As part of our Baby Steps in HR Tech series, we wanted to coverresume parsing and what this technology means for both candidates and recruiters.

“Resume Parsing is a technology that allows you to process online resumes by extracting data in an intelligent way. It helps recruiters to efficiently manage electronic resume documents sent via the internet.”

Recruiters use resume parsing to create a far more convenient and efficient resume and application screening process. Resume parsing helps recruiters out in a huge way. This technology allows recruiters to electronically gather, store and organize the information contained in resumes or applications.

Once this information is obtained, it is easily searchable using keywords and phrases. As each resume is parsed, the program searches for these terms and words and brings the recruiters relevant resumes and applicants. So instead of looking through dozens or hundreds of resumes, this technology sorts and searches them for the recruiter.

Resume parsing technology can also extract contact information, relevant skills, work history and educational background. In addition to these standard bits of information, recruiters can custom tailor fields and forms to solicit information that may not be included in a traditional resume or application. This technology has gotten so good, that some resume parsing programs achieve what is called “near human accuracy” with up to 95% efficiency.

With the use of resume parsing technology, this process is now so fast; recruiters are able to offer a better candidate experience with rapid response times. When there aren’t 40 resumes to read through, recruiters can get to the interview process and fill positions much faster.

Candidates should consider what resume parsing means for them. Because this technology is becoming more cost effective and such an incredible resource saver, it is becoming standard in most recruiting firms and mid- to large-sized organizations. This means that candidates need to change the way they apply for positions and write their resumes.

Candidates used to have a standard formula for writing a great resume, but the way these resumes are processed is totally different now. Candidates no longer craft a resume to wow a recruiter, they need to concentrate on being relevant to a parsing system. This means no more fancy fonts, borders or images.

Additionally, candidates must consider the parsing process from the recruiter’s standpoint. Recruiters will craft a job description or listing with keywords that will also be used in the parsing process. This means that candidates need to locate those keywords or industry terms and use them in relevant places in their resume or application. It’s a pretty easy hack, but few candidates know about it. Knowing about the parsing process helps candidates get their resumes seen by decision makers.

Resume parsing technology is only getting better and more affordable. Although the price of this technology may not have drastically changed, with each upgrade and additional tool, the ROI only increases. Many resume parsing programs have made it possible for candidates to apply with their LinkedIn profile simply with the click of one button. As the technology gets better, resume parsing programs will become standard in HR departments across the board. Knowing your way around this technology will then also be the standard. 

Check out our main blog here.

photo credit: thejbird via photopin cc