ATS What you need to know

ATS What you need to know by Amber Rolfe Not sure what an ATS is? We’ve got you covered… Applicant tracking systems are a popular tool for recruiters, allowing them to sort and filter candidates in order of suitability. But what do they mean for your application â€" and how can you use them to ensure your CV stands out?To make sure you’re clear on how an ATS works, here’s everything you need to know about applicant tracking systems:What is an ATS? ATS stands for Applicant Tracking System, which is a type of software that allows employers to manage their applications more effectively.It works by scanning through each CV that is submitted for a vacancy, using keyword trackers to find the candidates that have the essential skills and experience needed to carry out the role. It then ranks them in order of suitability.For example, if a certain qualification is a prerequisite for a job, an ATS would filter out any applicants who don’t have it.Why do employers use applicant tracking systems? An app licant tracking system makes it quicker and easier for recruiters to assess candidates, and also provide an organised system for them to keep track of their applications.Instead of having to go through each application in-depth, an ATS filters and orders CVs, allowing employers to get straight to the most relevant ones that come through.As a result, companies can speed up the hiring process for themselves â€" and their candidates.And with some roles receiving hundreds of applications every single day, they’ve become an invaluable tool for businesses across the UK.  How do applicant tracking systems work? By inputting CVs into an ATS, a recruiter can set up focused searches using keywords specific to the job they’re hiring for.For example, if an employer is looking for someone with sales experience, they might use ‘sales’ as a keyword to find the candidates that match their criteria. Or, if a specific qualification is essential (for example, AAT), they can carry out a search which focusses specifically on that.This search will cover everything from your work experience to your education, with some ATS systems ranking candidates in order of suitability (based on how well your skills match).CVs can also be stored in the system long-term, meaning that candidates who have submitted theirs a while ago may still get shortlisted for a newer vacancy.So, even if you’re not right for the current role, an ATS could help ensure your application isn’t forgotten.Do applicant tracking systems stop recruiters from seeing my CV? Although an ATS is an effective way of sorting CVs, it doesn’t replace the human part of the recruitment process (contrary to popular CV myths).Instead, it orders candidates in a way that makes it easier for employers to shortlist them. As long as you’ve tailored your CV to the role you’ve applied for, you shouldn’t have to worry about an ATS filtering you out.And, once the best-matching candidates are shown, employers are still req uired to go through and read them in order to pick the ones they think are best.Recruiters may also carry out a number of different keyword searches to pinpoint the most suitable applicants.How should I optimise my CV for an ATS?An ATS doesn’t have to be a hindrance for your application; you just need to find the best ways to make your CV stand out.Here are a few of our top tips to help you tailor yours effectively:Research the company, as well as the role you’re applying forInclude keywords relevant to the jobSpecify your qualifications by nameUse simple formattingUse bullet pointsDon’t forget to include your addressAvoid using graphics, tables, or logosPick a professional fontCheck spelling (again)And, since most of the above is an essential requirement for any CV, you might find that you’re already halfway there to beating applicant tracking systems.How should I format my CV?Just because an employer might use an ATS, it doesn’t mean that you should forget about formatti ng.Your CV should still be two pages long (and no, keyword stuffing won’t work), presented in a logical order, and written in a professional font. Bullet points are also a great way to make your CV easy to digest.For more tips on how to set yours apart, read our CV layout dos and don’ts now.How to write a CVFour tips for optimising your CV for ATSStill searching for your perfect position? View all available jobs now  Find a job What Where Search JobsSign up for more Career AdviceSign up for moreCareer Advice Please enter a valid email addressmessage hereBy clicking Submit you agree to the terms and conditions applicable to our service and acknowledge that your personal data will be used in accordance with our privacy policy and you will receive emails and communications about jobs and career related topics. How to start looking for work

