How to Track Application Sources in Workday

Why Tracking Source Matters More Than Ever

Modern ATS platforms like Workday offer powerful integration and automation features, including auto tracking via URL parameters and built-in dashboards. According to Workday support, you can append a tracking parameter to job URLs such as ?source=EuroEngineerJobs, which automatically assigns that recruiting source and even hides the “How did you hear about us?” field from applicants.

EuroEngineerJobs can add UTM source parameters to our own apply links, so you always know which channels drive your top candidates when they apply through our platform.

1. Define and Register Your Source Categories

Set up categories such as "EuroEngineerJobs", "Referral – Internal", "Agency", or "Email Campaign" in Workday.

Use the Maintain Recruiting Source task in Workday. Click + to create a new category and add sources.

2. Use Auto Tracking via URL Parameters

Tag your external job posting URLs with parameters like ?source=JobBoardX to automatically capture the source.

Applicants landing through these links will skip the “How did you hear about us?” question, keeping data clean and eliminating user friction.

Practitioners note that if auto tracking is enabled, Workday automatically detects the source reference ID embedded in the application URL. Ensure that URL and reference IDs align, as updates may require coordination.

3. Configure the External Career Site for Auto Tracking

Open Edit External Career Site in Workday.

In the Apply – Intro section, add your newly created sources to the Recruiting Sources for Auto Tracking box. For additional guidance and best practices, check EuroEngineerJobs.

This setup ensures that tagged URLs are recognized and captured automatically.

4. Train Your Team

Document source naming conventions internally. For example, always select "Referral – Internal" rather than plain "Referral".

Ensure recruiters and hiring managers understand how tagged URLs work and why accurate tagging is essential for reporting.

5. Validate Using Reporting Dashboards

In the Recruiting Dashboard, use “Candidates by Source” widgets to get a graphical breakdown of source performance.

Combine this with custom reporting to monitor metrics such as candidate volume, conversion rates, and quality by source.

6. Review and Refine Regularly

Regular reviews help keep your source strategy aligned with business needs and ensure your ATS remains efficient and relevant.

Final Tips

• Make it simple for applicants by removing redundant questions through auto tracking.
• EuroEngineerJobs ensures UTM tags can be applied, helping you avoid manual errors and keep source data clean.
• Use dashboards actively to gain insights into which channels deliver top-quality hires.
• Keep your ATS strategy up to date so you can leverage new features and integrations as they become available. Stay informed with EuroEngineerJobs.