In the realm of talent acquisition, the process of recruiting new team members can be a formidable undertaking that consumes considerable time and resources. If you've been in charge of recruiting in the past, you're probably familiar with the challenges that come with it... The arduous tasks of posting job openings on various platforms, sifting through countless CVs, and managing candidate applications often prove monotonous and time-consuming, particularly when the process isn't automated. Thankfully, a transformative technological solution has emerged to alleviate these challenges: Applicant Tracking System (ATS) software, a tool proven to make recruiting easier.

The remarkable influence of ATS software is underscored by a study conducted by Capterra, an American company, which revealed that a staggering 75% of recruiters and talent acquisition managers use an ATS. Moreover, an impressive 94% of these professionals firmly believe that this software has had a positive impact on their recruitment processes.

This article explains in detail what is ATS software and how its utilization can significantly enhance the ease and effectiveness of your recruitment process.

What is ATS software?

The acronym ATS stands for Applicant Tracking System. It is software built to manage and streamline the application process also referred to as the "recruiting software."

This sophisticated computer program serves a dual purpose: empowering recruiters to organize successful recruitment campaigns while monitoring the progress of each stage in the process.

ATS software simplifies the task of selecting the most qualified individuals, by optimizing candidate searches.

It, simply, handles everything from publishing job posts to onboarding your new recruit; even automates certain time-consuming tasks. It's the go-to tool for successful recruitment!

There are two types of ATS software:

1. Locally installed ATS: This variant is accessible through any connection to an organization's internal server.
   
2. SaaS (Service as a Software) ATS: This cloud-based solution provides convenient accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection.

Most ATS software solutions operate under the SaaS model given the ease of access and versatility that come with it. Many of these solutions also offer mobile applications for smartphones and tablets, along with simplified update processes, further enhancing user experience.

Key Features of ATS Software

While each ATS solution may possess unique features, most share a core set of functionalities.

These include:

• Job openings are posted on both a company's career page and external job sites.
• Seamless integration with social media platforms for effortless job sharing.
• Robust storage capabilities for received applications, ensuring organization and easy retrieval.
• Advanced candidate sourcing and selection using automated keyword algorithms.
• Construction of talent pools to cultivate a rich repository of potential candidates.
• Automated communication via email templates and interview reminders, streamlining candidate engagement.
• Effective tracking of reference requests and administrative document submissions.
• Streamlined onboarding processes, ensuring a smooth transition for new hires.

Moreover, many ATS solutions offer integrations with other digital services, such as messaging platforms, job boards, and electronic signature tools, amplifying efficiency and productivity throughout the day.

The Recruiter’s Tool for Productivity and Efficiency

An ATS represents far more than a mere CV management system. It serves as a steadfast companion, offering support at every stage of the recruitment process, and enhancing the overall performance.

Notable advantages of incorporating an ATS tool for recruitment include:

1) Optimized Recruitment

ATS will help you save time, by centralizing where and how you track your recruitment!

With just a few clicks, you can share job postings effortlessly across multiple platforms, eliminating the need for manual duplication.

Furthermore, ATS software simplifies candidate sourcing by presenting recruiters with top-tier profiles that align closely with their specific selection criteria. It can be configured to align with an organization's unique internal recruiting processes, placing technology at the service of the recruiter rather than vice versa.

To ensure that you never miss another perfect match, the sourcing platform Wiggli uses a targeted algorithm to pre-qualify the most competent candidates for your job openings.

2) A Strengthened Employer Brand

One of the most frustrating experiences for candidates is not receiving a response after submitting an application. While it is a common oversight, it can significantly impact a company's image.

72% of individuals who have had a poor candidate experience share it either online or through word-of-mouth, according to an infographic created by LaSuperAgence.

With ATS software's guaranteed and detailed status tracking, recruiters can ensure that every candidate is promptly informed of their application status.

This level of communication not only provides a positive candidate experience but also enhances the company's employer brand. Candidates who feel valued and informed are more likely to hold a positive perception of the organization. They will be more inclined to share their positive experiences with others.

It's a virtuous cycle of reputation enhancement.

3) Enhanced Decision-Making Processes

Recruiting often involves multiple stakeholders within a company. At times, it can be difficult to gather everyone's opinions and come to a decision. 

This is where ATS comes into play as a collaborative tool that facilitates communication among all parties in the recruitment process.

With ATS software, tracking and managing applications on an individual basis becomes effortless. Recruiters are better equipped to make decisions and the risk of information loss decreases.

4) Simplified Personal Data Management

In the era of data privacy regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), recruiting companies face increased scrutiny regarding how candidate data is managed.

ATS software provides robust data security measures, ensuring secure user access to sensitive information while centralizing its storage and management in a single location.

This streamlined approach not only enhances practicality but also ensures compliance with data protection regulations.

ATS Solutions: Tailored Software for Every Organization

Once considered exclusive to large corporations and recruiting agencies, ATS solutions now cater to businesses of all sizes.

Most recruiting software plans charge a tailored fee depending on the number of users and the features you choose. This means you only pay for what you use! Regardless of your company's scale, a suitable ATS solution exists to address your recruitment challenges.

In summary, ATS software represents an essential tool for anyone involved in the recruitment process. By cutting down on time spent doing non-value-added administrative tasks, recruiters can focus on their core responsibilities.

Incorporating ATS programs along with successful recruiting campaigns can provide your company with a substantial competitive advantage.

Together, ATS programs and recruiting are a tried-and-true, winning pair in business!