Applying for jobs can feel like a full-time job. You spend so much time looking for the right fit and polishing your resume and cover letter to perfection, and that’s before you even start the interview process. Your hard work will pay off and lead to a paycheck faster if you know how to apply for a job online.
1. Update your application for each job:
The most important thing you need to know to learn how to apply for a job online is how to customize your resume for each job. When you apply for jobs online, your application often goes through software called an applicant tracking system. It sifts through the applications by searching for keywords related to the job description. By including some of the key skills and responsibilities from the job description in your resume and cover letter, it is more likely your application will get seen by the hiring manager.
2. Fill everything out:
Some companies will let you include a cover letter, but they don’t make it mandatory. Your application will stand out if you put in the extra effort and complete the entire application. The cover letter lets you showcase your strengths, communication skills, and why you are the right candidate. If you are applying for a job on LinkedIn, the platform sometimes doesn’t let you attach a resume and cover letter. If that’s the case, apply directly on the company’s website.
3. Keep it simple:
When you are applying online, use a common, easy-to-read font and simple formatting for your resume and cover letter because the applicant tracking system might not be able to read more complicated formatting. Save them as a PDF so the formatting doesn’t change. Save it as your first and last name and cover letter or resume. When you attach your resume to some online applications, it will automatically fill out the application with your experience and education, but sometimes the formatting looks sloppy. Take a few minutes to clean it up.
4. Streamline the process:
When you create a profile on job boards, you can upload your resume and recruiters will reach out to you if there is a fit. Use LinkedIn to get notifications when your target companies post new jobs and set alerts for the job titles you want and your location. You can also update your LinkedIn so recruiters can see that you are job searching and the types of roles you want. Make sure you select “recruiters only” so connections at your company don’t see that you have one foot out the door. (Keep in mind that recruiters at your current company may see it.)
5. Get a referral:
The best way to make sure your application gets seen by a hiring manager is to have someone at the company send it to them directly. If you know someone who works there, let them know you filled out the online job application, attach your cover letter and resume, and ask if they will pass it along to the hiring manager. If it is someone you worked with in the past, ask if they would put in a good word for you. Not sure if you know someone at the company or know someone who does? Go to the company page on LinkedIn and search through current employees. You can click to see who went to your college or university and send a cold email. Many companies offer bonuses to employees who refer a candidate who gets selected, so it can end up being a win for them as well!
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