Applicant Tracking System: a computer software many companies use to manage their hiring process.
- Store candidates’ information (resume, cover letters, refrences and other data)
- Manage applications
- Automates hiring managers tasks such as manually screening applicants, reading resumes, and scheduling interviews and sending out notifications.
Part of the application when an employer uses ATS may include knockout questions like:
- Are you willing to relocate?
- Do you have a bachelor’s degree in [specific field]?
- Do you have training/experience required for this position?
ATS use these questions as a way to reject your application because you do not meet the requirements set by the employers.
Employers may use ATS to scan and parse your resume. Some systems score resumes based on how closely they match the job description. To avoid this you should use the job description to find keywords and phrase such as repeated words, required skills and qualifications and job titles that match the position you’re applying for.
Resources:
- Connect with your college career coach
- Big Interview AI resume tool go.unl.edu/biginterview
Source: “How to Make Sure Your “Resume is ATS-Friendly.” Big Interview Resources, resources.biginterview.com/resumes/applicant-tracking-system/ Accessed 27 May 2025.