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If you're applying for jobs in the UK, understanding whether a company uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can significantly enhance your application strategy. ATS software is commonly employed by employers to manage and streamline the recruitment process, often scanning CVs for keywords and qualifications before a human ever sees them. Knowing if a company uses an ATS allows you to tailor your CV accordingly, increasing your chances of progressing to the interview stage.

How to tell if a company uses an ATS

Identifying whether a company uses an ATS involves a combination of research and observation. Here are some practical steps:

1

Examine the application process:

If the job application requires you to fill out extensive online forms, upload your CV in specific formats (like .docx or .pdf), or answer pre-screening questions, it's likely that an ATS is in use.
2

Check the job listing URL:

Some job postings have URLs that include the name of the ATS provider, such as "workday" or "greenhouse." This can be a clear indicator of the system being used.
3

Use online tools:

Platforms like Jobscan offer features where you can input the job listing URL, and the system will detect which ATS the company uses.
4

Inspect the page source:

By right-clicking on the job application page and selecting "View Page Source," you can search for keywords like "ATS," "Taleo," or "iCIMS" to identify the software in use.

How to check if a company uses ATS software

Beyond the initial indicators, there are additional methods to confirm the use of ATS:

 

  • Company career pages: Larger UK companies often have dedicated career portals powered by ATS providers. Look for branding or mentions of ATS vendors on these pages.

 

  • Job board listings: If a job is posted on multiple job boards and redirects to a centralised application system, it’s a sign that an ATS is managing the process.

 

  • Networking: Reach out to current or former employees via LinkedIn to inquire about the company’s hiring process. They may provide insights into whether an ATS is used.

 

How to identify an ATS system in a job application

Recognising the specific ATS can help you tailor your application more effectively:

1️⃣ Look for brandingSome application portals display the ATS provider’s logo or name, such as “Powered by Workday.”
2️⃣ Analyse the application URL. URLs containing segments like “/ats/” or the name of known ATS providers (“/workday/”) can indicate the system in use.
3️⃣ Use detection tools. Tools like Jobscan can analyse job postings and identify the ATS, providing you with specific optimisation tips.

Does my CV pass ATS?

Ensuring your CV is ATS-friendly is crucial:

1

Use standard formatting:

Avoid complex layouts, tables, or graphics. Stick to a clean, simple format with clear headings like "Work Experience" and "Education."
2

Incorporate keywords:

Tailor your CV to include keywords from the job description, as ATS software scans for these to determine relevance.
3

Choose the right file type:

Unless specified otherwise, submit your CV in .docx or .pdf format, as these are generally compatible with most ATS.
4

Test your CV:

Use online tools like Jobscan or Resume Worded to evaluate your CV's compatibility with ATS and receive suggestions for improvement.

How to beat the ATS system

Optimising your application to navigate ATS effectively involves:

 

  • Tailoring each application: Customise your CV and cover letter for each job, aligning your skills and experiences with the job requirements.

 

  • Using clear language: Avoid jargon or acronyms that may not be recognised by the ATS.

 

  • Avoiding keyword stuffing: While including relevant keywords is important, overloading your CV can be detrimental. Ensure that keywords are used naturally within the context of your experiences.

 

  • Highlighting achievements: Quantify your accomplishments where possible, as specific results can make your application stand out.

 

FAQs: Understanding and navigating ATS software in the UK

Final tips for UK job seekers

 

  • Stay informed: Keep abreast of common ATS platforms used in the UK, such as Workday, Greenhouse, and iCIMS, to better understand how to tailor your applications.
  • Seek feedback: Utilise services like Resume Worded to get insights into how your CV performs against ATS criteria.
  • Leverage networking: Personal connections can sometimes help bypass ATS filters. Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals in your desired industry.
  • Continuous improvement: Regularly update and refine your CV based on feedback and evolving job market trends.

By understanding and navigating ATS effectively, you can enhance your job application strategy and increase your chances of securing interviews in the competitive UK job market.

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References & further reading

  1. Workday – Workday’s talent strategy
  2. Indeed – What is an ATS and how does it work?
  3. ivee – How to find out what ATS a company is using

Want to make sure your CV passes ATS checks?

Try our free ATS-friendly CV template and boost your chances of landing an interview
ATS-friendly CV template