An ATS system: what is it and how does it work?

ATS stands for Aplicant Tracking System. Recruitment organizations use this type of software to manage and track the entire recruitment process, both online and offline.

Such a program has become an essential part of the recruitment process. But what exactly does an ATS system entail and how does it actually work in practice? In this blog we will answer all these questions and more. 

Content

1. What is an ATS (and what can you do with it)?
2. How does an ATS work in practice?
3. These are the benefits of an ATS. 
4. This is how you connect an ATS with your website. 

1. What is an ATS?

The Applicant Tracking System, abbreviated ATS, is an (online) software program that is used by recruitment organizations to track the entire recruitment process, from start to finish. This helps make the process more efficient, both for the recruiter and for the candidate.

Why should you use an ATS for a more efficient recruitment process? Well, with this system you can:

• Create and publish new vacancies
• Search and select potential candidates
• Invite candidates for an interview
• Rejecting less suitable candidates
• Maintain an overview through communication from one central location
• Generate reports and overviews

By performing and partly automating these tasks with the help of an ATS, you save a lot of time, you don't miss a single candidate and you can make your recruitment process even more efficient.

2. How does an ATS work in practice? 

When an application comes into an ATS, it is automatically scanned for keywords and criteria relevant to the position in question. If the application meets these criteria, it will be advanced to the next stage of the application process, such as an interview with a recruiter.

3. These are the benefits of an ATS

An ATS provides an overview

The system clearly lists all candidates and vacancies. You have your entire recruitment administration in order. No more searching for resumes in the email. In addition, most ATS systems are GDPR-proof.

Link with your (work at) site

You can create a link with your (working at) site so that you can send vacancies from your ATS to your website and vice versa: candidates who appear in your ATS immediately after their application. In short: everything is organized in one place.

Time saving

A major advantage of an ATS is that, after implementation, the system takes a lot of time off the hands of the recruiter. Keeping data up to date, organizing and processing it takes much less time. Both e-mail traffic and data management are automated. This allows you to spend more time on other things that are important in the process, such as maintaining good contact with the candidates.

An optimal candidate experience

The improved streamlining gives the candidate in turn a better experience with the organization. This means fewer mistakes are made or late responses are given. A candidate will therefore know better and faster where he or she stands and that will be appreciated.

Improving internal cooperation

Because everything is in one system, there is much more internal overview and clarity in the application process. Also through the use of workflows. You can see the status of each vacancy, who is working on what and what appointments are planned. This makes collaboration with colleagues much more efficient.

Collecting data

Another big advantage is that you can keep track of data with the help of your ATS. For example, the number of applicants, the results achieved and the most important social media channels. This way you can measure the quality and the recruitment process and further optimize it. In addition, it is possible to collect data and create different lists in the database. This allows a recruiter to build and maintain talent pools.

Promotional opportunities

There are also ATS systems that allow you to automatically post vacancies on various job boards and easily share a vacancy via social media. That also saves a lot of time.

4. This is how you connect an ATS with your website

The way vacancies are integrated varies per system. Some systems can link vacancies via an iframe, while others have developed specific API links or even WordPress plugins.

Each integration method has its own advantages and disadvantages. If you want full control, it is recommended to establish the connection via an API. This is a piece of software that has been set up by the Applicant Tracking System (ATS), which allows the web builder to post the vacancies in a desired format on their own website. This integration requires programming, but offers maximum flexibility.

Here are the three different ways to post vacancies on your own website:

1. iframes: Integration via HTML code in an iframe on your site. Simple, but limited options and possible issues with mobile use.
2. Plugins: Use of ATS-specific WordPress plugins. Easy installation and configuration with shortcodes, but styling may be required.
3. API link: Most technical and dynamic option. Direct communication between working at site and ATS offers maximum flexibility. More labor intensive and expensive, often custom work. Requires consultation about desired functionalities and costs.

Which option is best depends on your needs. Consult with all parties involved to discuss the desired functionalities and associated costs before making a choice.

Do you want advice or help with your recruitment marketing? Social Brothers will help you! Contact us via the module at the bottom of this page or visit our Contact page.