What is an applicant tracking system? The must-have HR tool.

The world of HR and recruitment has changed rapidly in the past two decades due in no small part to the use of HR technology, video meeting software and social media platforms such as LinkedIn. 

In fact, most companies today use some form of technology or management system to help with their hiring and recruitment efforts. 

It’s safe to say that if you work in HR or talent acquisition, there’s a fairly good chance that you’ve heard of an application tracking system (ATS). But what is an ATS and how can an application tracking system improve recruitment? In brief, an application tracking system is software that streamlines and manages recruitment by automating different tasks.

Why use an applicant tracking system?

The main reasons companies use an ATS are simple – to save time, save money, and to provide candidates with an outstanding candidate experience. From startups and SMEs to large enterprises and multinationals, applicant tracking systems are great for companies of all sizes. 

Since an ATS allows for greater customization, companies can tailor the application process, including any forms they want candidates to complete.

However, an ATS not only makes life easier for recruiters and hiring managers, it also makes things less time-consuming for candidates.  Everything is digital. Candidates simply upload their CVs, cover letters, and portfolios and can often connect their LinkedIn profiles. Voila! Application submitted. 

One of the other really attractive things about an ATS is the data it can provide. In brief, the data obtainable from an ATS provides users with powerful insights about the candidates but also on how to improve the recruitment process.

How do applicant Tracking Systems work?

An ATS has various functions. Leading applicant tracking systems can help talent acquisition with the process of automating manual tasks, scheduling interviews, and improving collaboration between teams. To put it another way, an ATS helps companies work smarter. In fact, 89% of Teamtailor users say their hiring process is faster.

The benefits of an ATS aren’t just for companies. Applicant tracking systems simplify the application process for candidates by enabling job seekers to upload their resumes without the need to complete forms. Today, more than ever before, candidate experience should be an obvious part of every company’s decision-making. If you’re on the fence about that, it’s worth considering that 86% of employees and job seekers research company reviews and ratings to decide on where to apply for a job.*

How can applicant tracking systems help the selection process?

Companies commonly use their ATS to post job openings on multiple platforms simultaneously, including job boards and the company website. 

A key function of an ATS is its ability to screen and filter applicants' resumes based on predefined criteria, including qualifications, skills, and experience. In other words, an ATS can help recruiters screen for top candidates. 

Automation saves time that would otherwise be spent manually filtering out job applicants without the right qualifications. This is a major plus when you consider that many open positions can attract hundreds or even thousands of job applicants, many of whom may not meet the criteria. 

97% of companies that use Teamtailor say they have seen an increase in qualified candidates.

What applicant tracking system is the best?

Functionality varies from ATS to ATS but the best application tracking system is, of course, not only one that saves time and money but one that is made with the candidate in mind.

Teamtailor's all-in-one recruitment software includes smart and innovative features for every stage of recruitment. Whether it's posting job ads, managing candidates, streamlining processes, increasing collaboration between teams, or communicating with candidates, Teamtailor offers it all. You also get all the data you need to improve your hiring process and gain insights about your candidates.

What’s more, Teamtailor has recently launched a generative AI assistant called Co-pilot. Co-pilot assists recruiters in their daily tasks, saving time and making better recruiting decisions. Its AI capabilities can help talent acquisition write job ads, analyze resumes to identify top candidates, write rejection or approval letters, and summarize candidate interviews.

Want to try Teamtailor for yourself?

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