Find the best Applicant Tracking System for your Business
33357
post-template-default,single,single-post,postid-33357,single-format-standard,ajax_fade,page_not_loaded,,qode-title-hidden,hide_top_bar_on_mobile_header,qode-child-theme-ver-1.0.1,qode-theme-ver-10.1.2,wpb-js-composer js-comp-ver-7.2,vc_responsive
applicant tracking system, application tracking system, applicant tracking system Australia, candidate applicant tracking system

Find the best Applicant Tracking System for your Business

Are you looking to manage your recruitment and hiring processes effectively? An applicant tracking system is an application software used by organisations to streamline their recruitment process. The core purpose of an ATS is to make the recruitment process more efficient and effective. It helps recruiters and hiring managers manage their workflows, filter out unqualified candidates, and identify the most promising ones for intended positions.

Research shows that 98.8% of Fortune 500 companies use an applicant tracking system. ATS automates the process of sorting, screening, and tracking job applicants. By digitalising tasks, recruiters can spend less time on administrative tasks and more time on making important hiring decisions. So, it helps businesses to find the right talent as per their needs and preferences.

This article dives deep into every vital detail of the applicant tracking system to help you streamline your hiring processes. 

What is an Applicant Tracking System?

An applicant tracking system is an automated tool that improves the hiring process for organisations. Research shows that 94% of recruiters say that ATS has improved their hiring process. It acts as a central database for storing and organising candidate information more efficiently. These systems allow hiring managers to communicate with candidates, schedule interviews, and track their progress throughout the recruitment process.

Features of Applicant tracking system

An applicant tracking system typically includes features such as;

  • Resume Parsing: The system extracts key information from resumes and populates candidate profiles automatically.
  • Job Posting: This feature allows recruiters to upload job openings on multiple job boards and other social media platforms.
  • Candidate Screening: It filters out unqualified candidates based on specific criteria, such as skills, experience, and education.
  • Interview Scheduling: This tool helps recruiters schedule interviews and send automatic reminders to candidates.
  • Communication: It enables recruiters to communicate with candidates via email, text, or chat.
  • Reporting: The system generates reports on key hiring metrics, such as time-to-hire, cost-per-hire, and applicant sources.

 

Why use an applicant tracking system?

There are several reasons why employers and recruiters use an applicant tracking system.

Centralisation of candidate information

The application tracking system acts as a central repository for all candidate information. It makes it easy for recruiting teams to access, search and filter resumes based on specific criteria such as education, work experience, and skills.

Improved candidate experience

An ATS can help employers interact more effectively with candidates throughout the recruitment process. It improves the hiring approach by ensuring that everyone is on the same page. It is achieved through effective collaboration with candidates through this application.

Reduce time to hire

The tracking system can help employers reduce their time-to-hire by automating many of the time-consuming tasks involved in recruitment, such as resume screening and interview scheduling.

Analytics and reporting

Applicant software can provide valuable data and insights into the recruitment process. For instance, it includes metrics such as time-to-hire, cost-per-hire, and applicant source. It helps employers optimise their recruitment strategies.

Improve candidate quality

Through automation, ATS allows employers to screen resumes and identify the most qualified candidates for a given position. It results in selecting a higher quality candidate overall.

What are ATS and CRM in recruitment?

ATS and CRM are the two types of software applications that are used in the recruitment process. But both have different features and functions. Let’s get into the details of both systems.

ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is primarily used for managing the hiring process, from the job posting and candidate screening to interview scheduling and hiring decision-making. In contrast, CRM (Candidate Relationship Management) is focused on building and maintaining relationships with potential candidates. It is primarily used for candidate sourcing, lead nurturing, and engagement activities. For example, email campaigns, social media outreach, and candidate communication.

CRM software typically provides features such as;

  • Candidate database management.
  • Lead nurturing workflows.
  • Analytics and insights.
  • Automation tools.
  • Integration with Other Systems.
  • Communication Tools.

 

Applicant Tracking System

5 Benefits of applicant tracking systems for candidates

The easy and fast application process

Application tracking system makes it easier for candidates to apply for job opportunities. It allows them to upload their resume and other application materials online. Candidates can complete the application process quickly and efficiently without having to submit physical copies of their resumes and application materials.

Increased visibility

This application helps candidates get noticed by employers by making it easier for their resumes to be evaluated easily. This can increase a candidate’s visibility and improve their chances of being considered for a position opportunity.

