The secret to job security is free donuts. Don’t believe me? When layoffs are looming, just bring in donuts. Co-workers will sing and praise your name and management always struggles to layoff those who lift the spirits of others.

I’ve worked with some real crabby people too, especially on Monday mornings. But, when there is “free food”, these grouchy workers are temporarily on cloud nine. Give anything away for free, nobody complains. It's that simple.

Over the last week, I’ve reached out to some web based Applicant Tracking System providers and I think the ATS would be powerful tool if only it were free.

What’s the biggest gripe for candidates applying online?

“It’s a Black Hole!” the candidates collectively cry out.

Smart candidates don’t even bother applying online anymore – “That’s so 2002!” a project manager whined the other day.

Jobseekers aren’t lazy, they just realize there is a better way. The times they are a changing and millions are looking for a job right now.

While the economy stinks worse than a bad case of foot fungus, people are signing into Linkedin.com and Facebook.com daily. Why? It’s free and the best way to network. They can get plugged into a group and find work much faster than posting a resume.

Of course, the ATS companies need to make money, nothing in life is for free. However, I say give it away. The money will come. Recruiters will sign up for the free service. Pretty soon everyone will adopt the ATS as the universal must have recruiting tool. And nobody will complain because it’s free and free is good right now.