Remember, technology doesn’t replace human screening. After automated systems have sorted and ranked candidates, a person will verify that you meet the requirements and should be invited to the next step.

There's a wide range of practices being used, from traditional to hi-tech. As a job seeker, you need to quickly assess how sophisticated the organization is and adapt accordingly.

Tips for responding:

• Assess the employer's screening methods by visiting its Web site. If there's an option to upload a resume, assume there's a resume management system on the backend of the Web site. Apply online!
  
  
• If the position is published online, be sure to apply online where this option is offered.
  
  
• Don't mail or fax a resume unless these are the only options offered.
  
  
• Make sure your electronic resume is keyword searchable.
  
  
• Don't rely on your cover letter when it comes to keywords. Cover letters will seldom be searched, even if they are stored electronically with your resume.
  
  
• Look for the opportunity to upload your resume to your targeted organization’s Web sites.
  
  
• When networking, offer to e-mail your Word-formatted resume after the meeting. Remember, this will ensure faster distribution and you will also avoid the problems associated with scanning your resume if it needs to be converted to electronic format.
  
  
• Do use cover letters–a person will read them if your resume is retrieved from the database.