Job hunting can often feel like an uphill battle, especially when efforts seem to go unnoticed. A recent experience shared by Career and LinkedIn coach Keith Lu highlights just how tough the process can be: after applying to 240 jobs on LinkedIn, his friend’s applications were largely ignored, with 218 going unseen by recruiters and 80% of the remaining 22 receiving automatic rejections within minutes. This frustration is not uncommon, as LinkedIn data shows that 41% of job seekers have been "ghosted" during their job search, while 77% of respondents in a 2021 Indeed survey shared that they have faced similar rejection.
On the other hand, recruiters are bombarded with resumes, leading to a disconnect between candidates' approaches to job applications and what employers truly want. With this overwhelming competition, it's important to bridge the gap with a more strategic approach to job searching.
Nirajita Banerjee, Senior Managing Editor at LinkedIn India, provides four key strategies to help job seekers stand out and enhance their chances:
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Set Up Job Alerts: The job market is fast-moving, and being among the first to apply can make all the difference. Setting up LinkedIn job alerts ensures that you are notified as soon as new opportunities arise. Applying within the first 10 minutes of a job posting can increase your chances of receiving a callback by up to 4%.
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Activate the 'Open to Work' Badge: This simple step can double your chances of being contacted by recruiters. By turning on the 'Open to Work' badge on your LinkedIn profile, you signal to potential employers that you are actively looking for new opportunities.
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Highlight Relevant Skills: Employers are looking for candidates whose skills match the job description. Make sure your LinkedIn profile clearly showcases the relevant skills and experiences that align with the roles you are targeting. A well-crafted profile makes it easier for recruiters to recognize your suitability for a job.
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Use LinkedIn’s Job Match Feature: This feature instantly compares your profile with job listings, giving you a clear understanding of how well your skills align with each posting. By focusing on roles that truly match your expertise, you can streamline your job search and avoid applying to positions that aren't the right fit.
Moreover, job seekers should be mindful of 'ghost jobs', which are listings for positions that might not be open or have already been filled. A 2024 report revealed that 40% of companies posted such listings, so it's essential to approach job postings with caution.
By implementing these strategies, job seekers can increase their visibility to recruiters and improve their chances of securing interviews, ultimately reducing the frustration of being ghosted. Staying proactive, keeping your profile up to date, and utilizing LinkedIn’s advanced job search features are all essential steps to navigating the competitive job market successfully.
