I Applied to Several Positions but Did Not Get Any Response — Why?

This Job matches my experience & I do qualify but no response, WHY?

This is a common question that comes to our mind as job seekers, and we get frustrated as to why this is happening to us.

If you think that the first obstacle is the recruiter’s judgement or that recruiters are not reviewing your application, then you are missing the bigger picture: it is the Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

These days, the majority of companies and recruiters are using ATS. I will explain in different posts what ATS is, how the ATS algorithm works, what might be missing in a résumé, and points that can help you cross this initial hurdle.

Understanding the Applicant Tracking System

In simple words, ATS is software that allows companies to post jobs and track candidates through profile searches. This software helps recruiters streamline the recruitment process and save time by automatically highlighting matching applicants.

When an applicant applies for a position, the ATS pulls in all the information either through the profile or the uploaded résumé and parses the information into system data fields. ATS will scan the required fields, match them with the criteria set by the recruiter, and highlight the most relevant profiles.

Now here is the catch: if your résumé has a strong match—bingo!—you move to the next step and the recruiter can view your profile. If your résumé fails to meet the set criteria, it ends up in the junk folder or at the bottom of the list.

It is not as simple as it seems to achieve a strong match. ATS does not accept referrals. So what factors can help your résumé be selected? Consider these points before applying for any position:

Key Points to Beat the ATS

1. Job Description: Carefully read the job description—again and again. Most key details (keywords, skills, etc.) are hidden there. AI/ML in ATS plays a key role in matching résumé keywords to the job description. The higher the match score, the better your chances.
2. Keywords: The keywords in your résumé are vital. The ATS algorithm searches for keywords and matches them to the job description. Update your profile if it lacks the right terms.
3. Title: Does your current or previous job title match the job title you’re applying for? Use equivalent titles when appropriate. For example, if you perform the duties of a Marketing Manager but your company lists you as a Content Manager, consider adding both titles if applying for a Marketing Manager role.
4. Filters: Check the filters applied to the posting. If you don’t meet them, don’t apply—your résumé will be filtered out automatically.
5. Selection Criteria: Separate from filters, recruiters may set criteria such as age, job location, or experience. If you don’t meet them, your résumé might pass the ATS but score low. Make sure you qualify.
6. Résumé Structure: Keep it simple and clear. No photos, no tables. A straightforward Word or PDF file is sufficient. Use simple fonts and sizes so the ATS can parse it correctly.
7. Multiple Applications: Don’t apply to every position a company posts. The ATS will highlight repeated applications and may flag desperation. Apply only to roles that truly match your profile and criteria.