Optimal step and status workflow configuration template for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). See article for full context of application.

1. Step Status Notes
Candidate Application Applied to Req
Recruiter/Sourcer
Resume Review
Rejected Does not meet Minimum Requirements
Proceed to Screen A potential match off the resume/application
requirements
Recruiter/Sourcer Screen Screen in progress
Rejected Rejected = Does not meet Min Requirements
Candidate Withdrew Withdrew = Candidate did not want to proceed
and why notes
Rejected – Future Fit Candidates who are good potential matches to
find in your ATS in the future.
Example: Solid candidate. Needs 1 more year of
experience in X.
Note: You should match these to a Future Fit
Pipeline req or Folder or use #tags by job
families/locations.
Proceed to Hiring Manger
Review
Meets Minimum requirements
Hiring Manager Review Accepted Agrees with the Recruiter screen & submission.
Rejected
Candidate Withdrew Note: If you and the HM agree this is a candidate
that you should keep in touch with, add to Future
Fit.
Rejected – Future Fit See Note
Proceed to first Interview Interviewed and moves to next steps
Business Interview 1 Interview in progress
Rejected
Candidate Withdrew Note: If you and the HM agree this is a candidate
that you should keep in touch with, add to Future
Fit.
Rejected – Future Fit See Note
Business Interview 2 Interview in progress
Rejected
Candidate Withdrew Note: If you and the HM agree this is a candidate
that you should keep in touch with, add to Future
Fit.
Rejected – Future Fit See Note
Business Interview 3 Interview in progress
Rejected
Candidate Withdrew Note: If you and the HM agree this is a candidate
that you should keep in touch with, add to Future
Fit.
Rejected – Future Fit See Note
Offer Offer Extended
Offer Rejected - Travel These statuses are for candidates that reject your
offers.
Note: You should match these to a Future Fit
Pipeline req or Folder or use #tags by job
families/locations.
Offer Rejected – Base Salary
Offer Rejected – Bonus
Offer Rejected – Benefits
Offer Accepted
Background/Reference
Check
In process
Candidate does not meet
Hired Hired
ATS Step & Status Workflow Template