Good applicant tracking systems can help recruiters tremendously. These systems can also be extremely effective for smaller companies without a human resource manager. With these systems it is easier to bring the best candidates to the top of the pile.
The main idea of these systems is to provide a location and database for hiring and recruiting efforts, all in one place. Tracking systems help manage resumes and all applicant information. There are several methods for entering the information into the software. For example, if the hiring manager or a recruiter is interviewing, you can enter the information and take notes as the interview unfolds. Applicants applying online would have the option of entering the information directly into the system. The third way that data about potential applicants can be entered is through resume boards.
Once an applicant tracking system has the information, the system can sort this information in a number of ways. For example, if this position requires a college degree, you can resolve any resume that has come in that doesn’t include that information. Most applicant tracking systems also offer employee referral rewards.
There are a number of other features that these systems can provide to help with the hiring process. When deciding if applicant tracking systems will work for your business, consider the following pros and cons.
advantages
- These systems can automatically post to online job boards.
- Track all applicant information
- Allows for specific screening questions
- Keep track of the flow in the application process
- Will allow one email to go to multiple applicants
- It has the ability to automate evaluations for hiring.
- Tasks, notes and any other reports can be attached to the application.
- As a recruiter for multiple companies, it’s important to have vetted and qualified candidates who you can track for skill, experience, and education. Using an applicant tracking system can take a lot of work out of filing cabinets and into your fingertips. These systems are most useful when you have a large number of applicants for a multitude of jobs.
Cons:
- Applicant tracking systems eliminate about 75% of resume submissions
- Tracking systems can fail if the resume is not in the expected format.
- PDF files are often misinterpreted and discarded
- Tracking software can’t read charts
- The best candidate for a job may not have a resume that the software can pick up correctly
If your job is recruiting for your company or multiple companies, applicant tracking systems are definitely something to consider. The question is whether the software will make it easier to find the best candidates for the vacancy you are trying to fill. The next question is whether recruiting software will allow the best candidate for the job to go through the screening processes that resumes go through.