Are you being auto rejected by keywords in your resume?
Navigating the job market can be a daunting process, especially when faced with widespread myths about application systems. As a seasoned recruiter, I've seen a lot of bollocks out there, with one of the most common being how Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) can auto reject candidates based on keywords in their resume. Let's dive into this topic to shed some light on the realities of ATS.
The Myth About Keywords and ATS
There’s a persistent rumor in the job-seeking world: the belief that ATS will automatically reject your resume based on certain keywords. This is a complete tosh and not how these systems work. While keywords play a role in highlighting relevant skills and experiences, they are not a factor in auto-rejection workflows. As a recruiter, you’d never want an ATS to do this, even if it could, as a lot of roles evolve as you go through the interview process and keywords can be super variable!
The Truth: Questions Matter
The reality is that automatic rejections are more likely to occur based on how you answer specific questions in your application. As a recruiter, setting up auto-reject workflows is a practical step for roles that attract a high volume of applicants or when there are clear, non-negotiable requirements for the position.
A Practical Example
Consider a scenario where the job is located in Toronto, and one of the application questions is, "Do you live within a commutable distance to Toronto?" If an applicant answers "No," you could set it up so they are automatically rejected. This approach streamlines the process by focusing on candidates who meet essential criteria, like location in this case.
Insights and Advice for Job Seekers
For job seekers, understanding this aspect of the application process is crucial. It's important to read job descriptions and application questions carefully and respond honestly. Misrepresenting facts to bypass initial screenings will likely lead to complications later in the process. Instead, focus on applications where you genuinely meet the key criteria and use your responses to showcase your suitability for the role. However saying this, take this example for instance, if you planned on relocating to Toronto (with no assistance from the company), I’d just reply “Yes”.
Closing Thoughts
The key takeaway for applicants is to recognize what aspects of the job application process are within your control. Worrying about ATS and automatic rejections based on keywords is unproductive. Instead, concentrate on presenting your qualifications accurately and aligning them with the job's requirements. Remember, not every job will be the right fit, and that's okay.
As someone who's been on both sides of the recruitment process, I encourage job seekers not to be disheartened by rejections. Each application is a step towards finding the right opportunity. If you have questions or need advice, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help!
Do you have experiences or thoughts about ATS and job applications? Share them in the comments below!
Cheers,
Joseph