How To Handle Yourself Around Mean Girls

How To Handle Yourself Around Mean Girls Think of your last encounter with a “mean girl”. How did you feel during and after the exchange? Did you make a mental note to come up with ideas on how to handle mean girls next time? After one of my experiences, I did. I was wearing a cute dress and felt strong and solid in my shoes when from left field came a catty comment from a woman I had just met. An outlier comment in stark contrast to the social pleasantries I had received throughout the party as I was introduced to people for the first time. I raised my eyebrows in shock, and sarcastically, defensively replied, “Whoa, nice meeting you too,” as I gulped the last swig of cabernet. It was not my best reaction and sarcasm is not my best color. I paused and realized that I had two choices: let it bug me or let it go. In a previous situation when a woman attempted to ruffle my feathers and smooth her own in one mean girl-esque swoop, I had figuratively stumbled back and most likely headed to the bar for a shot to numb the sting. How To Handle Yourself Around Mean Girls Be aware that in putting you down, she is just trying to bring herself up. This time, however, instead of numbing out I decided to look closer and recalled that when someone makes a comment like that, it could be due to the fact that they feel threatened by you. Upon realizing this, instead of feeling hurt, I felt compassion for her. She had jabbed at me in order to feel better about herself. It has nothing to do with me. Instead of feeling like I got punched in the gut, this awareness allowed me to let it go, like a feather floating off of my shoulder into the air. I even felt myself thinking: I genuinely hope she feels better about herself.  Everyone is doing their best from their current level of awareness.   Smile. Smiling relieves stress, which is good for you. When things are feeling heavy, lighten the mood with a smile or something that will make you giggle. Make it fun again. Discover something impressive. Ask thoughtful questions about her life and you may be able to identify an inspiring accomplishment. Who knows, you may even feel grateful for the inspo and use it to fuel trying a new painting class/bike ride/book. Take care of you. Go do something that makes you feel great! If you are still out, hit the dance floor. Take a lap. Get some water. Mingle with others. If you are home, draw a bath. Crack open your book. Doodle or journal. Clean. Take an action that betters your day. Self-love is top priority. Image:  Celestine Chua

If You Can Do This, You Win - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career

If You Can Do This, You Win - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career What does everyone want more of? Think about the power you would wield, if you knew the answer. What if you knew what everyone secretly and truly wants? What is it that they’re not saying aloud to anyone, but keeping as a dark secret? Go one step further and imagine if you could DELIVER what everyone wants! Now heres news thats disappointing but not surprising. According to the New York Times, you can simply Google “being more” and find out the answer. So many people have typed: “being more …” into this search engine, that Google autocompletes “being more” with these top three answers: 1. Being more confident 2. Being more assertive 3. Being more productive Do you have one of these “being more” goals? Do you want to be more sure of yourself? Do you want to be a better advocate for yourself? Do you want to get more out of every hour you dedicate to work? These are the top three things that most people want. So, it’s likely you do as well. However, the real use of this information is not for your own navel-gazing. The most beneficial insight is how you can use this knowledge about what other people want to develop rewarding relationships with them. No matter what you do: frame it with these top three goals in mind. Discuss what you do in terms of confidence, assertiveness and productivity. Dont define yourself by what you actually do, or the features or functions of your product or service that deliver results. For example, a dentist isn’t selling his ability to fill cavities â€" instead he’s selling confident good looks. A prospective intern isn’t offering to help with social media â€" instead she’s offering to assert a company’s message to prospects, customers, media and investors. A business consultant isn’t recommending a new project management system â€" instead she’s boosting your productivity or the productivity of your workforce and systems. What happens when you speak in terms of what other people truly want? What happens when you offer to deliver one of the three things they rarely admit to needing? Simply put: you win.

