What does an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Do?

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a software application that automates and streamlines various aspects of the recruitment and hiring process. It helps employers manage job applications, screen candidates, and organize recruitment efforts efficiently. Here’s a breakdown of what an ATS does:

1. Job Posting and Distribution

• Create and Post Job Listings: ATS allows recruiters to create job postings and distribute them across multiple job boards, company websites, and social media platforms from a single interface.
• Track Job Posting Performance: The system tracks the performance of job postings, helping recruiters understand which platforms are attracting the most qualified candidates.

2. Resume and Application Collection

• Centralized Application Portal: ATS provides a portal where candidates can submit their applications, resumes, and cover letters.
• Application Data Storage: All applicant data is stored in a centralized database, making it easy to manage and retrieve candidate information.

3. Resume Screening and Filtering

• Keyword and Criteria Matching: The system scans resumes for specific keywords, skills, experience, and qualifications that match the job description.
• Ranking and Scoring: Candidates are ranked or scored based on how well their resumes match the job requirements, helping recruiters focus on the most qualified applicants.
• Eliminating Unqualified Candidates: Resumes that do not meet the minimum criteria can be automatically filtered out, reducing the time spent on unqualified candidates.

4. Applicant Tracking and Communication

• Track Candidate Progress: ATS tracks each candidate’s journey through the recruitment process, from initial application to final hiring decisions.
• Automated Communication: The system can send automated emails to candidates, such as application confirmations, interview invitations, and rejection letters.
• Interview Scheduling: Some ATS platforms include tools for scheduling interviews, sending calendar invites, and managing interviewer availability.

5. Collaboration and Workflow Management

• Collaborative Tools: ATS allows hiring teams to collaborate on candidate evaluations by sharing notes, feedback, and interview assessments within the system.
• Workflow Automation: The system automates repetitive tasks, such as sending follow-up emails, moving candidates to the next stage, and updating application statuses.

6. Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure Legal Compliance: ATS helps companies comply with hiring regulations by maintaining detailed records of all candidate interactions and decisions.
• Generate Reports: The system can generate reports on various recruitment metrics, such as time-to-hire, candidate sources, and diversity statistics.

7. Candidate Relationship Management (CRM)

• Build Talent Pools: ATS can store and manage a database of past applicants and potential candidates, allowing recruiters to quickly tap into this talent pool for future job openings.
• Engagement Campaigns: Some ATS platforms offer CRM features that enable recruiters to engage with passive candidates through newsletters, job alerts, or personalized communications.

8. Integration with Other Systems

• HR and Payroll Integration: ATS often integrates with other HR tools, such as payroll systems, onboarding software, and performance management platforms, ensuring a smooth transition from candidate to employee.
• Third-Party Integration: The system may also integrate with background check services, skills assessments, and other third-party tools used in the hiring process.

An Applicant Tracking System is a powerful tool that automates and enhances the recruitment process, making it easier for employers to manage large volumes of applications and streamline their overall hiring workflow.