Most job seekers imagine hiring as a straightforward process: you apply, someone reads your resume, you're evaluated fairly, and you move forward or you don't.
That's not how hiring works in the US or Canada. Not even close.
The reason so many qualified candidates feel invisible isn't because they lack experience—it's because they never see the layers between them and the hiring decision.
The Three Real Gatekeepers
When you apply for a role, your application doesn't move through a single "process." It moves through three separate filters, each with a different objective.
The ATS (Applicant Tracking System)
Filters for keyword matches and formatting. Most candidates fail here.
The Recruiter Screen
Quick scan for role fit and red flags. 10-15 seconds per resume.
The Hiring Manager
Evaluates execution capability and culture fit. Only sees pre-filtered candidates.
What You Can Do About It
Understanding the hiring process means you can optimize for each filter:
- Optimize your resume for ATS with role-specific keywords
- Make your value clear in the first 10 seconds
- Demonstrate execution capability, not just experience
- Build relationships before you need them
The candidates who get interviews aren't always the most qualified—they're the ones who understand how hiring actually works.
Need Help Navigating the Hiring Process?
Our resume optimization and application support services help you get past all three gatekeepers.
Learn About Our Services