The Best Cars for Busy, Working Moms

The Best Cars for Busy, Working Moms When you’re working and parenting, your car is your lifeline. You need a great vehicle that can get you from point A to point B while fulfilling your business needs. But with so many brands and options available for the busy mom and career woman, what’s the right choice? When it comes to choosing the best car, there are a couple of things to consider. Functionality is essentialâ€"something that will meet your needs, including seating, storage, and any personal preferences (i.e. color, leather vs. cloth upholstery, etc.) Next, there’s your car’s appearance. “Your car shouldreflect a professional appearance, as prospects may easily end up seeing it during the course of business â€" for example, a prospect might walk you to your car after a meeting,” writes Wendy Connick of The Balance. Along with keeping your car clean and tidy at all times, she also recommends choosing something that’s appropriate for your job. It shouldn’t be outdated or look unappealing. Appearances mean a lot in a professional environment. As you search for the perfect balance between functional and business appropriate, here are some suggestions. Minivans Minivans are an obvious choice for moms on the go. They are highly functional for kids, especially if you have more than one child. Most modern vans can be used for business trips with coworkers or picking up multiple clients from the airport. Some of the best minivans include: Chrysler Town and Country: Includes an entertainment system, roof rack, backup camera, power side doors and lift gate, and seven-passenger seating. It’s also a very attractive model with sleek lines and aerodynamic design for fuel efficiency. Honda Odyssey: Here’s a less traditional van with a professional look. Some models seat eight passengers with power sliding side doors, folding third-row seating, rearview camera, beverage cooler, entertainment system, and great fuel economy. It also has a built-in vacuum cleaner so that you can tidy your van at a moment’s notice. Toyota Sienna: The Sienna is another roomy, attractive minivan that can fit up to eight passengers. It includes three-zone air conditioning, backup camera, keyless entry, and a touch screen infotainment system. “This minivan actually treats mom like a bona fide grown-up, with a fit and finish that anyone would be proud to drive, says Kristin Varela of MotherProof.com. SUVs Some moms hate the idea of owning a minivan, and one might not be well-suited to your business needs either. You need space for hauling kids and all their gear, but the minivan simply looks unprofessional and feels bulky to drive. Another practical alternative to the minivan is an SUV. For more power, great flexibility, and overall comfort, here are some of the best SUVs to consider this year: GMC Acadia: Although the gas mileage isn’t the best, you have eight full-size seats, and the ability to fold down the third row if you need more storage. There’s plenty of power in the engine, along with a great entertainment system, backup camera, and other perks of a modern vehicle. Honda HR-V: There are just two rows of seating in this modern automobile, but it’s very roomy and has excellent storage in the trunk area. Enjoy a backup camera, Bluetooth, infotainment center, blind spot monitoring, and more. The fuel economy ranges between 28 and 35 mpg, an undeniable perk for the mom on the go. Buick Enclave: This SUV/crossover has three rows of seating that fold down easily to meet your needs. It’s comfortable and boasts all the features of a modern mom vehicle. “The Enclave is a major hit with its luxurious environment, flexible seating and quiet interior,” says Valera. Sedans If you only have one or two kids, an SUV or minivan might be larger than necessary. There are plenty of roomy, high-tech sedans that are great for your business and parenting needs. Here are some of the best for busy moms: Honda Civic: One of the most budget-friendly, comfortable vehicles for moms, the Honda Civic can accommodate a family of four with excellent fuel economy and great features. Modern versions of the vehicle include Bluetooth connections, valuable infotainment systems, roomy trunk space, and sleek aerodynamic designs. Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen: The cargo space is one of the best features of this hatchback sedan. You can fold down the second row of seating if you need more space. Volkswagen has invested in a sleeker front end and a better navigation system for their newer vehicles, so you’re prepared for business or personal needs. Toyota Camry: It shouldn’t be surprising that this stylish sedan with great gas mileage made the list. It features large trunk space for traveling with kids and five comfortable seats for your family commutes or business needs. The latest models boast high quality infotainment centers, sleek consoles, and more.

