Why Do Companies Use ATS Anyway?

Increasingly, companies are using electronic resume reading software known as Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). They are using ATS because:

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• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) rules require companies to show non-discriminatory practices. ATS software allows tracking and is a non-discriminatory way to initially select candidates to interview for jobs.
• Companies get hundreds (if not thousands) of inquiries for each job. Computer software allows the company to electronically screen and trim resumes from the incoming flood, saving hiring managers many hours of time while still finding qualified candidates.
• The ATS software streamlines how hiring is handled, with clearer communication among all the folks in the hiring chain.

What does this mean to you? You need a professional resume that is not only compatible with standard ATS software but will generate an interview when read by a hiring manager. You need a resume with strong keywords, a format acceptable to the majority of Applicant Tracking Systems, and an emphasis on accomplishments for the hiring manager’s benefit. Photo Credit: Shutterstock