Understanding resume parsing isn’t all that complicated, especially if you’ve been in the recruitment space for a while. 

Even if you’re just starting out, you can use a free resume parsing software to quickly grasp the basics and see how it works in action.

So, let’s get ready to feel like:

resume parsing guide

What is resume parsing?

Resume parsing is a process where your resume parser scans CVs and extracts important information.

It looks for details like the applicant’s name, contact information, work experience, education, and skills.

But what is a resume parser?

It is nothing but a software program that is generally (in most cases) pre-installed with your Applicant Tracking System (ATS).

The tool organizes basic candidate information into a structured format, making it easier to review and compare candidates quickly. This saves time and helps you find the best candidates efficiently.

Wondering how resume parsing works?

As mentioned previously, an ATS usually provides recruiters with an already-installed resume parser through applicant tracking system integration.

Suppose a recruiter has received a CV from candidate X.

A resume parsing software will scan candidate X’s CV and extract important information such as— name, contact information, address, relevant work experience, skills, certifications, and so on, and store them in a database for further intervention.

4 main reasons why recruiters must use a resume parser

1. Saves you time

Utilizing resume parsing can save you from retyping candidate information.

Once you let these machine learning tools do their work, you can focus on other important tasks that might need close attention.

Consider using machine learning in other automation strategies as well. If you pay attention to proper image annotation and provide the right data, your AI model can easily learn and complete various tasks for you.

There are a lot of free resume parsing tools out there in the market, but the best bet would be to opt for a free trial of an ATS that provides the functionality of a CV parser in it.

2. Efficient data entry & reduced margin of error

Sometimes, candidates may submit resumes with a lot of subsections without following a basic format.

Without a parser, it would honestly be difficult for recruiters to manually extract or differentiate such data. This is where it comes in extremely handy.

Instead of spending hours reading resumes and deducing which candidate is a better fit for your client, a CV parser will simplify your process by just providing you with the data you need.

As a recruiter or a hiring manager, you must know that candidate experience is of utmost importance.

3. Access candidate data from one place

It’s easier to compare and select candidates when you have all your candidate data in one place.

Using a resume parser built into an AT lets recruiters find highly qualified candidates for a certain position. This is much better than manually scanning each resume and searching for qualifications.

Paired up with Artificial Intelligence, they can bring about tons of benefits for your agency if utilised properly.

4. Maintains a standard format

Recruiters receive an insane number of resumes on a weekly basis in various formats like .pdf, .docx, and so on.

A CV parser can help them standardize the format in which resumes are stored in their database. This helps them efficiently manage huge candidate pools and avoid confusion.

With the above benefits of resume parsing, HR and hiring professionals must seriously consider such technology, which is not just cost-effective but also methodical.