There are a few potential reasons why a LinkedIn job posting may stop accepting applications before the stated deadline:
The role has been filled
The most common reason a LinkedIn job ad stops accepting applications is that the role has been filled and the company has found the right candidate. LinkedIn job postings are set to automatically close once the hiring manager marks the position as filled in the company’s applicant tracking system. This instantly changes the apply button to “closed” on the LinkedIn listing.
Companies want to avoid continuing to collect applicants after they have filled the role. If applications continue coming in after the role is filled, it creates unnecessary administrative work for recruiters and hiring managers to sort through and respond to candidates who no longer have a shot at that particular position.
Closing the job posting is an efficient way for companies to immediately stop the application flow once they have found the hire they want. It also helps prevent disappointment for job seekers by not allowing them to spend time applying for roles that are already off the market.
The company has halted the hiring process
Another reason a LinkedIn job ad may stop accepting applications is if the company has decided to halt or pause the hiring process for that role. This can happen for several reasons:
- The hiring needs have changed due to shifts in project timelines or company priorities.
- The budget for the role has been cut.
- The team is going through restructuring.
- The hiring manager left the company.
- The company implemented a hiring freeze.
When business needs change, companies may decide to stop actively looking to fill a position that was previously posted. This usually happens when the urgency to fill the role diminishes or budget gets tight.
Rather than take down the job ad entirely, companies will often just pause applications while they re-evaluate their hiring plans. This leaves the door open to potentially restarting the process later on if circumstances change.
The job description is being updated
A LinkedIn job posting may also stop accepting applications if the company is updating the job description and qualifications for the role.
As a position goes through the interview stage, the hiring manager may gain new insights on the skills, experience and attributes they want in the ideal candidate. Updating the job description allows them to refine their requirements and better convey what they are looking for.
Companies will put the job listing on hold while edits are being made to ensure applicants are seeing the most accurate and up-to-date information. Once the job description revisions are complete, they will reactivate the ability for candidates to apply.
The job ad is expiring or being reposted
LinkedIn job ads are typically posted for a set duration, such as 30 days. Once that listing period expires, the apply button will automatically switch off.
If the company has not found the right hire yet, they may decide to repost the same job listing for another cycle. This essentially resets the clock and opens the job up to a new crop of applicants.
The new job listing will look identical other than having a different expiration date. Candidates who have already applied will need to apply again on the refreshed listing if they want to be considered.
Too many applicants
For very popular roles, some companies may be overwhelmed by the volume of applicants. If they receive an unmanageable number of applicants in a short period, they may pause or close down applications even before the original deadline.
Companies want to maintain a positive candidate experience. If they have more applicants than they have resources to reasonably evaluate, this can lead to very prolonged hiring timelines. By pressing pause, they can review the existing applicants before deciding if they want to reopen applications later on.
System or technical error
In some cases, a job posting may incorrectly or prematurely show as “closed for applications” due to a technical glitch or system error.
If this happens, it’s usually a temporary issue on LinkedIn’s side and applications will reopen once the problem is fixed. If a job seeker encounters this, it’s worth checking back on the listing shortly after to see if applying is possible again.
The company is restricting applicants
While less common, some companies may decide to manually limit applicants for certain roles only to people who are “inMail” connected on LinkedIn. This means only candidates who are networked directly to employees at that company can submit their application.
Companies may do this to narrow down applicants to referrals, existing contacts, or LinkedIn members who fit a specific profile. If this is the case, the job description will specify that applicants must be connected to company employees via LinkedIn’s internal messaging system.
Conclusion
When a LinkedIn job posting stops accepting applications, it typically signals the company has filled the role, paused hiring, is updating the listing, or the application deadline has expired. In most cases, it indicates the position is no longer actively open even if the end date hasn’t passed yet.
Job seekers should periodically check their saved or applied positions for changes in application status. If a desired job closes sooner than expected, it’s best to move on and pursue other opportunities rather than wait for it to potentially reopen later.
Reason | Description |
---|---|
Role has been filled | Company found right candidate and closed listing to halt more applicants |
Hiring process halted | Company priorities or budget changed so paused hiring temporarily |
Job description update | Company refreshing job qualifications before accepting new applicants |
Listing expired | Standard application deadline passed until job gets reposted |
Too many applicants | Volume overwhelming so company paused to review existing pool |
Technical error | Glitch or system issue incorrectly showing closed status |
Limiting applicants | Only accepting referrals or contacts connected via LinkedIn |
When a LinkedIn job closes sooner than expected, continue looking for other available opportunities that align with your experience and interests. With persistence and a proactive approach, you can find the right role even if a particular application window closes.
Stay motivated in your search and keep networking, customizing your resume, and showing initiative to stand out from the applicant crowd. The right fit for your next career move is out there, you just have to be diligent in putting yourself out there as an appealing candidate.
