In the past, talent acquisition meant combing through resumes, emailing and calling applicants to schedule interviews, and making a log to track where applicants were in the hiring process.

All that has changed with the introduction of applicant tracking systems (ATS). These systems provide a centralized database where an organization can store their job postings, candidate contact information, recruiter activity, communication history, status updates, and results for background checks and test assessments.

ATS systems are beneficial in the hiring process, but they will make the most impact when organizations adhere to best usage practices. Here are some to keep in mind.

Choose the Right System

There are hundreds of ATS providers on the market. You must choose one best suited to your needs considering:

• How many people you hire each year
• Integration with current HR and third-party systems
• Required features
• Access requirements
• Scalability
• Budget
• Mobile capabilities
• Security
• Technical support
• User-friendliness

You should also review each provider based on customer and expert reviews to determine if it’s the right choice for your organization.

Define Your Recruiting Process

Map out the steps of your recruiting process. Customize your system to ensure it aligns with your organizational needs and tracks key metrics.

Human Oversight is Necessary

Modern organizations rely heavily on technology, but they must ensure human oversight in technological processes. This is especially essential in applicant tracking as the system may rely on algorithms and keywords when reviewing resumes. This cold approach could eliminate qualified candidates. Human oversight ensures qualified candidates are not overlooked.

Optimize Your Job Descriptions

Create a clear, concise job description. Include keywords to ensure your ATS system can identify them when scanning resumes. You should also implement systems to ensure candidates are screened effectively.

Ensure a Positive Candidate Experience

Ensure your ATS supports a positive candidate experience. It should provide a simple application process that is easy to navigate. The system should also automatically update candidates on their progress to ensure optimal transparency.

Ensure Data Accuracy

Your system will prioritize candidates based on the data it receives. Ensure your data is accurate for optimal results.

Utilize Analytics

An ATS will provide analytics so you can gain insight into your hiring process. Take advantage of this feature to improve your talent acquisition systems.

Integrate Your ATS with Your HR System

Integrate your ATS with HR systems such as payroll and HRIS to streamline your hiring process. The integration will ensure data is shared across systems. For example, it will ensure candidate data is automatically transferred to the employee database when hiring is complete.

Update the System Regularly

Update the system regularly to ensure it complies with your latest job descriptions, screening criteria, and current recruiting processes.

What Are the Benefits of an Applicant Tracking System?

• Faster Hiring System: Your ATS will speed up your hiring process by contacting candidates through multiple portals. It also automates processes so you hire quickly and can get back on track sooner.
• Better Candidate Experience: The right system will promote a better candidate experience which has a positive influence on your company reputation.
• More Qualified Candidates: An ATS will effectively parse through data to ensure you find the most qualified candidates.
• Increased Hiring Credibility: Candidates will be impressed by your hiring system and feel confident that you are making the right decision.
• Financial Benefits: An ATS takes over processes allowing your HR department to focus on other tasks and be more productive. It also reduces the time you are without talent so you can return to full productivity quickly. These benefits support financial growth.

An ATS is an effective hiring tool, but it can be difficult to implement. You must train employees on new systems and ensure technology is integrated. It also requires a financial investment.

An alternative is to partner with a talent recruiting agency. Stahl Recruiting has the tools required to find the best talent for your organization. We stand out for our high sense of ethics and integrity.