Consistency and fairness

An ATS ensures a fair and consistent screening process for all candidates by removing human bias from the initial resume review process. This can improve a candidate’s chances of being considered fairly based on their qualifications rather than subjective criteria.

Automated updates

This tracking system provides automated updates to candidates throughout the recruitment process. It allows them to know when their application has been received, selected for an interview, and when a hiring decision has been made. This can reduce candidate anxiety and keep them engaged.

Improved candidate experience

ATS can provide candidates with a more positive and personalised experience by providing automated updates, interview scheduling, and other communication tools. It helps keep them informed throughout the recruitment process. This can help improve the overall candidate experience and increase the likelihood of a successful hire.

6 Benefits for the talent acquisition and HR team

Improved data management and reporting

This automated application provides powerful data management and reporting tools. It allows recruiters to manage job descriptions, track candidate progress, monitor recruitment metrics, and generate reports. Through this software, the HR teams improvise recruitment strategies and decisions. So, it helps improves the effectiveness and efficiency of the recruitment process over time.

Enhanced collaboration

The applicant tracking application provides HR teams with a centralised platform to collaborate on recruitment activities. It allows them to communicate easily with each other, share candidate profiles and resumes, and track the status of job openings.

Improved data and analytics

ATS can provide talent acquisition teams with valuable data and analytics to help them better understand their recruiting process. For example, recruiters can track HR metrics such as time-to-hire, source of hire, and candidate conversion rates. This data can help recruiters identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions about their hiring process.

Improved efficiency

An ATS streamlines the recruitment process, reducing the time and effort required to manage job postings, screen resumes, and schedule interviews. This can help HR teams save time and increase productivity, enabling them to focus on other critical tasks.

Candidate sourcing on multiple job boards

The software can help recruiters find the right candidates more easily by providing access to a wider range of job boards, social media platforms, and other recruiting channels. This can help recruiters cast a wider net and reach more potential candidates.

Compliance with hiring regulations

Tracking applications can help HR teams ensure compliance with hiring regulations by providing a standardised and consistent recruitment process that is transparent and auditable. This can help reduce the risk of non-compliance and legal challenges.

7 Factors to consider when choosing an ATS

It is important for organisations to carefully consider several factors when choosing an applicant tracking system to ensure they select the right solution that meets their specific needs. Some of the factors to consider when choosing an ATS:

Cost

The cost is an important factor to consider when selecting an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). The cost of an ATS can vary widely depending on the features and functionality offered by the system. The cost of an ATS can also vary based on the vendor, the number of users, and the level of customer support provided.

So, organisations should evaluate the pricing structure of different ATS solutions and choose one that fits their budget and meets their specific needs.

Integration

ATS should integrate with HR systems and software, such as payroll and performance management systems. It should support HRIS (Human resource information system) to ensure that all candidate data and employee information is stored in a centralised database.

This can help recruiters and hiring managers access and manage employee data, automate onboarding, and simplify the hiring process. It can improve efficiency and reduce manual data entry. Organisations should evaluate the integration capabilities of different ATS solutions and choose one that integrates well with their existing systems.

Customisation

The applicant training software should allow for customisation and flexibility to meet the unique needs of the company. This includes configuring workflows, creating custom fields, and integrating with other HR systems. Organisations should consider the level of customisation and flexibility required for their specific recruitment needs.

User experience

ATS should be easy to use and navigate for recruiters, hiring managers, and candidates. Recruiters should be able to manage job postings, screen resumes, and schedule interviews easily. The ATS should also provide a user-friendly interface for candidates to apply for jobs and track their application status.

The application tracking system should provide timely and effective customer support, including phone and email support, user training, and a knowledge base. Organisations should evaluate the quality of customer support offered by different ATS vendors and choose one that provides adequate support.

Resume parsing and screening features

The ATS should be able to parse resumes and screen candidates based on specific criteria. This can include factors such as keywords, experience level, and education. Organisations should evaluate the resume parsing and screening capabilities of different ATS solutions to ensure that they can efficiently identify qualified candidates.

Candidate communication tools

The software should provide tools for communicating with candidates and maintaining engagement throughout the recruitment process. It can include automated email notifications, scheduling tools, and feedback mechanisms. Organisations should evaluate the candidate communication and engagement features of different ATS solutions to ensure that they provide a positive candidate experience.

Mobile capabilities

The applicant training system should be optimised for mobile devices, as many candidates prefer to apply for jobs on their smartphones. It includes a mobile-friendly career site and a mobile app for recruiters to manage the recruitment process on the go. Organisations should evaluate the mobile capabilities of different ATS solutions to ensure that they provide a positive candidate experience and an efficient hiring process for recruiters.

