With over 810 million members worldwide, LinkedIn has become the go-to platform for professionals looking to network and search for jobs. One of LinkedIn’s most popular features is Easy Apply, which allows job seekers to quickly submit their profile and resume to apply for positions with just a few clicks. But does this simplified application process actually help candidates land interviews and get hired? Let’s take a closer look at whether LinkedIn Easy Apply really works.
What is LinkedIn Easy Apply?
LinkedIn Easy Apply allows members to apply for jobs directly through LinkedIn with a simplified application process. Instead of navigating to a company’s career site, filling out lengthy application forms, and manually uploading your resume, Easy Apply lets you apply by clicking the “Easy Apply” button on a job posting. This prompts you to submit your existing LinkedIn profile information and resume to instantly apply for the role.
Here’s a step-by-step look at how Easy Apply works:
- Browse job listings and look for positions with the “Easy Apply” button.
- Click the Easy Apply button on a job you’re interested in.
- Check your information – LinkedIn automatically pulls your profile and resume.
- Click submit. LinkedIn will send your profile and resume directly to the employer.
The Easy Apply button is intended to reduce friction in the job search and application process. Instead of needing to create new accounts and applications for each employer, LinkedIn Easy Apply lets you quickly submit your information with one click.
The Pros of Using Easy Apply
There are several potential advantages to using LinkedIn’s Easy Apply feature when job searching:
- It’s fast and easy – With just a single click, you can submit your application on LinkedIn. This is much faster than completing lengthy applications for each employer.
- Works directly within LinkedIn – Everything happens within the LinkedIn platform, so you can search jobs and apply quickly without navigating away.
- Leverages your LinkedIn profile – Your up-to-date LinkedIn profile with all your experience, education, skills, and recommendations can be sent directly to employers.
- Large reach – With LinkedIn’s huge member base, Easy Apply gives you access to apply for roles at a high volume of companies.
- One-click submission – You don’t have to re-enter your information or reformat your resume for every application. Just click apply.
In summary, the ease, speed, and reach of Easy Apply makes submitting job applications simpler and less time consuming for candidates.
The Cons of Using Easy Apply
However, there are some downsides and limitations to consider as well:
- Low success rate – With one click applications, it’s very easy to blanket apply to jobs without customizing your materials. This can lead to a lower success rate in hearing back from employers.
- No customization – Your LinkedIn profile and resume are automatically pulled with no ability to customize your application for each role.
- Emphasis on LinkedIn profile – Your LinkedIn presence and profile become even more important. A poorly optimized profile can hurt your chances.
- Possible duplicate applications – Applying to a job you already applied for through another site will duplicate your application and may frustrate recruiters.
- Can apply too broadly – Easy Apply makes it tempting to click “apply” on many jobs without considering fit. This can be inefficient.
While fast and simple, Easy Apply also means you have less control over customizing and targeting your application materials for each employer. This can lower your chances versus a tailored application.
Tips to Improve Your Easy Apply Success Rate
If you do use LinkedIn Easy Apply, here are some tips to help improve your success rate:
- only apply to jobs that are a strong match for your experience and qualifications. Avoid applying too broadly.
- Make sure your LinkedIn profile is complete and optimized with keywords. Highlight relevant skills, achievements, and certifications.
- Use a customized resume summary that aligns with the job description and required skills.
- Personalize your application with a targeted cover letter summarizing your fit.
- Follow up after applying by finding and contacting recruiters linked to the role.
- Track jobs applied for and follow up if you don’t hear back after 1-2 weeks.
Taking these steps can help boost your chances despite using the Easy Apply one-click system. The key is being selective, having an optimized LinkedIn presence, and following up.
Easy Apply Job Search Best Practices
Here are some best practices when using LinkedIn Easy Apply:
- Set alerts – Get notifications when new jobs match your search criteria and quickly apply.
- Use filters – Refine your search criteria, location, date posted etc. to prioritize relevant new listings.
- Look for “Easy Apply” – Focus on roles that use this and avoid manual applications.
- Apply to “Potential Matches” – Check your potential job matches on LinkedIn and apply.
- Follow companies – Follow relevant employers to see when they post new openings.
- Customize your resume – Tailor your profile summary, skills, and experience for each role.
- Use keywords – Incorporate keywords from the job description throughout your profile and resume.
Using these tips can help streamline your job search and increase your chances of hearing back on roles applied to through Easy Apply.
Does Easy Apply Really Work? The Verdict
Here is a summary of the key pros and cons of LinkedIn Easy Apply:
Pros | Cons |
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Overall, while Easy Apply makes submitting applications much simpler, it does not necessarily translate into a higher success rate in hearing back from employers or getting interviews.
The key is being selective in using Easy Apply and following up with further customization and outreach after applying. With a strong LinkedIn presence and strategic follow up, Easy Apply can expand your reach and get your foot in the door more easily.
But on its own, just clicking “Easy Apply” is typically not enough to stand out from the crowd. Combining Easy Apply with customization and networking can improve your chances of landing that next great job.
Final Tips for Easy Apply Success
- Only apply to closely matched jobs
- Optimize your LinkedIn profile
- Customize your resume summary for each role
- Follow up with recruiters after applying
- Track your applications and continue networking
Conclusion
LinkedIn Easy Apply provides a fast and simple way to submit a high volume of job applications with minimal effort. While the ease of use is a major benefit, Easy Apply alone is typically not enough to land interviews and job offers.
To improve your chances, use Easy Apply selectively, customize your application materials, follow up with recruiters, and continue expanding your network. With the right strategy, Easy Apply can be a useful tool but should be just one piece of an effective job search process.