How to Implement an Applicant Tracking System
With more technologies being unveiled, businesses are discovering how advantageous modern software is to their operations. For instance, applicant tracking systems present numerous benefits. From simplifying the hiring process to enhancing employer branding, an ATS has proven one of the most powerful tools at a company’s disposal. To reap the ultimate benefits of an applicant tracking system, the integration of this technology should be flawless. By heeding the following advice, you’ll ensure a seamless coalescence.
Your Guide to Implementing an Effective System
1. Acquaint Yourself With HR Requirements/Business Goals
Before implementing an applicant tracking system, it’s imperative to know the wants and needs of your HR team. Otherwise, your ATS won’t yield optimal results. With an in-depth assessment of your company’s hiring efforts, you’ll know which features and details to look for. In essence, knowledge is power.
Using this information, you can determine what’s needed to gather the appropriate talent. What’s more, you’ll have a better understanding of where your HR team is lacking. This insight will allow you to choose an applicant tracking system that’s suitable for your company. Simply put, by taking an informed approach, you’ll set your HR team up for success.
Above all else, you’ll want to be sure that your team is comfortable with this technology. With that said, give your staff the chance to express their concerns and doubts. Not only does this bode well for productivity, but it also makes staff members feel valued. With open, honest communication, you’ll have a better idea of which avenue to pursue.
2. Get Support From Your Software Provider
Your software provider will play a prominent role in successfully implementing your ATS. To guarantee that you don’t run into obstacles, work closely with your software provider. After all, they’re there to address any questions and worries you may have. With their guidance, you can rest assured that all your expectations will be met.
However, the only surefire way to ensure this is through mutual collaboration. Along the way, be sure to develop an implementation strategy that works for you and your team. Ideally, you’ll want minimal disruptions. Moreover, you’ll want to keep your team up to speed as the process unfolds.
Most importantly, you’ll want to be in the know. By delving into the system’s features and makeup, you’ll do just that. Looking into potential risks is equally crucial. By gleaning substantial knowledge from your software provider, you’ll be better equipped to navigate your ATS on your own.
3. Establish A Clear Vision For Your End Goals
Deciding what you want to get out of your ATS is of paramount importance. If you already have a system in place, ask yourself what’s not working. This will serve as your starting point when selecting an applicant tracking system. From there, you can determine how your updated system will improve weak spots.
You’ll also want to consider how you’re going to transfer data. This information is sensitive, meaning you’ll need to handle all data transfers with great diligence. Once you’ve worked out these strategies, get together with your team. They’ll need to be privy to this information as well, so don’t overlook their role in this process. With everyone on the same page, it’ll prove easier to meet your goals.
4. Train Your Team
Both you and your team likely aren’t familiar with the technology you’ve recently adopted. With that in mind, everyone should undergo training. If you have several staff members to train, consider breaking your team into groups. In addition to allowing for more personal training, this will give workers hands-on experience. Overall, your goal should be to eliminate any confusion.
As a result, your team will be able to use the ATS to their full advantage. Most notably, you’ll need to set restrictions. For example, if you only want recruiters to have access to applicant information, provide them with an exclusive link to this data. This will save you time and trouble down the line. With some thorough training and practical planning, you’ll optimize your applicant tracking system.
