Myth Debunking 101: Low ATS resume ranking means disqualification from selection process

Applicant tracking systems (ATS) have become an integral part of the resume screening process. These systems primarily scan resumes for required keywords and qualifications, and rank them as per suitability so that the hiring manager can shortlist candidates easily. Many individuals hold the opinion that if their resumes receive a lower ranking on ATS, they do not stand a chance to move ahead in the selection process.

ATS undoubtedly has a crucial role to play but it’s not the final decision-maker, and the lowest-ranking resumes are not necessarily discarded. Hence, it’s important to dispel the myth that ATS is the final word in resume selection.

Let us first understand the extent to which employers rely on ATS and the situations where they choose to overrule ATS rankings.

While these systems help hiring managers streamline the initial screening process, they also consider additional factors before discarding a resume, says Murali S, CHRO of AscentHR. A candidate’s unique skills, relevant experience or exceptional qualities are noticed through other means as well — like a strong cover letter, personal recommendation or networking connection.

According to Monica Jamwal, Head and Managing Director of Talent Solutions at ANSR, hiring managers might override ATS rankings if a candidate with unique skills or experiences that are crucial to the role are not fully captured by ATS keywords. Candidates who come highly recommended through trusted referrals or networking connections also get priority despite a lower ATS ranking. Similarly, she says that a candidate whose profile demonstrates a strong cultural fit or alignment with company values might be considered more favourably.

How hiring managers ensure suitable candidates are not overlooked.

To prevent qualified candidates from being overlooked, hiring managers often use a combination of strategies, says Murali. They may manually review resumes that seem promising despite a lower ranking. At the same time, they place considerable importance on networking, referrals and personal recommendations. These can outweigh ATS scores and provide valuable insights into a candidate’s potential.

Jamwal says hiring managers evaluate candidates based on their experience, skills and potential, rather than solely relying on ATS rankings. Plus, like Murali, she also confirms that candidates recommended through trusted sources or networks often receive more weight, as these endorsements can validate a candidate’s suitability and reliability.

Mistakes to avoid while drafting ATS-friendly resumes

Murali lists a few common mistakes that individuals make while drafting resumes and get a lower ATS ranking. Using complex formatting, jargon or failing to incorporate relevant keywords from the job description are the common mistakes.

He advises candidates to ensure their resumes use standard formatting, incorporate job-specific keywords naturally and avoid graphics or unusual fonts. Even with a low ranking, clearly presenting relevant experience and skills can enhance visibility, he adds.

Adding to these, Jamwal says it’s of utmost importance to not use generic content; if possible, follow up with a direct contact at the company or use networking connections to ensure your resume is reviewed.

Sometimes a resume receives lower ranking even after avoiding these mistakes. But both the experts say such candidates have also got hired. For example, Murali says a candidate was initially ranked low due to a less-than-perfect keyword match but was ultimately chosen because of a strong reference and unique experience that was not well represented in the CV.

Exceptional interview performance, unique qualifications and endorsements from a trusted employee or a networking connection can prompt a closer look at a candidate’s resume, despite a low ranking, adds Jamwal.