Simplifying Candidate Onboarding Process with the Help of an Applicant Tracking System

As soon as an application is submitted, the Applicant Tracking System springs into action, assuming control over resume organization, communication tracking, and streamlining the entire hiring process. Serving as a centralized repository, it eliminates the need for complicated spreadsheets or scattered email conversations, simplifying the recruitment journey.  

Why use an ATS in candidate onboarding?

While many people primarily associate ATS with recruitment, its advantages go well beyond that stage. In fact, an ATS can be a powerful tool during onboarding, ensuring a seamless transition from candidate to employee. Here’s how you can use ATS to enhance candidate onboarding for your organization:

Automating onboarding processes  

Say goodbye to manual data entry and hello to automated workflows. With the ability to effortlessly send offer letters, request background checks, and coordinate training sessions, an ATS optimizes administrative tasks, freeing up HR personnel to prioritize strategic initiatives and elevate overall productivity.

According to a study, automating onboarding tasks results in a 16% increase in the retention rate for new hires.  

Employee self-service portals

Imagine a world where new hires have the tools to navigate their onboarding journey with ease. Thanks to employee self-service portals provided by certain ATS platforms, this world becomes a reality. These portals empower employees by giving them access to important information, required training modules, and the ability to update their personal details. By putting the power in the hands of employees, these portals not only enhance their onboarding experience but also lighten the administrative load on HR teams.

Integration with human resources & talent management systems  

The secret to success lies in effective collaboration. To enhance productivity and streamline operations, today's ATS platforms seamlessly integrate with various HR and talent management systems. These systems encompass HRIS, payroll software, and performance management tools. By integrating these systems, you can effortlessly share data, automate repetitive tasks, and ensure a seamless transition from recruitment to onboarding and beyond.  

According to Strategic human resource management, 20% of companies plan to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their ATS within the next five years.

Centralized candidate management  

With an ATS, recruiters and hiring managers can instantly retrieve all candidate information stored in a central database. This centralized approach fosters collaboration, breaks down communication silos, and offers a holistic view of each candidate's hiring process, from application submission to ultimately candidate onboarding.  

Data analysis and reporting  

The power of an ATS lies in its ability to capture data on crucial metrics like time-to-hire, offer acceptance rates, and onboarding completion times. This data provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the onboarding process, enabling organizations to identify areas for improvement. By implementing data-driven optimizations, organizations can enhance the overall experience for candidates and employees, creating a more efficient and satisfying onboarding journey.

Feedback system

Hiring resources teams can also gather feedback from new hires using an ATS, allowing them to pinpoint areas for improvement in the onboarding process. By monitoring performance metrics like time-to-productivity and employee retention rates within the system, they can assess the success of the onboarding program.

Did you know? According to a study in 2022, talent is 4x more likely to consider your company for a future opportunity when you offer them constructive feedback.  

The key takeaway

By using an Applicant Tracking System (ATS), companies can make welcoming new employees smoother and more enjoyable. With the help of an Applicant Tracking System, HR teams can easily communicate, streamline paperwork, and create tailor-made onboarding plans. Consequently, the entire experience becomes less daunting for all parties involved, allowing more time to focus on ensuring that new hires feel welcomed and ready to embark on their new roles. These systems assist HR teams in efficiently adhering to crucial rules and regulations, guaranteeing proper execution. Ultimately, an ATS significantly enhances the onboarding journey for both the company and the new employee.