LinkedIn’s quick apply feature allows job seekers to easily submit their profile and resume to apply for jobs on the platform. But does quick apply actually help candidates get hired? There are pros and cons to using LinkedIn’s quick apply versus manually applying for jobs.
What is LinkedIn Quick Apply?
LinkedIn quick apply allows you to submit your profile and resume to apply for jobs with just a few clicks. When you find a job you want to apply for, you simply click the “Easy Apply” button on the job posting. This submits your existing LinkedIn profile as your resume/CV. You can also upload your resume if you choose. It only takes a few seconds to quick apply to a job via LinkedIn.
Pros of Using LinkedIn Quick Apply
There are some potential advantages to using LinkedIn’s quick apply feature:
- It’s fast and easy – You can apply to many more jobs in less time with just a click of a button.
- Leverages your LinkedIn profile – Your professional LinkedIn profile acts as your resume, so you don’t need to customize materials for each application.
- Applies for you automatically – LinkedIn will remember jobs you’ve applied to and will auto-apply if the job is reposted.
- Easy way to apply on mobile – You can quickly apply to jobs while scrolling LinkedIn on your phone.
The simplicity and speed of quick apply makes it easy to submit your information to more job openings in less time. You can carpet bomb your profile and resume to hundreds of jobs with minimal effort. This increases the chance that one of your applications catches a recruiter’s eye.
Cons of LinkedIn Quick Apply
However, there are also some downsides to relying solely on LinkedIn quick apply:
- Limited customization – Your LinkedIn profile may not be tailored for each individual job you are applying to.
- Emphasis on quantity over quality – Focusing only on easy applications can mean you apply to less suitable roles.
- Fewer details provided – You don’t have the opportunity to customize a cover letter or provide context.
- Overreliance on LinkedIn profile – If your profile lacks key details, your application may be incomplete.
- Stiff competition – Easy apply means more candidates, making it harder to stand out.
While quick apply is simple, it does not allow you to customize your application materials for each job. This can lead to a lower quality application that fails to highlight your top strengths and qualifications. There is also more competition when applying to listings with an Easy Apply button.
Does Quick Apply Actually Work?
Whether quick apply helps candidates find jobs depends on several factors:
- Your industry – Quick apply may work better for some fields than others. Tech companies frequently use LinkedIn to source candidates.
- Job level – Entry-level and mid-level openings get more LinkedIn responses than senior roles.
- Your LinkedIn profile – A complete, detailed profile is essential for quick apply to work.
- Customization – Tailoring your profile/resume for each application boosts your chances.
- Follow up – Following up after quick applying greatly improves your odds of getting an interview.
Here are some statistics on LinkedIn quick apply effectiveness:
Data | Statistics |
---|---|
LinkedIn quick apply success rate | Estimates range from 1-10% for individual applications leading to interviews or jobs. |
Applicants using quick apply to find a job | Around 40% of job seekers use quick apply as part of their search process. |
Hiring managers using LinkedIn to source talent | 97% of hiring managers use LinkedIn to recruit candidates. |
Applicants who customize LinkedIn profiles | 79% of candidates tweak their LinkedIn profiles for job applications. |
While quick apply can be effective, tailored applications and follow up are key to success. On its own, quick apply is unlikely to lead to many interviews. But as part of an overall search strategy, it can help.
Tips to Make LinkedIn Quick Apply More Effective
Here are some tips to get better results from LinkedIn quick apply:
Craft a Strong Profile
Your LinkedIn profile serves as your resume and first impression during quick apply. Make sure it includes your full work history, key skills, achievements, and qualifications. Showcase the experience that is most relevant to the jobs you are targeting.
Customize Where Possible
While you can’t customize cover letters during quick apply, optimize your profile summary for each role by highlighting related experience. Also customize your LinkedIn headline for different positions.
Follow Up After Applying
Don’t just depend on quick apply and wait. Follow up with recruiters through LinkedIn messages and emails. Try connecting with the hiring manager. Quick apply puts your foot in the door – follow up to get through it.
Use LinkedIn Search Tools
Leverage LinkedIn’s job search filters to find openings that align with your background. Search by title, company, location, date posted and more to pinpoint suitable roles. Apply to jobs where you’re a good fit.
Watch for Views and Follows
See if hiring managers view your profile or follow you after applying. This signals interest. Connect with these contacts and reiterate your interest in the role and credentials.
Conclusion
Does quick apply work? It can be effective, but only as part of a larger job search process. Quick apply is meant for volume and visibility. To get results, customize your profile, follow up manually, and use LinkedIn’s search tools.
Quick apply is easy and fast, allowing you to submit your information to many openings quickly. But on its own, it is unlikely to land interviews. Tailor your profile, follow up one-on-one, and use LinkedIn strategically to boost your odds of success.
With a complete profile, targeted search process, and proactive follow up, quick apply can expand your reach and visibility. But customize your approach as much as possible to stand out from the competition.
Quick apply makes applying for jobs simpler. But the key is using it as one piece of an integrated job search plan. Combined with other best practices, quick apply can be a launching point to connect with recruiters and hiring managers.
In today’s job market, applying for openings has never been easier thanks to tools like LinkedIn quick apply. But getting interviews and job offers still requires a targeted, proactive approach. Use quick apply to find opportunities and get your foot in the door. Then make the most of those chances with customized applications and assertive follow up.
Quick apply alone is typically not enough to land a job. But as part of a comprehensive search process, it can expand your reach and exposure to new openings. So use quick apply to cover the basics, then put in the extra work needed to convert those applications into interviews and ultimately a job offer. With a smart strategy, quick apply can speed up and streamline your path to your next position.