ATS hack! So, you’re still wondering why you keep getting rejection emails, and you’re stumped as to why (and even more confused on how to go about course-correcting).
As I continuously advocate, HRM systems are not designed for the applicant. As you apply for jobs, you need to first understand if your application is up against an HRM. If it is, you need to keep this in mind as you go about applying, because every single click and upload will matter.
So, let’s unpack data parsing for a minute and understand how that makes a huge difference. Remember, if your application is going through an HRM, you have to think like the computer. This is automated.
Quick upskilling on data parsing. This is a simple, and automated data extraction methodology that is used to dissect your resume and other documents.
So, let’s explore a use case of someone who decides to use Microsoft Word’s resume template. As you can see, the file size is already at 116 KB before you even build anything into it. How’s that helpful? Your resume may “look pretty” from the template, but for an HRM, this is largely already overly complex, and the data parsing is going to get confused.
Simple ATS hack advice here. The harder it is for the computer to data parse, the higher the chance you won’t get through. This is how it works:
(A) The computer can easily parse the data: application likely moves forward (among other factors)
(b) The computer cannot easily parse the data, and because it’s having a difficult time, it automatically rejects the application
…you weren’t even given a shot. Partially due to the data parse complexity issue. If you know how to do ATS hack you’ll get through.
It’s a simple fix, and with the right tools and resources, you can best position your resume, and other supporting documents, to be “data parse friendly”. Overarching advice here: stop making the computer angry, and you have a higher chance of getting through.
Lean files = higher success rates
Complexity = Rejection
ATS hack as simple as that.
Beat the Robots: How to Get Your Resume Past the System and Into Human Hands