What is an Applicant Tracking System?

An applicant tracking system (ATS) helps companies organize candidates for hiring and recruitment purposes. These systems allow businesses to collect information, organize prospects based on experience and skill set, and filter applicants.

More than 90% of Fortune 500 Companies are currently using an applicant tracking system. While these systems are excellent for storing candidate information, the best ATS systems can track all communications with candidates. This makes it easy to search and filter resumes and other candidate information, decreasing time-to-fill and ensuring that companies get the best candidates for the position.

Are you wondering “how does an applicant tracking system aid an HR manager?” Learn more about what businesses can do with the right ATS system.

What is an applicant tracking system?

An applicant tracking system for recruiters simplifies the recruiting process by using automated intelligence to screen for the best, most qualified candidates. Since many open positions can attract hundreds or even thousands of candidates without the necessary qualifications, this saves companies and recruiters time that would otherwise be spent manually weeding out these candidates.

How do applicant tracking systems work?

Candidates are looking for application processes that are easy and user-friendly. The best applicant tracking systems allow people to easily apply for a position via any device without needing to log in. This means that companies benefit from a larger pool of applicants, which can then be ranked automatically based on skills and experience.

During the recruitment process, applicant tracking systems allow users to submit feedback and notes about a candidate easily. Some of these systems allow for collaboration from a mobile device, making it easy for busy recruiters and hiring managers.

The best ATS software uses the latest technology such as natural language processing and artificial intelligence, to screen and sort candidates’ resumes. These systems scan resumes, look for keyword matches, and use other algorithms for data analysis.

Many applicant tracking systems also integrate with job boards, streamlining job postings.

The benefits of an ATS

There are many benefits of using an ATS, and you can expect to see metrics like time, cost, and candidate quality improve. Interview scheduling is easy with automated emails allowing candidates to choose a time that works for both hiring managers and themselves.

An applicant tracking system can also allow recruiters and hiring managers to see all the information and metrics they need with a click of a button. The best systems include robust, user-friendly dashboards and configurable workflows including key performance metrics and industry benchmarks.

Signs businesses need an applicant tracking system

While companies of all sizes can use applicant tracking systems, they’re particularly useful for businesses that are regularly hiring employees for various positions or those that tend to get large numbers of applicants for each position.

Businesses are likely to see a significant ROI with an applicant tracking system if they’re screening more than 1000 resumes annually. They’ll also benefit from an ATS tracking system if they have a long or convoluted hiring process or experience problems with their recruiting and administration.

Applicant tracking systems can significantly reduce time-to-fill. This means that companies that find it difficult to manage the workload associated with large pools of candidates will find the streamlined process much more effective.

Start using an ATS today

Recruiting new talent for your business can be a major challenge, and you want to be sure you end up with the right choice. Having an online applicant tracking system can help simplify the hiring process and save recruiters and hiring managers a huge amount of stress. Applicant tracking systems can transform that way your business handles recruiting and help you in your search for the perfect new additions for your business. 

Find out how your business can benefit from using Jobvite today or learn more through our How to Choose an ATS guide.