How Many Employers in Denver Use ATS?

Denver is a growing economic center that draws talent from all around the country. The employment market here is dynamic and competitive, with a thriving mix of technology startups, established firms, and expanding industries. As a Mile High City job seeker, you've probably come across the Applicant Tracking System, or ATS, which is a well-known but frequently annoying gatekeeper.
However, how many firms in Denver employ ATS? Job seekers are understandably concerned about whether their carefully written resume will ever be seen by a person. It is essential to comprehend the widespread adoption of ATS, especially in a cutthroat market like Denver, in order to maximize your job search plan, even if it is difficult to obtain an exact, real-time figure. This article will give you the tools you need to not only overcome these systems but also stand out by unveiling the prevalence of ATS in Denver and explaining why it's important.
The ATS Landscape: The Reasons Denver Businesses (and the Majority of Others) Use This Technology
We must first comprehend the "why" in order to answer "how many employers in Denver use ATS." ATS is essential for efficiency, particularly for businesses that process a large number of applications. These systems use keywords, credentials, and formatting to automatically filter applicants during the first screening procedure. Recruiters can concentrate on a smaller, more qualified pool of individuals since this saves them hours upon hours.
Major Trends & Projections:
-
Widespread Acceptance: Industry studies regularly demonstrate that the vast majority of medium- to big businesses—often 70–80% or more—use an ATS. This ratio is closer to 98% for Fortune 500 firms.
-
The Rise in ATS Use in Denver: The number of job applications naturally rises as Denver's economy grows and draws more businesses. This is closely associated with a greater chance of ATS implementation in a variety of industries, including retail, finance, healthcare, and technology. To handle this influx, businesses require scalable solutions.
-
Involvement of SMEs: Even Denver's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly using simpler ATS or hiring software with ATS capabilities, despite the fact that it has historically been more common in larger businesses. The desire to improve hiring and affordable cloud-based solutions are driving this trend.
What does this signify for those looking for jobs in Denver? This means that you should presume your application will first go through an ATS for the majority of professional jobs, particularly those in well-established organizations or those with formal recruiting procedures. This is not a barrier to entry; it is an essential first obstacle to learn and conquer.
What is an ATS, and why is it important to your Denver job hunt?
The hiring and recruiting process is managed by a software program called an Applicant Tracking System. Consider it a digital database and filter. Submitting your resume and cover letter online does not always result in a direct connection with a human recruiter. The ATS, however, parses them, scores your application according to standards set by the company, and extracts data.
The reason why it's important:
-
Keyword Matching: An ATS system is made to recognize particular keywords in your resume that match the job description. Regardless of your qualifications, your resume may be automatically rejected if it lacks sufficient pertinent keywords.
-
Formatting Sensitivity: ATS may be confused by sophisticated layouts, graphics, odd fonts, and particular file formats (such PDFs with image-based text), which may result in garbled data or missing sections.
-
ATS systems are logical and data-driven: They prioritize efficiency above emotion. They fail to grasp the "story" of your career, as well as subtleties and personal branding. They are searching for exact matches.
Typical Issues for Denver Job Seekers Using ATS
Using the ATS might seem like playing a game with rules you don't know. The following are some common pitfalls:
-
Key phrases that are absent: Applying for the position of "Senior Marketing Manager" without using those precise terms (or similar synonyms) in your curriculum vitae.
-
Unnecessary Experience: Adding too much irrelevant experience that confuses your resume and weakens the impact of your relevant talents.
-
Extravagant Formatting: Employing elaborate designs that are aesthetically pleasing to the human eye but cannot be read by the ATS.
-
Generic Applications: Sending the same curriculum vitae for every position without making any effort to customize it to the particular needs of each business and role.
-
Lack of Quantification: Failing to quantify accomplishments using figures or measures that ATS can often identify and rank.
Ways to Get Interviews in Denver and Overcome the ATS
Thankfully, the ATS test can be learned. The following is how Denver job candidates can improve their applications:
1. Tailor Your Resume for Every Application
This is not up for discussion. Take a close look at each job description. Determine essential talents, responsibilities, and prerequisites. Use these precise terms in your resume, but only if they are accurate and applicable.
2. Strategic Keyword Integration
Avoid keyword stuffing. Include them organically into your summary statement, skill section, and experience description. Use synonyms when it's appropriate, but give the precise words from the job description preference.
3. Choose straightforward, tidy formatting
-
Use common, professional fonts such Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.
-
Use common headings like "Experience," "Education," and "Skills."
-
Use precise bullet points for accomplishments.
-
Refrain from Using Tables and Graphics: Keep elaborate design elements to a minimum.
4. File Type
A basic .docx file can sometimes be safer than a PDF, especially if you're not sure how advanced the ATS system is, even though contemporary ATS systems are generally capable of reading PDFs.
5. Use an "ATS-Friendly" Template
Templates made specifically for ATS to parse readily are available from a number of online resources. Look for layouts that are simple and arranged chronologically.
6. Carefully Proofread
ATS can easily identify grammatical mistakes and typos, which detract from your credibility.
7. Quantify Your accomplishments
Use metrics, percentages, and figures to illustrate impact. Compared to "Responsible for sales growth," "Increased sales by 15%" is a much more potent statement.
