Welcome to our guide on how to screen resumes. The process of screening resumes is a critical step in the hiring process as it allows you to quickly and efficiently identify the most qualified candidates for the position.
With the rise of technology, this process has become even more efficient and effective. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps and best practices for screening resumes using technology, including how to create a list of keywords and qualifications, how to use a resume screening software or an applicant tracking system (ATS), and how to evaluate and select the best candidates for the position. We will also provide additional tips on how to ensure consistency and compliance, and how to make the process as user-friendly as possible for applicants.
This guide is designed to help you streamline your hiring process, find the best candidates and make the best hiring decision.
- Step 1: Create a list of keywords and qualifications
- Step 2: Use resume screening software or an applicant tracking system (ATS)
- Step 3: Review the top-ranked resumes
- Step 4: Eliminate any resumes that do not meet the minimum qualifications
- Step 5: Look through the remaining resumes in more detail
- Step 6: Narrow down the list of resumes
- Step 7: Schedule interviews with the top candidates
- Step 8: Evaluate the candidates and select the best one
Step 1: Create a list of keywords and qualifications
Start by creating a list of keywords and qualifications that are relevant to the position you are trying to fill. These keywords should be taken from the job description and should include both hard skills (e.g. programming languages, certifications) and soft skills (e.g. problem-solving, teamwork). Additionally, make sure to include any industry-specific terminology or acronyms that may be used in resumes. This list of keywords will be used later when searching resumes.
Step 2: Use resume screening software or an applicant tracking system (ATS)
Use resume screening software or an applicant tracking system (ATS) to filter through resumes. These tools can quickly scan resumes for keywords and qualifications, and rank them based on how well they match the job requirements. ATS can also be used to manage the entire application process, from posting the job to tracking the progress of each candidate.
Additionally, some ATS allow you to set up custom fields or forms that applicants must complete, which can be used to gather additional information that may not be included in the resume, such as salary expectations or availability.
Step 3: Review the top-ranked resumes
Review the top-ranked resumes to ensure that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position. Look for candidates with the right mix of education, experience, and skills. Verify that the candidates have the necessary degrees, certifications, or relevant work experience.
Step 4: Eliminate any resumes that do not meet the minimum qualifications
Eliminate any resumes that do not meet the minimum qualifications. These resumes will not be considered any further in the process.
Step 5: Look through the remaining resumes in more detail
Look through the remaining resumes in more detail, paying special attention to any relevant work experience, education, and skills. Look for candidates who have experience in similar roles or have worked in similar industries. Additionally, pay attention to the format and structure of the resumes, as well as the language used. A well-organized, error-free resume is a good indication of a candidate’s attention to detail and professionalism.
Step 6: Narrow down the list of resumes
Narrow down the list of resumes to a smaller group of candidates who you believe are the best fit for the position. This group should include candidates who have the necessary qualifications, experience, and skills, as well as those who have shown potential in their resumes. It’s a good idea to keep a checklist of the qualifications and skills that are required for the position, and use it to evaluate the resumes.
Step 7: Schedule interviews with the top candidates
Schedule interviews with the top candidates. This can be done through the ATS or manually. Prepare a list of questions for the interviews that will help you to evaluate the candidates’ qualifications, experience, and skills. It’s also a good idea to include behavioural-based questions that will help you understand how the candidate will perform on the job.
Step 8: Evaluate the candidates and select the best one
After the interviews have been completed, evaluate the candidates based on their qualifications, experience, and interview performance, and select the best candidate for the position. Keep in mind that the best candidate is not necessarily the one with the most experience or qualifications, but the one who is the best fit for the position and the company.
Additional Tips:
→ Before using any technology, make sure you are aware of the legal regulations and ethical considerations in your region and industry.
→ Be consistent in the way you evaluate resumes and do not discriminate based on any protected characteristics.
→ Using resume screening software is not a replacement for human review, it is a continuous tool to assist it. It is important to remember that technology can only do so much, and it is still necessary for a human to review resumes and conduct interviews.
→ When using ATS, consider the applicant’s experience with the platform, to make sure the process is as user-friendly as possible, and to avoid potential barriers to entry for certain candidates.
→ Consider setting up a scoring system to evaluate resumes, based on the keywords and qualifications that you’ve identified. This will help you to quickly and objectively assess resumes, and will ensure that you’re considering all relevant factors when determining which candidates to move forward with.
→ Don’t forget to check the candidates’ references. It will give you a more comprehensive view of their qualifications, skills and experience.
→ Keep track of the resumes you’ve reviewed and the status of each candidate. This will help you to stay organized and ensure that you’re not accidentally duplicating your efforts.
Screening resumes is a crucial step in the hiring process, and using technology can make it more efficient and effective. By following these steps and tips, you can effectively screen resumes using technology and find the best candidates for the position. With the help of ATS, you can streamline the process and make it more efficient, allowing you to focus on evaluating the top candidates and making the best hiring decision.
