What’s the best and worst Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and why?

Choosing the right Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can significantly impact your hiring process, so it’s great that you’re gathering insights. Here’s a breakdown of some experiences with popular ATS options:

Best ATS Options:

1. Greenhouse:
2. Pros: User-friendly interface, strong integration capabilities with other HR tools, and a robust set of features for managing the hiring process. Many users appreciate its focus on structured interviewing and collaboration among hiring teams.

3. Cons: Some find it a bit pricey compared to other options, especially for small businesses.

4. Lever:

5. Pros: Great for collaborative hiring and user experience. The CRM features are a big plus for maintaining candidate relationships, and it has good reporting capabilities.
6. Cons: Can be overwhelming with its robust features if you only need basic tracking; some users wish for more customization in reporting.

Worst ATS Options:

1. Workday:
2. Pros: Comprehensive HR suite that integrates well with other HR functions. Good reporting tools.

3. Cons: It can be cumbersome for users, with a complicated interface that can be unappealing for hiring managers and candidates alike. Implementation can be time-consuming.

4. Jobvite:

5. Pros: Strong recruiting features and good for sourcing candidates.
6. Cons: Common complaints about its customer service and sometimes buggy software that can lead to a frustrating experience for users.

Additional Considerations:

• User Experience: It’s essential to involve your team in the evaluation, as each user may have different needs.
• Integration: Consider how well the ATS integrates with your existing systems (HRIS, payroll, etc.).
• Customization: Having flexibility in customizing workflows and candidate assessments can be vital for different roles you hire for.
• Candidate Experience: A user-friendly application process helps attract candidates, so an ATS with a smooth application interface is crucial.

It’s worth trialing demos and getting feedback from your team to find the best fit for your hiring needs. Good luck with your selection!