Did you know that nearly every large company uses an ATS to review your resume?

That’s right! Companies everywhere have turned to applicant tracking systems (ATS) for sorting through thousands of resumes and cover letters. As a result, many employees have developed misconceptions about the software and its consequences on their job applications. Let’s dive into the world of ATS and see if resume writing services are still relevant for candidates.

Understanding Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a type of software that filters and organizes resumes. It sorts through thousands of resumes by job candidates and picks up on relevant keywords used in different sections of a resume. Recruiters and hiring managers use ATS to simplify and streamline the hiring process.

Debunking Common Myths about Applicant Tracking Systems

Even though ATS has been around for a while now, there are still many misconceptions about them. Let’s explore some common ATS myths and debunk them.

Myth #1: ATS Automatically Rejects Resumes

One of the most prevalent myths about applicant tracking systems is that they automatically reject resumes based on certain keywords or formatting issues. This myth is understandable and common because the software is designed to track relevant keywords and qualifications. Since it’s an automated system, many people think it has the command to automatically reject resumes before they get viewed by human recruiters.

What’s the Truth?

The truth is that an ATS does not have the authority to reject resumes. It’s not an autonomous system that can make such decisions. Instead, it functions solely based on the commands it has been given. Companies use an ATS as a digital folder to organize resumes. As such, human recruiters and hiring managers are the ones to reject resumes after thoroughly reviewing them.

Recruiters set certain requirements and criteria in an ATS to filter out the most relevant candidates. Resumes that match the specified requirements are more likely to be selected for further review, but it doesn't mean other resumes are automatically rejected.

Myth #2: All ATS Software Is The Same

Since the term “Applicant Tracking System” is standardized, many people assume that all ATS software is the same. This misconception leads candidates to believe that companies in different industries use the same qualification criteria and automated guidelines to filter candidate applications.

What’s the Truth?

In reality, not all ATS software is the same. All companies have unique criteria for filtering resumes because of the different industries they operate in. Consequently, an ATS used by a particular company needs to align with its industry-specific job requirements. Different job descriptions also focus on specific keywords, which an ATS picks up and tracks. So, the specific commands fed into an ATS software vary from company to company.

Myth #3: ATS Does All The Hiring Work

Another common myth about an ATS is that it completes the entire recruitment process on its own. Applicants believe that only an ATS is responsible for screening resumes, shortlisting candidates, and finalizing accepted applications.

What’s the Truth?

In reality, an ATS is just one part of a more extensive recruitment process. While an ATS does an excellent job of initially screening and organizing high-ranking resumes, it does not replace the human element of hiring new employees.

Recruitment officers and hiring managers still call the final shots. For them, an ATS is a useful tool that helps identify qualified candidates. The tasks of reviewing selected resumes, conducting interviews, and approaching candidates with job offers are still completed by human recruiters.

Myth #4: Resume Quality Doesn’t Matter Because of ATS

Many candidates assume they don’t need to submit high-quality resumes because an ATS won’t care. This assumption stems from the idea of applicant tracking systems functioning similarly to search engines. As a result, many uninformed candidates try to keyword-stuff their resumes in hopes of the software optimizing its ranking.

What’s the Truth?

ATS doesn’t function the same way as search engines and might actually flag your resume for keyword-stuffing. This means that resume quality matters even if a company uses ATS. As discussed earlier, human recruiters are still involved in the hiring process most of the time. So, submitting a well-written resume for human employers yields more effective and favorable results than drafting one just for an ATS. Consider enlisting the professional help of resume writing experts to help you create a resume that stands out organically.

Improve Your Resume Today!

Do you need help improving your resume? Resu Consulting can help!

Resu Consulting is a leading career consultancy company that helps enthusiastic employees like you land their desired jobs. Their team of resume review consultants and career guidance counselors provide industry-specific assistance to high school students and professional adults. You can reach out to them for resume and cover letter writing and reviewing services.