While optimizing for ATS is important, don't forget to infuse your resume with elements of your unique professional personality.

Pitfalls of automated screening 👇

Striking the right balance

Here are the key points you should take away from this:

1. Keywords are important. Use them strategically BUT in context.

2. Demonstrate your skills with specific examples and achievements.

3. Don't stress too much about length or other minute details; focus on quality content first.

4. Remember the human element. Your resume should appeal to both the ATS and the recruiter.

5. Looking beyond the ATS can often yield results. Network within your target companies and reach out to employees or hiring managers directly when possible. A personal connection can often bypass the digital screening process.

Remember that the ATS is a tool designed to help streamline the hiring process.

If you understand the basics of how it works, you can tailor your application strategy for better results.

Approach each application with a blend of ATS optimization and genuine representation of your professional self.

Best of luck with your job search, and may your applications always make it past the ATS!

I’m gonna leave you with these stories from this week…