In the vast ocean of LinkedIn, the thought of navigating through countless applicants can be daunting. However, don’t let the sea of competition deter you from applying for your dream job. This blog post will delve into why you should embrace the challenge of LinkedIn applications and provide valuable strategies to help you stand out from the crowd. By leveraging the power of personalisation, showcasing your unique qualities, and conducting thorough research, you can increase your chances of securing that coveted position.

The LinkedIn Challenge

• Quantity Doesn’t Mean Quality: While it’s true that LinkedIn attracts a significant number of applicants, it’s essential to recognise that not all candidates possess the necessary qualifications or skills for a specific role. Many people apply indiscriminately (and with the apply now button!) hoping for a stroke of luck. By understanding this dynamic, you can approach the application process with confidence, knowing that genuine effort and a tailored approach will set you apart. You could be just qualified as the competition – don’t self reject!
• The Hidden Gem Effect: Among the multitude of applicants, there are diamonds in the rough waiting to be discovered. Employers actively search for exceptional candidates who can add value to their organisation. By showcasing your unique strengths, skills, and experiences, you increase the likelihood of catching the recruiter’s attention. So, rather than being intimidated by the numbers, view the competition as an opportunity to showcase your worth. Top tip- You can do this with an interesting cover letter!
• Hiring Process Stages: It’s important to remember that the applicant count on LinkedIn is merely an initial snapshot of the competition. As the hiring process progresses, the pool of candidates naturally narrows down. Hiring managers sift through applications to shortlist the most promising individuals for interviews and assessments. By submitting a strong application, you increase your chances of progressing to the next stages, where you have more opportunities to make a lasting impression.
• The Power of Timing: Timing can play a crucial role in the hiring process. While LinkedIn may indicate a high applicant count, it doesn’t consider factors such as candidate withdrawal, changes in hiring needs, or internal referrals. Sometimes, employers may decide to reopen a position or consider late applicants if they haven’t found the right fit. By submitting your application, you position yourself to benefit from such serendipitous opportunities that may arise during the recruitment process.

Now that you understand that high applicant numbers are not an insurmountable obstacle, you can shift your mindset and focus on the strategies that will lead you to success. Rather than feeling intimidated, see the abundance of candidates as an opportunity to showcase your skills and make a memorable impression on employers. Your dedication, personalised approach, and determination will set you apart.

Strategies to Stand Out on LinkedIn

• Tailoring Your Application: Customising your application materials for each role is crucial in capturing the attention of any employer. Take the time to thoroughly review the job description, identifying the key skills and qualifications sought after by the company. Craft a compelling CV and cover letter that clearly demonstrate how your background aligns with their requirements. This personalised approach shows your genuine interest and dedication to the role.
• Highlighting Your Unique Qualities: Recruiters not only seek qualified candidates but also individuals who bring a unique perspective and skill set to the table. Take the opportunity to showcase your passions, interests, and extracurricular activities that align with the job or company culture. These qualities can make you stand out and leave a lasting impression. Emphasise how your diverse experiences contribute to your ability to solve problems, collaborate effectively, and bring innovative ideas to the organisation. You may not have space to include this in your CV, so be sure to make the most of your cover letter!

Leveraging LinkedIn Features: LinkedIn offers various features that can enhance your profile and help you stand out:

• Engaging Headline and Summary: Craft a captivating headline and a compelling summary that succinctly describe your professional identity and aspirations. Use keywords relevant to your desired role to improve discoverability.
• Visual Content: Supplement your profile with visually appealing elements such as a professional headshot, background image, and media attachments to any portfolios etc. Visual content stands out from generic profiles and can engage recruiters and leave a memorable impression.
• Recommendations and Endorsements: Request recommendations from colleagues, friends, and lecturers, who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. Similarly, seek endorsements for specific skills relevant to your target role. These testimonials enhance your credibility and validate your abilities, making you a more likely hire.

Researching Employers on LinkedIn: LinkedIn serves as a powerful tool for researching potential employers. Here’s how you can utilise its features effectively:

• Company Pages and Updates: Explore the company’s LinkedIn page to gain insights into their mission, values, recent news, and achievements. This information helps you tailor your application materials to align with the company’s goals and culture. Doing this will also help you during the interviewing process, as the employer is more likely to want to work with someone, who is interested in the company. Doing your research beforehand will also allow you to decide if you think you would be a good fit for the company and whether or not YOU want to work for them, the selection process works both ways.
• Employee Profiles: Analyse profiles of current and former employees to understand their backgrounds, career paths, and skill sets. This knowledge can inform your application and help you tailor your approach to fit the company’s preferences. Doing this can also give you an insight into how their employees have got to where they are now, and this can help you when planning your own career path. Think about what they have done, and how you can do the same.

Networking and Connections: Engage with the company and its employees by joining relevant groups, following their page, and participating in conversations. Building connections and demonstrating genuine interest can mean that you’ll be first to know about any new opportunities at the company and capitalise on those opportunities.

The vast applicant pool on LinkedIn shouldn’t discourage you from pursuing your dream job. By recognising the hidden opportunities and implementing effective strategies, you can stand out and increase your chances of success. Tailoring your application, showcasing your unique qualities, and conducting thorough research are key to making a lasting impression on employers. Embrace the challenge, leverage the power of LinkedIn, and let your exceptional qualities shine.

Don’t forget, the Student Futures Team is here to help you with all of this! You can speak to one of our careers advisors about anything from improving your CV and LinkedIn profile to curating a cover letter. Once your application is successful, you can even take part in a practice interview. We also hold different events, depending on your needs and interests throughout the academic year, so keep your eyes peeled. If you would be interested in booking a 1-2-1 meeting with one of our advisors, please follow the link, and get yourself booked in! Good luck with those applications!