The Applicant Tracking System (ATS) 

Sometimes, your resume isn’t only read by humans, but by robots too! Many employers use technology to make the hiring process more efficient – with some positions receiving over hundreds of applications, it makes sense why recruiters would use AI systems to help them sort through resumes. 

An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) screens applications using set parameters of key words and job qualifications to select the best candidates for a job. When a resume doesn’t meet the requirements of a posting, the ATS rejects the application in favour of other candidates who use more relevant keywords and clearly demonstrate their qualifications in their application.

Keywords? What are those? Keywords are certain words in a job posting’s description that refers to specific skills, experiences, and/or qualifications valued by the employer. The ATS scans applications for keywords that are found in the job posting and identifies candidates to be considered for interviews. Take a closer read at a job description and make sure to mention its keywords in your cover letter and resume. However, don't just copy and paste the key words from the job description into your application as that is plagiarism and the ATS will pick that up too! 

Check out this article about creating ATS-friendly resumes.