How to choose your ATS (or ATS + CRM) software?

Treat your recruitment! This is the miracle recipe to boost your business performance .
However, finding the talents adapted to your expectations, people in tune with your state of mind, those with the right qualifications for a position sometimes falls under the obstacle course.
It too often happens to pass, without knowing it, alongside the rare pearl , because your recruitment has dragged or the CVs have been lost.
This is why ATS software is revolutionary. This software will simply change the life of your HR and allow you to optimize your recruitments .
They are more and more numerous on the market, it is therefore essential to choose them well so as not to end up with a tool completely unsuitable for your needs.
We give you some tips here to guide you in this research and find the one that suits you.
What is an ATS?

An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) is a recruitment management software offered to companies.
Thanks to this new tool, recruitment firms and human resources teams will save precious time thanks to various features that we will develop later.
We explain to you first why you need an ATS at all costs.
An overview of applications
Most ATS centralize the various recruitment processes as well as the different tools.
Forget the Excel files with three different versions, a Word document for the interview report that has not been stored in the right file, a meeting where the candidate was not invited ... via a single platform , you can consult all the information on all candidates.
The people concerned will therefore have access to the same space and will be able to collaborate directly with each other. This is particularly practical when applications are multiplied and there are simultaneously several positions to be power.
This new organization makes it possible to limit information losses and misunderstandings within the teams.
A considerable time saving
This is undeniably one of the first reasons that push recruiters to use this type of tool. The recruitment process is punctuated by numerous chronophagous and repetitive tasks that spoil precious HR time:
- Post the same ad for the 10th time on different recruitment sites;
- replanning an appointment that has not been well wedged;
- etc.
Thanks to the automation of certain processes, people responsible for recruitment will be able to give up time to focus more on their core business.
higher added value tasks . This necessarily affects the quality of recruitments .
Optimization of the recruitment process
ATS software is a good way to improve the recruitment process. It allows you to refine the research and thus avoid ending up with candidates who do not correspond to the profile.
Optimizing upstream selection avoids multiplying unnecessary interviews and thus optimizes its chances of finding the rare pearl.
The tool allows you to the processes in real time Thus, recruiters can have access to file information. This avoids receiving new applications for the same position when it is about to be provided.
What criteria to take into account when selecting the ATS software?
There are many ATS software each with their specificities. Some features are common to all software, but others are specific to certain platforms .
Take the time to define your expectations by classifying your criteria in order of importance. This will help you when choosing your software . These are some tips to see more clearly.
Automatic supply distribution
First of all, you can create an easily job offer thanks to the platform. Then, the software can allow you to follow your recruitment processes on several sites at the same time (Linkedin, Indeed, Pôle Emploi, etc.).
Centralization of information
The platform will allow you to centralize the information from the various candidates. She collects the CVs received via different channels. Some ATS allow you to recover the candidates data via LinkedIn and automatically fill out sheets available on the software.
Platforms using artificial intelligence will be able to transform any CV into a candidate. coordinates (at the risk of being wrong), experiences and skills by hand Everything is automated!
Selection of profiles
The software will make you a preselection of profiles for a position based on criteria that you have defined. The matching of candidates with a job offer, optimized by the use of artificial intelligence, will save you precious time.
ATS, like Marvin , also allow you to build a pool of candidates that can be mobilized at any time. The information is updated regularly and the use of many filters (level of experience, business, telephone number, note) will allow you to quickly find potential candidates for a job offer that has just been released.
For companies specializing in recruitment (head hunters for example), some ATS offer integrated CRMs (Customer Relationship Management). You can concentrate in a single space the information of companies and that of candidates. It will make your life easier to find the right fits!
Application monitoring
Thanks to a customizable platform , you can follow the evolution of applications (selected candidates, those in process, the offers made).
It will also be easier for you to organize the appointments . It is indeed possible to synchronize your Google Meet appointments in Calendar directly from your ATS.
In some cases, KPIS (number of job offers posted online, number of CVs received, number of candidates selected) are made available to you. They will help you better define your goals , target your weaknesses and thus better adapt your recruitment strategy .
All people involved in the recruitment process will have access to this platform and will be able to enter their own information via their profile. You can therefore follow the activity of your recruiters individually and thus refine your strategy.
We have listed here a number of features, not all are available in all ATS software, target those that are most important for you. We advise you to take a look at the Marvin ATS which checks all the boxes mentioned!
What questions to ask during a demonstration?

The best way to know if software is right for you is to be able to request a demonstration from the supplier.
But beware, it is prepared upstream! These are some ideas of themes to approach so as not to have unpleasant surprises once the contract has been signed.
How can I import my existing databases?
Being able to convert your old databases to your ATS software is essential so as not to lose the precious information you have accumulated over the years.
Take the time to understand if possible, what types of documents can be used, if the software is compatible with your own base .
How is teams onboarding?
Finding yourself with software that you cannot use can be a real nightmare. So remember to ask if training is provided by the software producer to product features as quickly as possible.
For some ATS you can have access to support teams at any time after the first handling of the software.
How does this tool adapt to the specifics of my business?
Try to understand how the tool can be adapted to your own needs. Some software may offer you to personalize certain aspects of the product, to modify features so that it better meets your expectations.
You can ask them if they work with companies in the same sector, they may even have advice to give you on the best practices !
How can I terminate the contract?
Do not forget this question so as not to be blocked with software. It is important to know:
- the duration of engagement;
- costs linked to an anticipated breach of contract;
- The existence or not of a free trial.
It is essential to be able to answer all these questions before making your choice.
If you have a doubt, ask for details, there is no need to rush. If you have any questions regarding ATS software do not hesitate to contact our Marvin teams !
Conclusion
As you can see, ATS software will change your life and save you considerable time .
So don't hesitate, take the course! However, to optimize your results, take the time to select the one suitable for your activity .
What features are the most useful for you? How to adapt the platform to your needs ? Who will use it in your businesses? These are the questions you need to ask yourself to properly choose your ATS software .