When it comes to professional social media sites, the first name that pops into your mind is most likely LinkedIn, and with good reason. The point of the site is to build and maintain a robust professional network, read industry news, and research companies. If you're using it to apply for jobs, as many people do, you're in luck: LinkedIn has a service called Easy Apply, which is designed to save you time and effort when navigating the sometimes complex world of company application processes. But what exactly is Easy Apply? Does it work? Is it effective?
We'll take a "deep dive" into LinkedIn's Easy Apply, so you can decide if it's a useful tool for your job hunt.
In this article, we’ll discuss:
- What does “Easy Apply” mean on LinkedIn?
- Is it okay to use LinkedIn’s Easy Apply?
- Do employers actually use LinkedIn?
- Do companies check LinkedIn Easy Apply?
- Is it better to apply with LinkedIn or a resume?
- How to use Easy Apply on LinkedIn
What does “Easy Apply” mean on LinkedIn?
Basically, Easy Apply allows you to apply for a myriad of jobs while staying on the LinkedIn site. If you have a LinkedIn profile and an uploaded resume, you can use this function to save time and increase efficiency, as you don’t have to go to each individual company’s website to learn about a job and apply for it.
When looking at job listings you'll see one of two buttons: "Apply" and "Easy Apply." They're not the same thing. The “Apply” button will send you to the company's website, where you can apply for the job by entering all the required information and attaching a cover letter and resume. With “Easy Apply”, you won't leave LinkedIn and you don't have to manually enter all the required information. LinkedIn pulls it directly from your profile. However, keep a few things in mind:
- You can’t customize your application for each job.
- You’re not able to mention if you were given a referral.
- Since it’s so easy, there will be a lot of people applying.
- You won't have an opportunity to explain your qualifications and why you're the top candidate.
What percentage of employers look at LinkedIn?
The answer? A lot. To be more specific, a study done by The Manifest showed that 67 percent of potential employers used LinkedIn to recruit new candidates, and the same percentage checked out a candidate's LinkedIn profile before extending a job offer.
Is it okay to use LinkedIn Easy Apply?
It is, but you need to be mindful of how you use it. Rather than using it to "mass apply" for jobs, you have to be a little more deliberate. Remember, a lot of people are going to take advantage of this function, so you run the risk of getting lost in the crowd. To increase your odds of getting noticed, it's important to take a few steps ahead of time. First, make sure your resume and profile are up-to-date, and second, make sure you've incorporated common keywords for your industry into both. And remember, Easy Apply is great if you don't have a lot of time to spend on your job applications, as it's basically "click and go."
When should you not to use Easy Apply?
Consider avoiding Easy Apply if any of the following situations apply to you:
- Your LinkedIn profile is a little “thin” or your resume doesn’t include keywords
- Your resume is poorly formatted or organized
- You don’t have an effective LinkedIn headline
- The application requires a cover letter (it’s easy to forget to attach one)
Why do LinkedIn jobs have so many applicants?
Because it’s easy to apply. When you only have to click the “Easy Apply” button to throw your proverbial hat in the ring, a lot of people are going to take advantage of that. But don’t be discouraged—the number of applicants you’re seeing may not actually be that high. It’s estimated that between 20-25 percent who hit that button never actually finish their application, and a large number of applicants (around 75 percent) aren't qualified for the position.
Do employers actually use LinkedIn?
Yes, they do. In fact, 30 percent of LinkedIn subscribers are recruiters, and, according to their website, six people are hired on LinkedIn every minute, and 77 percent of recruiters use LinkedIn to find candidates. That’s a lot of activity! LinkedIn is a good way to be found by recruiters and show them your qualifications as a candidate, via endorsements, videos you've posted, or articles you've written.
It's not the be-all and end-all of job hunting, though. There are a small number of companies that don't use LinkedIn to post their jobs (although 98% of Fortune 500 companies do), and there is a growing number of scammers who post “fake jobs” on the site. Also, if you aren’t seeking a “white color” job or are at the entry level in your career, it might not be as effective for you. While most recruiters do use LinkedIn, they may only use it as a verification tool or to investigate a potential candidate a bit more in-depth before offering an interview.
Do companies use LinkedIn Easy Apply?
Yes, and the Easy Apply option gives them more options, as potential candidates may be more likely to apply if they find the process less cumbersome than going to the company's website. Recruiters also receive a notification when you've applied to an open position (although that's no guarantee they'll respond).
There is a downside to using Easy Apply, though. Because it’s so easy, recruiters are often overwhelmed with a large number of applications for an open position, and that makes it harder for them to spot the top candidates. Using Easy Apply may also not leave a lasting impression on employers, as the lack of personalization and follow-up with applications may cause them to be ignored. It's very easy to just hit "apply" and forget about it. Companies know this, so there's a greater chance of your application and resume falling into the internet's "black hole" for job hunters.
You’re more likely to get jobs from casual acquaintances in your professional network than friends or family. According to a study of 20 million people based on a 1973 paper, forging “weak ties” is an effective way to get a job, with the most effective results happening between two people who shared approximately 10 acquaintances on LinkedIn. The bottom line? Don’t forget to network!
How to use Easy Apply on LinkedIn in 7 easy steps
If you've decided that the Easy Apply option is right for you, here's how to use it effectively to apply for jobs. Remember, not all postings will use this option, so keep your eyes open. Here’s how to use Easy Apply in seven easy steps:
- Search for a job using the search bar at the top of the page.
- Once you have a list of results, look for the postings that have the Easy Apply label.
- Select the job you’re interested in applying for, and click on the Easy Apply button.
- Follow the prompts that pop up on your screen. Much of your information is pre-filled, but fill in any missing details.
- Upload your resume (and cover letter, if required).
- Complete any final screening questions.
- Hit “submit application.” That’s it!
Once you’ve applied, recruiters will get an overview of your LinkedIn profile, such as your profile picture, your headline, your education, and your list of skills. You can pre-attach your resume to your profile, but it’s probably better to avoid this so that you can tailor your resume for the position you're applying for.
If you need help crafting the perfect resume, check out Resume.io’s Resume Templates to help you get the job you want—faster.
Key Takeaways
Not to be confused with the “Apply” button, LinkedIn’s “Easy Apply" allows you to apply for a myriad of jobs while staying on the LinkedIn site. It’s convenient, especially if you don’t have a lot of time to spend on your job applications, as it’s basically “click and go.” 30 percent of LinkedIn subscribers are recruiters, and they tend to get a large volume of applications via the Easy Apply function.
When applying through LinkedIn, make sure that all of your materials are up to date and reflect your experience and skills, and always follow up with the recruiter or hiring manager when possible.
