Application processes are becoming increasingly automated, and even small employers now find themselves buried under piles of applications from around the world for every single position they offer. This creates an overwhelming workload for HR departments, pushing companies to seek solutions that streamline their hiring processes and optimize the search for talent.
One of the most popular tools for this is Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These systems have become a go-to solution for many companies to manage their hiring processes. ATS act as workflow management tools, helping organize applications and often filtering out candidates who don’t appear to fit the role based on pre-set criteria. However, while these systems are widely used, they are far from perfect. They solve some problems but create plenty of new ones along the way.
From failing to read certain file formats or sections of a CV, to rejecting candidates who don’t use specific keywords, to the risk of built-in bias or human error during setup, ATS have no shortage of flaws. In many cases, these tools prioritize convenience for the company over fairness for the applicant, potentially causing businesses to miss out on top talent.
In our webinar, we’ll take a closer look at the controversies surrounding ATS. We’ll discuss the most common issues these systems cause for job seekers, explore cases of misuse by employers, and uncover how these "helpful" tools can sometimes do more harm than good. Most importantly, we’ll share tips on how applicants can fight back against these relentless algorithms and increase their chances of getting noticed in an automated world.
Speaker
Victoria McLean
Founder, CEO, City CV
Victoria McLean
Victoria spent her earlier career in global recruitment before joining Goldman Sachs and then Merrill Lynch, where she delivered insights that transformed recruitment strategy and influenced multinational resource allocation. In 2009 she founded City CV to bridge a market gap for top-quality CV and profile writing. Since then Victoria has grown City CV into an international client-focused business that empowers job seekers and helps companies to protect their most important resource – their people.
Frequently featured as a careers expert in leading media, Victoria regularly wins major international industry awards. She is in high demand as a keynote speaker at international events and team building days. She also runs workshop and webinar programmes for City CV’s corporate partners. Passionate about DE&I, Victoria is a regular speaker at women’s networks. Her original insights address the imposter syndrome, the impact of menopause on business success, setting boundaries at work, and staying visible in a hybrid world.
Today, Victoria and every member of the City CV team share a common goal – to change lives. Under Victoria’s leadership, City CV’s team of writers and executive coaches transform careers and guide businesses on how best to inspire, raise brand awareness, take care of the people they let go and optimise employee engagement.
Victoria is CEO of City CV and of Hanover Talent Solutions. She is on the board of the Hanover Group, a Corporate Board Member at Rainbow Trust, and Board Advisor to the BACVW. Professional memberships include the Institute of Directors, ChairX, Career Directors International, and the Professional Association of Resume Writers.