4 Proven Methods to Apply for Jobs on LinkedIn Effectively
Kalaivani Ramprasad 
Discover 4 proven LinkedIn job application strategies to boost responses. Learn how to apply, connect, and network for better job search results.
Introduction: The Struggle of Job Applications
If you’ve been tirelessly applying for jobs on LinkedIn without hearing back, you’re not alone. Many job seekers submit dozens—sometimes even hundreds—of applications and never receive a response. It can feel frustrating, time-consuming, and demotivating.
Here’s the good news: the problem often isn’t your qualifications but the way you approach the application process. LinkedIn offers multiple methods to apply for jobs, but not all of them are equally effective. Some methods leave you lost in a sea of applications, while others can give you a direct advantage by helping you stand out.
In this blog, you’ll learn four proven strategies to apply for jobs on LinkedIn that go beyond simply clicking “Easy Apply.” We’ll break down:
- Why Easy Apply is convenient but limiting.
- How to connect with employees at your target company.
- The importance of checking a company’s official career page for hidden opportunities.
- How to reach out to talent acquisition managers to build meaningful connections.
By the end, you’ll have a clear LinkedIn job application strategy designed to improve your response rate and move you closer to your dream job.
Method 1: Using LinkedIn Easy Apply
One of the most common ways to apply for jobs on LinkedIn is through the Easy Apply button. This method allows you to quickly send your profile and resume to recruiters with just a few clicks. It’s straightforward, time-efficient, and can be completed in seconds.
However, while Easy Apply saves time, it comes with limitations. Because this feature is so popular, recruiters often receive hundreds—if not thousands—of applications for a single role. This high volume makes it difficult for your application to stand out.
That doesn’t mean you should ignore Easy Apply altogether. Instead, treat it as one tool in your toolkit. If you choose this method, make sure your LinkedIn profile is optimized with a professional headline, a keyword-rich summary, and measurable accomplishments in your experience section. A polished profile increases the chances of catching a recruiter’s attention, even when competing with many candidates.
Still, if you truly want to maximize your chances, you’ll need to go beyond Easy Apply—which brings us to the next method.
Method 2: Connecting with Employees at Your Target Company
Networking is one of the most powerful ways to get noticed, and LinkedIn makes it easier than ever. Instead of simply submitting your resume, take time to connect with professionals already working at your target company.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Find the Company’s Employee List: Scroll down on the company’s LinkedIn page and navigate to the “People” section. You’ll see a list of employees associated with the company.
- Filter by Location or Department: Narrow your search to people who work in your preferred location or department. For example, if you’re applying for a finance role in New York, filter employees who match that specific area.
- Send Personalized Connection Requests: Reach out to a few employees each day with a short, respectful message. For instance, you might say:
“Hi [Name], I admire the work your company is doing in [specific field]. I’m currently exploring opportunities in this area and would love to connect and learn from your experience.”
Why does this method work? Because when you build genuine connections, you create opportunities for referrals or insider information about upcoming roles. Employees can share what it’s like to work at the company, give advice for applying, or even recommend you internally—something that significantly boosts your chances of being noticed.
Method 3: Exploring a Company’s Official Careers Page
Many job seekers rely exclusively on LinkedIn job postings, but here’s a secret: not all openings are posted on LinkedIn. Companies often have dedicated careers pages on their official websites where they list opportunities that may never appear on LinkedIn.
For example, a company like JP Morgan lists thousands of positions on its careers page, ranging from internships to senior-level roles. These listings are updated more frequently and often include detailed job descriptions, requirements, and application instructions.
By visiting the careers page directly, you’re not only expanding your job search but also showing initiative. Employers appreciate candidates who go the extra mile to research their company thoroughly.
This method also helps you better understand the organization’s structure, culture, and growth opportunities. Instead of relying solely on the information provided in a LinkedIn job ad, you can gather insights directly from the source.
So before hitting “Apply” on LinkedIn, take a moment to check the company’s official website. You might discover roles better suited to your skills that haven’t been widely advertised.
Method 4: Reaching Out to Talent Acquisition Managers
One of the most effective, yet underutilized, strategies on LinkedIn is connecting with talent acquisition managers. These are the people directly involved in hiring decisions, making them valuable contacts during your job search.
To find them, use the LinkedIn search bar and type “Talent Acquisition Manager.” Then, filter results by:
- Location: Narrow down to the city or region where you’re looking for opportunities.
- Company: Apply filters to target specific organizations you’re interested in.
- Actively Hiring: This filter shows you managers currently posting about open roles.
Once you’ve identified the right people, review their activity feed. Many talent acquisition managers post job openings directly on their profiles. By following them, you gain access to opportunities before they’re widely advertised.
When reaching out, be professional and concise. For example:
“Hi [Name], I came across your profile and saw that you’re hiring for [role]. I’m very interested in this opportunity and would love to learn more about how I could contribute to your team. Could you share any advice on applying successfully?”
This approach not only increases your visibility but also demonstrates initiative. Instead of blending into the crowd, you establish a direct line of communication with decision-makers.
Putting It All Together: A Smarter Job Search Strategy
When it comes to applying for jobs on LinkedIn, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The most successful candidates use a combination of methods.
- Use Easy Apply for efficiency, but don’t rely on it exclusively.
- Connect with employees to gain insights and potential referrals.
- Explore company websites for opportunities that aren’t posted on LinkedIn.
- Reach out to talent acquisition managers to build direct relationships.
By combining these strategies, you’ll significantly increase your chances of landing interviews. Remember, the goal isn’t just to apply—it’s to stand out. Networking, research, and proactive communication are what separate successful applicants from the rest.
Conclusion: Stand Out, Don’t Blend In
LinkedIn is one of the most powerful platforms for job seekers, but only if you use it strategically. Relying solely on Easy Apply leaves you competing in a crowded space with little control over the outcome. By building connections with employees, checking company websites, and reaching out to recruiters directly, you position yourself as a proactive and committed candidate.
In today’s competitive job market, persistence and networking make all the difference. Each connection, message, or additional step you take increases your visibility and brings you closer to your dream job. So the next time you’re job hunting on LinkedIn, don’t just click “Apply”—use these four proven strategies to take control of your career journey.
Kalaivani Ramprasad
ATVM Workforce
Kalaivani Ramprasad
ATVM Workforce
Categories: : LinkedIn