How to Optimize Your Social Job Posts for Applicant Tracking Systems

Think of ATS systems as super-smart robots that scan resumes for specific keywords, qualifications, and experience that align perfectly with the job requirements.

Components of an ATS-friendly job posting

Transforming a job posting into an ATS-friendly format is similar to organizing a closet - everything in its place for effortless retrieval. Ensure job titles are clear, keywords are pertinent, and the role and requirements are summarized to provide the ATS with a straightforward path to navigate the job listing.

Tips for optimizing job titles and descriptions

When crafting job titles and descriptions, keep it simple. Use common industry terms and avoid jargon or fancy titles that could confuse the ATS. Remember, the goal is to make it easy for the ATS to understand what the job is about and match it to the right candidates.

Incorporating relevant keywords and phrases

It's important to understand the keywords and phrases that are relevant to the job position you're advertising. Conduct thorough research to identify the specific industry-related terms that candidates are likely to use when searching for jobs. Incorporate these keywords naturally into your job posts to increase the visibility of your job ads in ATS searches. By aligning your job posts with the language used by potential candidates, you'll enhance the chances of your posts being seen by the right individuals.  

A whopping 88% of employers think they're losing out on great candidates because their resumes aren't ATS-friendly (i.e., including criteria or keywords that the ATS is programmed to look for).

Be very specific and clear with listing  

It's also beneficial to include specific requirements and qualifications in your job posts. This helps the ATS filter out candidates who don't meet the necessary criteria, saving you time and effort in the screening process. Clearly state the desired skills, experience, and education level for the position, and consider using bullet points or a separate section to highlight these requirements. This will make it easier for the ATS to identify qualified candidates and present them to you for further consideration.

Did you know? Online job postings typically draw in 250+ candidates, but only a small fraction actually get the chance to interview. Only 25% of resumes make it past the ATS and in front of a human recruiter! This means that 75% of resumes don’t qualify because of formatting, content, or lack of keywords.

Use #’s wherever needed

You may consider incorporating relevant hashtags into your social job posts. Hashtags are commonly used on platforms like Twitter and Instagram to categorize and search for specific topics. By including industry-specific hashtags in your job posts, you can increase their visibility to candidates who are actively searching for opportunities in that field. This can help attract more qualified candidates and improve the overall effectiveness of your social job posts.

Formatting tips for ATS-friendly posts

Consider the formatting of your job posts. ATS software often struggles to read and interpret complex layouts, so it's best to keep your posts simple and easy to read. Use clear headings and bullet points to organize the information effectively. Avoid using images or graphics that may confuse the ATS and cause it to overlook important details. You'll ensure that the ATS can accurately parse the information and match it with relevant candidates by presenting your job posts cleanly and straightforwardly.

The secret to hack your way through the ATS

Bullet points are your best friends when it comes to listing requirements, qualifications, and responsibilities. They make information easy to scan for both the ATS and job seekers. So, break down your job posting into digestible chunks using bullet points, headers, and subheadings for maximum readability and impact.

Make your posts mobile-friendly  

As per the study, 69% of Gen Z job seekers use their smartphones to find new job opportunities. Additionally, another survey conducted by Glassdoor has found that 9 in 10 job seekers use their mobile devices to search for job opportunities.So, don't forget to optimize your social job posts for mobile devices. With the increasing use of smartphones and tablets, many candidates browse and apply for jobs on their mobile devices. Ensure that your job posts are mobile-friendly and can be easily accessed and read on smaller screens. This includes using a responsive design, concise language, and avoiding excessive scrolling. By catering to mobile users, you'll expand your reach and attract a wider pool of potential candidates.

Follow through on the feedback

It is necessary to regularly analyze and optimize your social job posts based on the data and feedback you receive. Pay attention to metrics such as click-through rates, application rates, and time-to-fill to gauge the success of your posts. If you notice low engagement or a lack of qualified applicants, consider adjusting your keywords, formatting, or other elements to improve the performance of your job posts. By continuously monitoring and refining your approach, you can ensure that your social job posts are optimized for ATS and consistently attract top talent.

By implementing these strategies, you'll optimize your social job posts for ATS and increase your chances of finding the right candidates efficiently. Remember to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in ATS technology to ensure that your job posts remain effective and competitive in the ever-evolving job market. This will ultimately help you attract the right candidates and streamline your hiring process, saving time and resources for your organization.