4 Tips for Job Seekers When a LinkedIn Posting Closes
Here are 4 tips for job seekers if they encounter a desired LinkedIn job listing that is no longer accepting applications:
1. Check if the role gets reposted
Often the same job will get posted again after the initial listing expires. Make sure to look out for newly listed openings to see if it’s the same role coming back up.
2. Expand your search criteria
Don’t fixate on that one posting. Widen your search for similar roles with other companies that fit what you’re looking for.
3. Ask for referrals
Tap your network and see if anyone can refer you internally to increase your chances of getting considered.
4. Follow up if you applied
If you already submitted an application before the listing closed, follow up to reiterate your interest in the company and skillset.
Persistence is key – continue taking proactive steps to put yourself out there until you land the right opportunity. With an expanded search, networking and proper follow up, you can overcome setbacks like a closed job ad.
FAQs
Can you still get a job if the LinkedIn posting is closed?
It is unlikely you can still get the job if the LinkedIn posting is marked as closed for applications. This usually signals the company has filled the role or paused hiring. However, it may get reposted in the future so you can look out for that. You can also try networking your way in if you have connections at the company.
Should I reach out if I already applied to a closed job posting?
It’s reasonable to send a follow up note if you applied before the listing was closed, reiterating your fit and interest in the role. But don’t expect a response. The company is likely not considering new candidates at the moment.
How long do I wait for a closed job to reopen?
Don’t wait too long, maybe check back within 1-2 weeks to see if it gets reposted. But keep actively applying to other roles in the meantime. Solid opportunities you’re qualified for won’t stay on the market for long.
Can I find out why the job closed from the company?
Most companies will not disclose specifically why they closed a particular listing. Knowing the status of their hiring process is proprietary information. You’re better off focusing your energy on new openings and following up if you already applied.
Should I connect with the company’s recruiters if a job closes?
It can be worthwhile connecting with recruiters or employees at companies you want to work for to express interest in future openings. Networking and relationship building is always a smart long-term strategy.
In summary, remain persistent if a desired LinkedIn job posting closes before you can apply. Widen your search, tap your network and keep taking steps to put yourself in front of the right people. With resilience and proactive effort, you can find the best fit opportunity.
Table: Reasons LinkedIn Job Listings Close Early
Reason | Description |
---|---|
Role filled | Company hired someone and closed listing to stop more applicants |
Hiring halted | Company priorities or budget changed so paused hiring |
Job description update | Company revising qualifications before new applicants |
Listing expired | Standard application deadline passed |
Too many applicants | Volume overwhelming so company paused to review |
Technical issues | Glitch incorrectly showing closed status |
Limiting applicants | Only accepting referrals or direct contacts |
This table summarizes the main reasons a LinkedIn job posting may stop accepting applications earlier than its listed deadline. The most common causes are the role being filled, company halting hiring, job description changes, and listing expiration. Understanding why this happens can help guide job seekers’ approach if a desired job closes unexpectedly.
Strategies to Get Hired After a Job Posting Closes
Here are 5 proactive strategies and tips job seekers can use if a LinkedIn job listing they want to apply to closes early:
- Check if the role gets reposted later and apply to the new listing.
- Expand your job search criteria to find similar openings at other companies.
- Ask contacts to refer you or facilitate an internal introduction.
- Follow up if you already applied to restate your interest and qualifications.
- Connect with and build relationships with the company’s recruiters.
Don’t get discouraged if a job closes before you can apply. Stay motivated and keep networking, customizing your resume, and taking steps to put yourself in front of the right people. With skill and persistence, you can overcome setbacks and find the best opportunities.
The key is being proactive, expanding your search, and utilizing your connections. Even if one LinkedIn job expires, there are always new openings to pursue if you are diligent and resilient in your approach.
Maintaining Motivation When Jobs Close Quickly
It can be frustrating when desirable job postings close quickly before you get a chance to apply. Here are some tips to maintain motivation:
- Remember it’s a numbers game – don’t get hung up on any one listing.
- Focus on postings with longer time horizons to apply.
- Set up alerts so you see new openings quickly.
- Leverage your network for inside opportunities.
- Work on your resume and skills to be ready to apply fast.
- Practice interviewing to gain confidence for when you get an interview.
- Trust that persistence will pay off eventually.
Staying positive when job hunting can be challenging. But focusing energy on productive activities and having faith your efforts will lead to the right role in time are important. With strategic planning and execution, you can achieve your career goals despite temporary setbacks along the way.
Conclusion
LinkedIn job postings that close early are usually an indication the company has filled the role, paused hiring, updated the listing, or reached the application deadline. This generally signals the position is no longer open even if the end date is not yet reached.
Job seekers who encounter a closed listing should continue their search rather than wait for it to reopen. Widen criteria, get referrals, network, and follow up if already applied. With motivation and persistence, you can find the right opportunities despite minor obstacles.