The Unseen Job Application Hurdle You Must Overcome

Many job seekers believe their CVs are rejected by Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). The truth is, your CV often never reaches the ATS. Before any software scans your application, there is a hidden screening step that filters out candidates in seconds. Understanding this step can improve your chances of moving forward in the hiring process.

What Happens Before the ATS Sees Your CV

Before ATS software scans your CV, companies use a manual or semi-manual process to check if you meet the basic job requirements quickly. This step is often called initial screening, pre-qualification, or minimum requirements check. In South Africa, many companies refer to this as passing through the “Walter Pass,” a nickname for this first gate.

This screening is designed to save time by removing candidates who clearly do not fit the role. Recruiters or HR assistants look for key criteria such as:

• Required qualifications or certifications

• Specific skills or experience

• Essential documents, like a driver’s license or professional registration

• Availability or location requirements

  
  

If you don’t meet these minimum standards, your CV is rejected before it ever reaches the ATS or a hiring manager.

Who Conducts This Screening and How

This early screening is often done by junior staff or automated tools on job platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed. The people involved may include:

• HR assistants

• Junior recruiters

• Talent acquisition interns

• Administrative staff

  
  

Sometimes, simple yes/no questions on job portals act as automated filters. For example, a question might ask if you have a valid driver’s license or a certain qualification. Answering “No” can immediately disqualify you.

Why So Many CVs Fail at This Stage

Many candidates focus on tailoring their CVs for ATS keywords or recruiter preferences. While this is important, it misses the bigger problem: failing to clear the first gate. If you don’t meet the basic requirements, no amount of keyword optimisation will help.

For example, if a job requires a driver’s license and you don’t have one, your application will be rejected immediately. This is a common barrier in South Africa, where driving is often essential for many roles.

My Experience With the “Walter Pass”

When I first applied for jobs, I faced this exact challenge. Every company asked if I had a driver’s license. I didn’t, so my applications were rejected without further consideration. This was frustrating because I had other skills and experience, but the pre-screening step blocked me.

Eventually, I understood that to get past this gate, I needed to meet the minimum requirements or find roles that did not require a license. This lesson taught me the importance of carefully reading job adverts and preparing before applying.

How to Pass the Pre-Screening Step

To improve your chances of passing the “Walter Pass,” follow these practical tips:

• Read job adverts carefully. Identify must-have requirements and only apply if you meet them.

• Answer screening questions honestly but strategically. If a question is optional, consider how your answer affects your chances.

• Highlight essential qualifications early in your CV. Make it easy for screeners to spot key criteria.

• Prepare supporting documents. Have certifications, licenses, or references ready to upload or present.

• Apply for roles that match your profile. Avoid wasting time on jobs where you clearly don’t meet minimum standards.

  
  

By focusing on these steps, you reduce the risk of being rejected before your CV is even reviewed.

What Comes After the Pre-Screening

Once you pass the initial gate, your CV enters the ATS system. The ATS scans for keywords, experience, and skills relevant to the job. If you clear this stage, recruiters or hiring managers will review your application in detail.

Each stage requires different preparation. The pre-screening step is about meeting basic eligibility. The ATS stage is about matching keywords and formatting. The final stage is about demonstrating your fit and personality.

Final Thoughts on Overcoming the Hidden Hurdle

Many job seekers spend hours perfecting their CVs for ATS algorithms, but overlook the first and most crucial hurdle: the manual or automated pre-screening step. This hidden gate filters out candidates quickly based on minimum requirements.

Understanding this process helps you focus your efforts where they matter most. Make sure you meet the basic criteria before applying, prepare your documents, and tailor your applications accordingly. This approach increases your chances of moving beyond the unseen hurdle and getting noticed by recruiters.

Start by carefully reviewing your qualifications against the job adverts. If you don’t meet a key requirement, consider gaining that skill or license or look for roles better suited to your profile. Passing the “Walter Pass” is the first step to landing your next job.