Applicant Tracking System

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a versatile technology tool that businesses use to manage vacancies and candidate flow throughout the recruitment process. It collects and stores information about your applicants, such as where they were sourced and which stage of the application process they’re in.

Most modern ATS systems are a far cry from a glorified spreadsheet. Nowadays, an ATS includes end-to-end hiring solutions, like scheduling tools, candidate relationship management (CRM) software and can integrate with your human resource information system (HRIS).

An applicant tracking system facilitates the progress of a candidate throughout the recruitment process. When a candidate applies to a job, their information is uploaded to your ATS database. (Typically, this includes details like their contact information, qualifications, and CV.)

Once the candidate is in the database you can use the system to review CVs, distribute automated messages to candidates, schedule interviews and share new-hire paperwork.

Typical process - First, you create the job description, using your ATS to automatically post on job sites and other outlets. As applications come in, you search and sort new applicants and past candidates – who have been saved in your ATS database – to create your initial shortlist. The ATS will have a filtration function to allow you to filter and match candidates with a specific skill set.

Once you’ve created your shortlist, you set up ATS-automated emails inviting applicants to take an online assessment. Not only does this automation save time, but you are able to keep track of each candidate touchpoint.

Once the candidate has entered the ATS and you have secured the data in a compliant manner, your hiring managers/key decision makers can access the profile to identify which candidates pass the initial screening phase and select blocks of time for interviews. Many applicant tracking systems feature automatic scheduling tools or interfaces that allow candidates to log in and select interview times, manage paperwork and view their status.

As interviews progress, the ATS will allow you to track and document outcomes/actions relating to the interview process, allowing a clear record of activity which can be referred to at any point. It basically becomes the epicentre for all recruitment activity and ensures traceability can be accessed easily.

Now you’re ready to make an offer – and your top candidate accepts! In addition to a welcome email from the team, your new employee has new-hire paperwork and payroll information automatically sent to their inbox, thanks to your ATS-HRIS integration.

Why Should I Use An ATS In Recruiting

As the previous scenario illustrates, using a streamlined ATS in recruitment delivers many benefits:

It saves time. Not only does an ATS make your applicant pool easily accessible in an organised, searchable database, it also includes features that automate manual tasks. This allows recruiters to spend more time on high-value activities.
It helps you recruit more effectively. Collaborating and communicating with your talent organisation is easier with a centralised applicant tracking system. Built in analytics show your hiring team which sources are most fruitful, how long applicants take to move through the process and other insightful metrics that can make your recruitment process even more effective.
It improves the candidate experience. An ATS allows you to stay on top of each applicant’s position in the recruitment process. This tracking minimises delays – when candidates don’t hear back from employers. CRM tools, a key component of your ATS, help recruiters follow up in a timely manner and build relationships with clients.

applicant tracking system

What is An ATS?

How Does An ATS Work?

Streamlining The Hiring Process

Why Should I Use An ATS In Recruiting