Sunday, May 16, 2010

What happens to your résumé?




The answer is that it most likely goes to Applicant Tracking System software (ATS). The majority of job boards have partnerships with ATS software providers.

So what is ATS? Basically it is a database designed to match candidates with jobs. ATS scans for standardized keywords on a résumé. Understanding the technical ride that your résumé takes may be the key to getting an interview.

A Job requisition is created in an ATS based on input from a recruiter or hiring manger. This can be the weakest link in the chain, due to human error. (ATS will seek candidates based upon the requisition description.)

The job requisition is posted on a job board and this is your opportunity to compare your résumé with the job description. Make sure that your résumé hits the keywords in the job description. Note: Regarding your “electronic” résumé, use a simple font and get rid of special characters such as bullets.

Keywords on your résumé can be broken down into four major categories:


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