As a startup, every dollar counts. You’re building a company from the ground up, and while scaling quickly is often the goal, it’s important to manage costs efficiently. One question many startups face is whether they need an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) from the beginning — or if there are alternatives that can get the job done without straining the budget.
What is an ATS?
An ATS is a software solution designed to streamline the recruitment process. It automates tasks like posting jobs, tracking applicants, and managing communications with candidates. For larger companies with high-volume hiring, it’s an essential tool that keeps things organized and efficient.
When You Don’t Have the Budget for an ATS
If an ATS doesn’t fit into your budget right now, don’t worry — you still have plenty of options. Here’s how you can manage recruitment without one:
- Use Free Job Boards and Platforms
Leverage free or low-cost job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn to post your openings. Many of these platforms offer basic features for posting jobs and managing applicants at no cost. While these might lack the automation of an ATS, they offer broad reach and can still attract quality candidates. - Create a “Careers” Page on Your Website
A simple “Careers” section on your company’s website allows you to post openings and direct candidates to send applications via email. This gives you full control over the process, although you’ll need to track applications manually. Google Forms or basic web forms can also be useful to collect applications in an organized way. - Rely on Networking and Referrals
Especially in the early stages, your best hires may come from your own network or through employee referrals. Encourage your team to share job openings within their professional circles, on LinkedIn, or other social platforms. Not only can this save money, but it can also lead to high-quality, trusted candidates who align with your company culture. - Organize Applications Manually
Without an ATS, you’ll need to keep things organized the old-fashioned way: spreadsheets, email folders, and manual follow-ups. While this may sound labor-intensive, it’s manageable when you’re hiring for a few key positions. Tools like Google Sheets can help you track applicants and stages in the hiring process, while calendar reminders can ensure timely follow-ups. - Partner with Recruitment Agencies for Key Hires
If you have a critical role to fill but lack the resources to manage a large volume of applicants, consider partnering with a recruitment agency. They can help source and screen candidates, though this comes with its own costs. However, it can be a smart investment for hiring top talent without overwhelming your small team.
When to Consider an ATS
- You’re scaling rapidly with multiple open roles.
- You’re receiving a high volume of applications.
- You need to ensure compliance with hiring regulations.
If you decide you need an ATS but have budget constraints, explore affordable options like Breezy HR or Workable.
Final Thoughts: Do What Works for Your Stage
As a startup, your recruitment strategy should match your stage of growth. In the early days, it’s often about being scrappy, leveraging networks, and finding tools that work within your budget. An ATS is a valuable tool, but it’s not always a necessity from day one. Start with cost-effective alternatives, and only invest in an ATS when your hiring demands start to outgrow your current system.
The key is to find a balance — you want to keep recruitment efficient without over investing before the time is right. When your startup hits the point where tracking applicants manually becomes unsustainable, it’s time to explore ATS options. Until then, focus on attracting talent in ways that align with your budget and growth goals.
Key Takeaways
- ATS isn’t always necessary from day one: Startups can effectively manage recruitment using free tools and manual methods initially.
- Alternative strategies can be effective: Networking, referrals, and free job boards can yield quality candidates without the cost of an ATS.
- Invest in ATS when scaling demands it: Consider implementing an ATS when hiring volume increases significantly or when manual tracking becomes inefficient.
Need help streamlining your hiring process? Contact us today for a free consultation on how we can support your recruitment efforts, even without an ATS.