With the rise of social media and professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, job seekers now have more options than ever when it comes to applying for jobs. But which is better – submitting an application through LinkedIn or sending in a traditional resume? There are pros and cons to each approach.
Pros of Applying via LinkedIn
Applying for jobs directly through LinkedIn has a few key advantages:
- Convenience – Everything is in one place. Your profile serves as your resume, and you can submit applications with just a few clicks.
- Visibility – LinkedIn profiles are often visible to recruiters even when you aren’t actively applying for a job. So you have more passive visibility.
- Matching – LinkedIn uses data and algorithms to match members with jobs they may be a good fit for.
- Networking – Applying via LinkedIn allows you to easily leverage your professional connections at a company.
Cons of Applying via LinkedIn
However, there are also some potential downsides to be aware of with LinkedIn applications:
- Less control – You are limited to the standardized LinkedIn application form and have less ability to customize for each application.
- Resume formatting – Complex resume formatting like tables, charts, etc. may be lost when applying through LinkedIn.
- Applicant Tracking Systems – Some company ATS may not be fully integrated with LinkedIn’s application system.
- Volume – Large companies may receive an overwhelming volume of LinkedIn applications to sort through.
Pros of Applying with a Resume
On the other hand, applying with a traditional resume gives you some advantages like:
- Customization – You can tailor your resume specifically for each application, adjusting keywords, details, formatting etc.
- Complete information – A resume allows you to go into more detail about your background and qualifications than a LinkedIn profile.
- Applicant Tracking Systems – Most company ATS are designed to scan and process resumes. A tailored resume may get more visibility.
- Stand out – With a resume you have more control over standing out from other applicants.
Cons of Applying with a Resume
However, there are some downsides to resumes as well:
- More effort – Customizing and updating multiple resume versions takes significantly more work than clicking “Easy Apply” on LinkedIn.
- Details fall through cracks – It’s easy to forget to update all versions of your resume consistently.
- Harder to leverage networks – Resumes rely solely on your application itself rather than taking advantage of professional connections.
- Can get lost in the pile – Resumes may end up lost in a sea of applicants without visibility beyond the application.
Key Considerations
When deciding whether to apply through LinkedIn or use a resume, here are some key considerations:
- Application instructions – Review the job posting carefully to see if they specify how to apply and in what format.
- Company preferences – Look at the company’s LinkedIn page and website. Do they focus on LinkedIn? Or emphasize resumes?
- Job level – Entry-level roles may rely more heavily on LinkedIn, while senior roles may expect customized resumes.
- Formatting needs – Evaluate if the role requires special formatting like a portfolio, charts, tables etc. that may not come across on a LinkedIn profile.
Tips for Using LinkedIn to Apply
If you do decide to leverage LinkedIn to apply for jobs, here are some tips:
- Complete your profile – Fill out all sections, include keywords, and add media like a professional photo.
- Customize your headline – Tailor your headline for each application to match the key requirements.
- Use relevant keywords – Research terms used in the job post and highlight matching skills or experience in your profile.
- Mention connections – Name drop any contacts you have at the company in your application message.
Sample LinkedIn Headline Tailored to Job Posting
Data Analyst | Python | R | SQL | Tableau | Statistics
Tips for Using Resumes to Apply
If sending in a traditional resume, make sure to:
- Match keywords – Identify keywords from the job description and incorporate them into your resume.
- Quantify achievements – Use numbers and metrics to quantify your accomplishments.
- Optimize for applicant tracking systems – Use standard headings, simple formatting, and avoid tables or columns.
- Customize for each role – Adapt the details and emphasis in your resume for each application.
Sample Resume Keywords for a Marketing Role
Social media, content marketing, email campaigns, SEO, Google Analytics, CRM, market research
Should You Do Both?
The good news is you do not necessarily have to choose just one or the other. Many job seekers find it most effective to utilize both LinkedIn and customized resumes in their search.
You can maintain a strong general LinkedIn presence for passive visibility and networking. But customize your resume for those roles you’re especially excited about.
Having both a LinkedIn profile and tailored resumes ready allows you to use the right tool for each specific application. Just be sure to keep all information consistent across both.
Conclusion
In summary, while LinkedIn provides convenience and networking, resumes offer more customization and control. There is no definitive answer for which is better for all situations. Focus on these key points:
- Check the application instructions and company preferences
- Evaluate the role level and any special formatting needs
- Use LinkedIn tips like customizing your headline
- Match resume keywords to the job description
- Consider maintaining both a strong LinkedIn presence and customized resumes
Every job search will be a bit different. With the right strategy you can maximize your chances by picking the best application approach for each role.
