Comment by tstrimple

Exactly what I was thinking. Most competent people should just need a way past the ATS filtering bullshit. You have zero ideas what you're being excluded on when you apply through a public application portal. For all you know, the automated system didn't like the font you chose for your resume. There is zero visibility into it and why you're not moving to next rounds. With a foot in the door introduction, you're at least past the thing filtering out 95%+ applicants and can have a better opportunity to actually demonstrate strengths and skills. Most people don't get that much.