How Many Times Do I Need to Apply?

Blogging gives the Human Resources department at Tanner one more venue in which to hold a conversation; so frequently we will respond to questions here.

This is a question we get a lot ...

One question we often hear from potential-future-team-members is "How many times do I need to complete an application with Tanner?".

Back in the days when we used paper applications, we usually recommended that people apply once every six months. At the time, we held applications and considered individuals for any positions that seemed to fit their skills.

The problem was that our recruiters worked at a variety of locations and often could not gain immediate access to all applications when a new position opened. The problem was compounded by the fact that it was often difficult to get qualified applications in front of hiring managers.

So our old system of paper applications, twice per year was not very efficient.

Enter the A.T.S.

Now we use an A.T.S. or "applicant tracking system" to better organize our application process. With our system, it is important that applicants apply for every position for which they want to be considered. This requires more active participation from job seekers, since they will need to be aware of new jobs that are posted.

The applicant tracking system we use at Tanner offers several useful tools for the savvy applicant:

• Registration - Prior to completing an application, our system provides a registration opportunity. It takes a little time to complete and requires an email address and password, but once an individual is registered they can easily send a copy of their application to new jobs that are posted. This eliminates the need for going through all the details of completing an application each time a job is posted.


• Log In Now - This link can be found on the Search page of our ATS. Once registered, it allows the candidate to access other available features of the system.


• Check Status - Our applications go through a very defined process, well qualified candidates will have their application viewed by both a Recruiter and a Hiring Manager. The "Check Status" feature allows one to see where his/her application is in the process.


• Job Agent - The "Job Agent" feature monitors new positions being posted. Candidates who sign up for "Job Agent" will be notified by email when a position of interest is available.

So the answer is that applicants should apply often and for every position in which they have an interest. Then they should diligently utilize the tools available on the ATS to track their progress.

Stay tuned (are we supposed to say "stay tuned" when blogging??) to Opportunity Talks for more answers to your burning questions in future posts!

How Many Times Do I Need to Apply?