How to Find and Apply to LinkedIn Jobs
Looking for LinkedIn jobs can feel like throwing darts blindfolded—especially when you’re applying to one posting after another with little to no response. But if you’re tired of that rinse-and-repeat method, I have some strategies to help you make real connections, boost your visibility, and yes, actually improve your chances of hearing back. These tips aren’t your typical job-hunting advice. I’ll go beyond LinkedIn’s “Easy Apply” button and show you how to get strategic, step by step.
1. Use LinkedIn’s Easy Apply Button (But Don’t Rely on It Alone)
Let’s start with LinkedIn’s “Easy Apply” button. This feature is fantastic for speed: it lets you submit your application with one click, which is incredibly convenient. But here’s the catch—every other job seeker on LinkedIn probably loves it just as much as you do. This means your application can easily get lost in a sea of submissions.
So, yes, go ahead and use “Easy Apply” to keep things moving. But here’s my advice: don’t put all your eggs in this quick-apply basket. If you really want to stand out, use Easy Apply as a supplement rather than your only method. For those serious about landing LinkedIn jobs, the following steps will bring more focus and, hopefully, results.
2. Connect Directly With People at Your Target Company
Here’s where we get a little more hands-on. Imagine you find a job listing for, say, JP Morgan, and you’re ready to make your move. Don’t just apply and hope for the best—try connecting with people who work there first. LinkedIn has this awesome feature where you can search through a company’s employees by location or role. So narrow it down to a manageable number of people in positions similar to yours or within your target department.
After you’ve filtered through, pick a few people to connect with each day. Don’t spam; be thoughtful. Send a simple, genuine message—something like, “Hi [Name], I noticed you’re with [Company], and I’d love to connect and learn more about the team. I’m really interested in joining and thought I’d reach out.” Often, a personal touch goes a long way and might even lead to a referral. People in your target company can give you insights into roles you may not see advertised, giving you a head start in your search for LinkedIn jobs.
3. Visit Company Websites—They Often Have Exclusive Job Postings
I know, I know—everyone says to apply directly on LinkedIn, but here’s a little secret: many companies, especially larger ones, post more jobs on their own websites than they do on LinkedIn. So if you’re keen on working for a specific company, go straight to their careers page.
When you’re checking the site, look through all the job postings, as there might be different categories for various experience levels, from internships to senior positions. Big players like JP Morgan often have hundreds of roles listed on their site at any given time. You might even find exclusive openings that haven’t hit LinkedIn yet. And, let’s be honest, checking a few company sites doesn’t take that long, and it could uncover LinkedIn jobs you won’t see anywhere else.
4. Reach Out to Talent Acquisition Managers Posting LinkedIn Jobs
This strategy can feel a little bold, but trust me, it’s worth it. Here’s what you do: go to the LinkedIn search bar, type in “Talent Acquisition Manager,” and switch to the “People” tab. From there, narrow down the results by location and the companies you’re interested in. LinkedIn also lets you filter to show only profiles that indicate “actively hiring,” which can help refine your search.
Once you’ve zeroed in on a few talent acquisition managers, take a look at their recent activity. Some of them post about current openings or hiring initiatives, and you may find the very LinkedIn jobs you’re looking for. Don’t be afraid to reach out—send a polite, professional message introducing yourself and expressing your interest in their company. You’d be surprised at how many are open to chatting or even guiding you in your application process.
By following these steps, you’re doing way more than simply applying and hoping. You’re actively building connections, and you’re showing potential employers that you’re truly invested in finding LinkedIn jobs that align with your skills and passions.
Final Thoughts on Finding LinkedIn Jobs That Stick
The job search can feel daunting, but with LinkedIn’s resources and a few strategic moves, you can create a plan that doesn’t feel like you’re just shouting into the void. Remember, the best candidates don’t always have the most qualifications; they often have the best strategies. LinkedIn is packed with opportunities—you just have to know how to find them.