How to evaluate ATS options?

Demoing an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is an important step in the selection process of the platform. It assists you in making an informed decision about which system to choose. You can select an ATS that meets your organisation’s needs and goals by evaluating the features, ease of use, customisation, integration, and customer support.

Importance of ATS evaluation

An ATS evaluation is important because it can help you select a system that meets your organisation’s preferences fits within your budget and improves the effectiveness and efficiency of your recruitment process.

  • An ATS evaluation can help you identify a system that streamlines your recruitment workflow.
  • Demoing ATS helps you select a platform that provides a positive candidate experience. It can improve your employer’s brand and increase the likelihood of attracting top talent.
  • Evaluating various ATS options can offer you to assess the cost of each system, including upfront costs, ongoing costs, and potential customisation costs. This can help you identify a cost-effective solution that fits within your organisation’s budget.
  • By evaluating different ATS options, you can identify a system that provides the necessary compliance features to ensure that your recruitment process is fair and legal.

 

List of questions to ask during a Demo

  1. How does the system integrate with other HR tools and systems, such as HRIS or payroll software?
  2. Can the system be customised to fit our specific recruitment process and requirements?
  3. Can the system provide analytics on recruitment metrics, such as time-to-hire and cost-per-hire?
  4. What kind of security measures are in place to protect applicant data and prevent unauthorised access?
  5. How do the system track and report on applicant status, and can we customise the reporting dashboard?
  6. Can you demonstrate how to post a job opening and manage applications within the system?
  7. What level of customer support and training is available for the ATS?
  8. How does the system handle scheduling and coordinating interviews with candidates?
  9. Can you provide examples of other organisations that have successfully implemented this ATS?
  10. What is the cost structure for your ATS, including any implementation costs?

 

Top Applicant tracking system to consider

You might be looking for an applicant tracking system that meets your business needs. Don’t worry. Employee connect is an all-in-one HR management software that allows you to streamline your hiring process. This platform helps employers to accelerate talent acquisition and make the process efficient by simplifying applicant tracking. Let’s discuss the key features of our ATS that improve your recruitment process.

Employee Connect ATS features

Make recruitment easy

We offer a centralised platform for managing the hiring process. It simplifies and controls recruitment by managing vacancies, tracking, candidate assessment, communication, and more. Using HRIS automation, you can increase your time efficiency and information accuracy. You can automate your applicant data with a seamless availability of customisation and integration options.

Streamline your hiring workflows

Our applicant tracking system allows you to optimise workflow-driven requests, including job descriptions, competency frameworks, positions, and more. You can gather feedback, interviews, and assessments on the pre-screen. So, through ATS, you can accomplish end-to-end recruitment.

Capture Talent through Effective Collaboration

You can manage your candidate pool by using effective ATS collaboration tools. You can manage their job applications, resumes, and job offers in a single platform. Our applicant tracking software allows the teams to smoothen the new hiring process for applicants.

Help in making data-driven decisions

The software provides you with actionable insights that help recruiters to make informed decisions. We offer real-time metrics and personalised custom options that streamline your recruitment stages.

The Future of Applicant Tracking Systems

The future of applicant tracking systems is likely to be shaped by advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning. ATS technology is already incorporating these tools to help recruiters and hiring managers identify the best candidates for a given job opening. Here are some potential trends and developments to watch for in the coming years:

  • Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will become more prevalent in ATS, enabling more efficient and effective candidate screening and matching.
  • ATS will continue to evolve to be more user-friendly and mobile-friendly, allowing for greater accessibility for both recruiters and job seekers.
  • Integration with other HR technologies, such as HR analytics and workforce planning tools, will become more common to provide a more comprehensive view of talent management.
  • The use of chatbots and other automation tools will increase to streamline communication and provide a more efficient candidate experience.
  • The use of social media platforms and other online channels to source candidates will continue to grow, leading to increased integration with ATS systems.

 

Conclusion

In short, the applicant tracking system can help companies streamline their hiring process. It automates many of the tasks associated with recruiting, including posting job openings, screening resumes, and scheduling interviews. So, if you are looking to hire the desired talent, connect with EmployeeConnect. Our ATS platform allows you to streamline your recruitment process without any hassle. 

Start your journey with us for free!

request a demo

Byron Conway
byron@employeeconnect.com

Content Coordinator at EmployeeConnect