What is the Applicant Tracking System (ATS)?

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are tools designed to shortlist and screen applicants in the hiring process. They cover different aspects of recruitment and empower the HR team to ensure they are getting the right candidate to fill a vacant position. As a result, ATS can save the HR team a significant amount of time.

How can an ATS enhance the recruitment process for HR professionals?

The hiring process can be quite complex and time-consuming. It can often take up a significant portion of the HR team's efforts. Unlike in the past, hiring decisions today are based on a variety of criteria beyond just qualifications. These include aptitude tests, alignment with organizational culture and ethics, skills assessments, and more. Managing all these factors manually can be overwhelming. However, using an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can streamline the process by automating many repetitive tasks. It allows the HR team to focus on more strategic aspects of hiring.

Applicant Tracking System (ATS) Steps:

  • Job Creation and Communication: A new job opening is created within the organization and communicated to the HR team.
  • Job Posting: The HR team utilizes the ATS to publish the job vacancy on the company website and relevant job portals.
  • Candidate Application: Job seekers registered on job portals or visiting the company website discover the posted position and click apply which is redirected to the ATS.
  • Applicant Screening: The ATS automatically screens all applications based on pre-defined criteria (keywords, skills, experience) set by the HR team. This filters out unqualified candidates and saves time.
  • Match Notification: The ATS identifies and notifies the HR team of applicants who closely match the job requirements and qualifications.
  • Shortlisting and Interviewing: The HR team reviews the shortlisted candidates by the ATS and selects the most suitable ones for further evaluation like additional screening, skills assessments, or interviews.
  • Job Offer Notification: Based on the interview results and candidate evaluation, the HR team finalizes the selection process and sends offer letters to the selected candidates through the platform.