"Job application systems" refer to the software or online platforms used by companies to manage the process of hiring new employees. It helps employers receive, review, and process job applications from potential candidates in an organized and efficient manner.
Full definition
That said, it's in your best interest to understand how to «crack the code» for
online job application systems as much as possible, to get ahead of the competition.
Understanding how and why you should research companies can help you determine which certifications, skills, work experience, and other attributes to highlight that will be picked up
by job application systems.
Job application systems use software that allows candidates to electronically scan resumes, and store them in a database that's easily accessible by hiring managers and recruiters.
Do some research to determine what qualifications the employer's looking for, and use language and social media links that will be picked up
by job application systems.
As the various
federal job application systems evolve, it's good to get advice from people who have studied and continue to keep in touch with all aspects of the various employment practices of more than 200 federal agencies.
Not to mention that, for
most job application systems, this will add a splash of color that is bound to attract the attention of the person who is looking through the bulk of applicants.
It's probably at this stage of the job application game to skip graphics or tables, and to forego attaching PDF files or other extraneous data that might trip up
programmed job application systems.
Armed with that knowledge, your next step can be forming a strategy to break
through job application systems and reach a real person in your search for flexible jobs.
Sarikas also urges job seekers to apply online when dealing with big
job application systems even if they've passed their resume to a trusted networking contact.
As convenient
as job application systems may be for employers, they can add hurdles to the application process for job seekers who've worked hard on customized resumes and cover letters, only to see them disappear into the ether.
It is particularly important when you send employers your resume and cover letter as attachments (either via email or through an
online job application system).
DOC format to PDF files, and while graphics and other design - focused elements may work for humans, they may not be recognized
by job application systems.
«We saw a big surge in
our jobs application system, and people mentioned in their cover letters that it was that post that got them to apply,» he said.
Some job application systems, such as the US government's USAJobs, have functionality built into the system which allows applicants to see how their applications are progressing through the organization's hiring processes.
Check out How to Beat Big
Job Application Systems.
It's a good idea to understand what an online
job application system is.
Once you have an understanding of descriptions and keywords that are repeated, you'll have a grasp of what
the job application system is scanning for.
Be specific: If the job opening is for a UX designer, use that specifically in your resume and cover letter to boost your visibility to
the job application system.
We spoke to a number of human resource professionals and other experts to get their insider tips for how to beat
job application systems.
Here are some ideas on how you can maximize your job search efforts overall when dealing with big
job application systems:
Is there any way to beat big
job application systems?
If you want to successfully work within the big
job application systems «Make sure that you don't simply attach your resume, but also paste the information in the summary boxes,» says Melissa Anzman, human resources professional and the president of Loosen Your White Collar.
Even if your submission to
a job application system is perfect, you're still probably one of hundreds of candidates — 300 to 600, according to Mauri Schwartz of Career Insiders.
Are you curious how to beat big
job application systems?
What are your experiences with big
job application systems?
Instead, they opt for a more efficient and organized way of doing things using e-mail and
job application systems.
Online
job application systems are quickly becoming the norm.