These note-taking techniques will boost your memory - Debut

These note-taking techniques will boost your memory - Debut Try as we may to eschew hand-written note-taking for good, theres no doubt about it. Apple and Microsoft can throw as many tablets as they want at us. But theres nothing more effective than physical note-taking. However, its difficult to figure out which note-taking techniques are the best ones for  you.  Luckily, Career Geek and Westminster Bridge Student Accommodation (WBSA) have come up with three wicked (and scientific) methods. The fact is, 60% of the information you get from lectures will be forgotten within 9 hours if you dont organise and reflect on them. Therefore, it is our duty to make sure youve got the right tools for all of that info-downloading. Pen and paper at the ready, folks. Lets write some notes. The outline method ??  With this technique, main points can be turned into questions when you review your notes later. ??  However, this technique doesnt highlight the relationships or connectedness between arguments. It may not be the best one for artsy subjects like philosophy or literature. The Cornell method ??  This seems complicated, but apparently printable Cornell notepaper is available online. Fancy. ??  If youre a little on the lazy side, the summary section is an extra bit of work that may annoy you with time. However, takeaways can be super effective so maybe the effort will be worth it. The mapping method ??  This is great for quickly mocking up relationships and connections between topics. Also, this can be cleaned up later with loads of cool colours, or even online.   ??  TBH, this method gets messy, and fast. It probably wont be suitable for lectures where you cant expect or predict the topic. This one is perhaps good for reflective notes, rather than in-the-moment notes. Whichever method you choose, always make sure you set aside the time after your lectures to sort your notes out. Your exam term self will thank you later. Feature Image ©  Unsplash Download the Debut app and you could totally grab yourself a summer internship  way before anyone else. Connect with Debut on Facebook and Twitter

Cold Calls in Job Search

Cold Calls in Job Search Hey, how are those cold calls working for you? Nobody is good at cold calling. Well, few are.   It takes confidence, thick skin and practice.  So, why are you doing it? Heres Geoffrey Gitomers work around: Pssst: This is blurry, it isnt your vision! Take Aways: We are smarter consumers and can smell cold calls a mile away! The reality isno one likes to feel they are being sold (or being convinced to meet with someone who might try and sell us)! We tend to buy from people we like and/or trust. And we put more faith in buying stuff that has been recommended by people we know-like-respect-value. Instead of reaching out coldly, attract people by showing your value and likeability: Write Speak Network Ask for a referral With social media tools, it is quite possible that you can connect via a friend, connection or fellow tweeter far more easily than via a cold call, so what are you waiting for? Your Actions Have you asked EVERYONE you know for an intro to that key person at that great company? Have you attended a professional association relevant to your search? Have you written or presented anything on your topic of expertise? (What are you waiting for) As a last resort, sure, go ahead, cold call. You never know. But have you tried everything else first?

The Basics of How to Get a Resume Writing Certification

The Basics of How to Get a Resume Writing CertificationAs a college graduate, you probably know how difficult it is to get a job, but it doesn't mean that getting a resume is easy. Resume writing isn't just about using technical words and creating a resume; it's about having enough knowledge of a specific field to write effective resumes.There are many colleges and universities that offer their students the opportunity to get a resume writing certification so that they can gain the required knowledge to be able to write better resumes. Aside from gaining knowledge on how to write a resume, resume writing certification courses also give students the opportunity to take care of technical aspects such as creating a resume template and more. However, the most important aspect of resume writing certification is being able to take care of all the technical details in an application so that it can be able to convince a potential employer.Students who want to know how to get a resume writing certification should first study and master the skills needed in order to write effective resumes. One way to get a resume writing certification is to take part in a course where the entire process of resume writing is included, such as choosing the right fonts, writing a professional introduction, and making sure that your resume focuses on the major benefits of the job and that you don't focus on only the education needed for the job.After getting a resume writing certification, students have the chance to know how to write a resume for different companies. They can take a resume written by a professional resume writing company and edit it according to their own standards. Once they have edited the resume, they will have the chance to submit it to various different companies so that they can showcase their skills and show them to employers.Getting a resume writing certification also allows students to meet different people who can help them with their resumes. It is a good way to get the experience that they need to do their own resumes since they will be asked to do it by companies in order to get their resumes approved.In order to get a resume writing certification, students first need to search for a course that will offer them the necessary skills that they need to write resumes. Students can search for resume writing courses on the Internet.Once a student gets a resume writing certification, they can then apply for a job or internship that they want to get, depending on how big or small the company is. Their resume will be one of the first things that the potential employer sees, which is why it is very important to make sure that the resume is perfect, just like how their own resume should be perfect as well.If you want to know how to get a resume writing certification, then you can start today. Just remember that learning resume writing is not something that you can do in a day or two, but rather, it takes time and that you will learn more over time and continue to grow as a writer and as a person.