8. Make Your LinkedIn Profile Match
Make sure your LinkedIn profile closely resembles your resume. Recruiters frequently check and cross-reference information, and trust is built through consistency.
Your Ally in the ATS Battle and Beyond: Introducing ApplyTrackr
You need to be diligent, organized, and strategic in order to successfully navigate the ATS environment in Denver and elsewhere. Right here is where ApplyTrackr turns out to be your crucial ally.
By: ApplyingTrackr aims to give job candidates more power by:
-
Centralized Application Management: Keep a record of each job application, including the company, the date, and the application's status. No more missed deadlines or disorganized spreadsheets.
-
Advice on optimizing your application tracking system (ATS): Our system assists you in locating important keywords in job descriptions and provides advice on how to properly include them in your CV, making sure that your application passes the first screening.
-
Customized Insights: Learn which programs are moving forward, allowing you to concentrate your efforts and fine-tune your plan where it counts.
-
Tailorable Workflows: Maintain a structured and proactive approach to your job search in Denver by scheduling reminders for interviews, follow-ups, and networking events.
-
Developing Self-Assurance: ApplyTrackr helps you manage your job search strategically with a thorough understanding of what it takes to succeed in the current competitive market, rather than merely submitting applications.
The ATS shouldn't be a black box. With ApplyTrackr, you have the transparency and resources necessary to improve your applications and boost your chances of getting that sought-after Denver interview.
The Denver Job Market: A Cutthroat Environment Where Every Advantage Matters
Although Denver has great prospects, its popularity also leads to stiff competition. Every advantage you may get during the application process is important. You're not simply hoping your resume gets past ATS; you're actively making sure it does by knowing ATS, customizing your applications, and utilizing tools like ApplyTrackr.
Put money into the success of your job hunt. Use ApplyTrackr to gain the structure and insights necessary to approach your next career prospect in Denver with confidence; understand the technology and implement the strategies.
Conclusion: Master the ATS to Master Your Job Search
The question of "how many employers in Denver use ATS" yields the obvious response that a large and increasing number of companies utilize it across almost all sectors. Successful job seekers comprehend that ATS is a fundamental aspect of contemporary recruitment, rather than seeing it as an insurmountable barrier. You show your qualifications and understanding of the digital recruitment environment by using a people-first, ATS-intelligent strategy when applying.
Let ApplyTrackr be the impetus for your success in Denver's dynamic labor market by embracing these approaches and maintaining your organization. Let's help you get past the gatekeepers and into the interview chamber; your ideal position is waiting for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is an applicant tracking system (ATS)?
A1: An Applicant Tracking System (ATS) is a program that facilitates the recruitment and hiring process. It aids organizations in handling a large number of applications by gathering, categorizing, and rating resumes according to keywords and standards established by the company, even before a human recruiter sees them.
Q2: In Denver, how many businesses often utilize ATS?
A2: Although it's difficult to get precise real-time data, industry numbers indicate that 70–80% of medium- to large-sized businesses worldwide use ATS, with about 98% of Fortune 500 companies using them. Because of Denver's robust and competitive job market, it is reasonable to expect a comparable or even higher frequency across all industries among businesses that are actively recruiting there. Many small to medium-sized firms are now implementing streamlined ATS solutions.
Q3: Is it possible for an ATS to truly reject my resume without human intervention?
A3: Yes, without a doubt. An ATS can automatically filter out your resume before it ever gets to a recruiter's desk if it lacks key terms from the job description, uses an unreadable format, or is missing essential details. The reason ATS optimization is so important is because of this.
Q4: Is it preferable to send a Word file (.docx) or a PDF to an ATS?
A4: Although several contemporary ATS can parse PDFs well, a basic .docx file is typically seen to be the safest option. When PDFs are image-heavy, include complicated graphics, or use unusual fonts that the ATS has trouble reading, parsing difficulties might occur. If you're unsure, it's often best to use a simple, text-based .docx file.
Q5: How can I determine if a particular Denver firm uses an ATS?
A5: Unless the firm clearly specifies, it's frequently hard to determine for sure. However, if the online portal requires you to copy your resume or complete lengthy forms, it's a clear sign that they're employing an ATS. It's best practice to presume an ATS is used in any professional position in Denver and tailor your application accordingly.
Q6: Can ApplyTrackr help me get through the ATS?
A6: Yes! With the help of ApplyTrackr, you may manage your job search and learn the essential components necessary for ATS success. Although it doesn't create your resume for you, it does assist you in managing your application iterations, monitoring keywords, analyzing job descriptions, and maintaining organization—all of which are essential for writing an ATS-friendly cover letter and resume.
Q7: Should I just "keyword stuff" my resume in order to get through ATS?
A7: No, keyword stuffing is a bad approach. Keywords are crucial, but using them too frequently in an unnatural way might make your resume unreadable to people and could even be noticed by more advanced ATS systems. Concentrate on incorporating keywords organically and honestly into the context of your knowledge and abilities. No matter how many there are, quality and relevance are always prioritized.
Q8: What is the greatest error Denver job seekers make while using ATS?
A8: The worst error is submitting the same resume for every position. Every application should be customized to the job description, include pertinent keywords, and highlight how your skills and expertise fit the position's responsibilities. An ATS is seldom defeated by a resume that claims to be "one-size-fits-all."
Found this helpful? Share with others looking to improve their job search.


