Why can't I get a job on Linkedin?
The reason you’re not getting hired on LinkedIn is
- Lack of feedback on what you might be doing wrong
- The sheer amount of competition on the platform
Lack of feedback
The job application process has become so streamlined that you can submit an application with a few clicks, only to be rejected by an automated system. At best, you receive a generic email politely informing you that another applicant was chosen. At worst, you hear nothing at all.
This lack of feedback makes it difficult for applicants to improve how they apply. Let’s change that.
ASK FOR FEEDBACK
Recruiters are people too
There have been times in the past when I’ve received messages from people asking why they weren’t hired and depending on how they asked I was more than willing to share my thoughts with them. Word case scenario they don’t respond, best case you get some potentially helpful feedback. Here are some tips to make a recruiter want to help you.
Be Professional
While not getting the job is a frustrating experience, it doesn’t accomplish anything to be mean. Use polite, professional language while emphasizing your desire to learn.
Be Specific
Don’t just ask why not. Give the person a starting point to help you.
- What areas do you recommend improving?
- Was there anything specific that stuck out to you about my resume?
- Was there a specific reason I wasn’t considered for the next phase of applicants?
Communicate Channel
The LinkedIn messaging channel is generally a safe bet, however email will work too, but only if they provide it via the job listing.
Show Gratitude
A small amount of gratitude is all upside. It costs nothing, keeps the line of communication open, and can make you stand out if you apply with this company again. Generally candidate profiles carry over between job applications at the same company, and a note in your profile showing a willingness to learn and a pleasant attitude can make the difference next time.
Competition
Competition is a huge factor especially when you are looking for a remote role (who isn’t). According to the US Career Institute 28.7% of all current employees would work from home given the opportunity. Coupled with the fact that 75% of people who are looking for a job use LinkedIn in their job search, we are using an extremely saturated platform. It is not uncommon to see job listings with 1000’s of applicants. How can you compete?
STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD
Optimize your LinkedIn profile
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital resume and the first impression for potential employers. Just as you put effort into your appearance before an interview, your LinkedIn page should reflect your professionalism with a polished finish.
Headline: Make sure your headline is more than just your job title. Include keywords that reflect your skills and the type of job you’re seeking.
Summary: Write a compelling summary that highlights your experience, skills, and career goals. Use this space to tell your professional story.
Experience: Detail your job history, focusing on achievements and responsibilities. Use bullet points for clarity as they are much easier to read than a block of text.
Skills: List relevant skills and get endorsements from colleagues and supervisors when possible.
Tailor your resume to the job listing
Tailoring your resume to a job listing can be tedious and discouraging, especially when you put in the effort and receive no response. However, statistically, it significantly improves your chances.
Skills Section: Take required skills from the job listing and put them at the top of your skills list. This makes you more likely to pass through ATS and your recruiter will be drawn to those specific words when looking at your resume.
Work Section: In your work section, place the experiences that most closely match the job listing at the top of the section. If you have more than 5 bullets, trim the bullets to include the most relevant experience. Statistically, you have an average of 10 seconds to capture the attention of the person reading your resume. Make that 10 seconds count by showing them what they are looking for ASAP.
Reach out
After applying for a job, send a follow-up message to the recruiter or hiring manager. Express your enthusiasm for the position and briefly reiterate why you’re a great fit. I’ve never faulted a candidate for showing interest in the position and explaining why they would be a good fit. It demonstrates that they read the job description and can take the initiative.
