On LinkedIn, when you apply for a job, the job poster can see the order in which applicants applied. Being among the first 25 applicants means your application was submitted soon after the job was posted, before many other people had a chance to apply. This early application can give you an advantage in the hiring process.
Why Being an Early Applicant Matters
Applying early is important for several reasons:
Increased Visibility
When you’re one of the first applicants, your application is more likely to stand out. Hiring managers and recruiters are less overwhelmed by applications when the posting first goes live. Your application has a better chance of being reviewed, rather than passed over in a sea of submissions.
Convey Genuine Interest
Applying soon after a job is posted signals to the employer that you are eager for this specific role. It shows you have been actively searching and immediately recognized the job as a great fit. This helps you stand out from applicants who may be applying more broadly to any available opening.
Avoid the Rush
For popular roles, it’s common for hundreds of applicants to apply within the first few days. By getting your application in early, you avoid having it lost in the influx. Applying later also increases the chances of the role being filled before you even submit.
How to Be Among the First 25
Here are some tips to help your application land near the top of the stack:
Set Up Job Alerts
Use LinkedIn’s job alert feature to be notified when new openings matching your search criteria are listed. This lets you find and apply to jobs right after they are posted, before they gain widespread visibility.
Check New Postings Frequently
Make it a habit to check LinkedIn’s job board multiple times per day, especially if you are actively searching. Look for jobs posted within the last 24 hours to jump on them quickly.
Follow Companies You’re Interested In
By following companies, you see when they post new jobs. Oftentimes companies will promote openings on their LinkedIn Company Page before the jobs appear in searches.
Apply with Saved Profiles
Save profiles for jobs and companies that interest you. Then it only takes a few clicks to apply when new roles are posted.
Turn on Notifications
Enable notifications so you are alerted when target companies post jobs or people in your network apply to a role. This real-time alert system makes it easier to apply within the first day.
Use LinkedIn’s “Easy Apply” Filter
When searching for jobs, filter by Easy Apply. These listings allow you to apply directly on LinkedIn with just the click of a button. The fast application process improves your chances of submitting early.
Benefits of Being an Early Applicant
Applying soon after a job is listed can improve your chances of moving forward in the hiring process. Some key benefits include:
Increased Likelihood of Getting an Interview
Various surveys of recruiters and hiring managers show that candidates who apply within the first few days have a higher chance of being called for an interview. Submitting after a role has already received hundreds of applicants lowers your odds.
Quicker Hiring Process
In some cases, companies look to conduct interviews and fill the role as soon as possible after posting. Early applicants are more likely to make it through the entire hiring funnel before the position is closed.
Less Competition
Exceptional candidates often apply right away. By joining these early applicants, you position yourself among other highly qualified candidates rather than competing against a giant applicant pool.
More Interaction with the Company
When you engage with the company early, there are more opportunities for you to connect with recruiters and hiring managers. This facilitates communication that helps you stand out.
Early Applicant Data
Statistics illustrate the concrete benefits of being an early applicant:
Data Point | Statistic |
---|---|
Percentage of applicants who apply within 5 days who get interviewed | 25% |
Percentage who apply after 30 days who get interviewed | 15% |
Number of applicants received within first 10 days of posting | 60% |
Number of applicants after 30 days | 80% |
Key Takeaways
– Applicants in the first 5 days have a 10% higher interview rate
– 60% of applicants apply within the first 10 days
– Delaying application submission by 30 days reduces your chances
Being an early applicant pays off with increased visibility and higher consideration for interviews. Strive to submit your application within the first few days of a job being posted to maximize your chances of moving forward.
When Being Early Doesn’t Matter
While applying soon after posting has many advantages, there are some cases when it does not make a major impact:
Low Interest Roles
If a job has received fewer than 25 applicants after a week or longer, applying early is less crucial. With fewer candidates, your application has time to stand out.
Already Advanced in Hiring
Look at the job posting date. If a role was listed more than 2 weeks ago but is still accepting applications, it may mean they have already interviewed candidates and you have low odds of outpacing them.
Referral from Employee
A referral or recommendation from someone at the company could outweigh when you submit your application. Leverage your network for priority consideration.
Niche Qualifications
If you have rare skills specifically matched to the job, the timing of your application matters less. They may need to wait for the right candidate, regardless of application date.
Already in Previous Communication
If you have been communicating with the company about this role prior to the posting, connecting early provides less additional value.
Following Up After Applying
To maximize your early applicant advantage, make sure to follow up proactively:
Connect with the Hiring Manager
Finding and reaching out directly to the person in charge of hiring for this role positions you as an eager candidate.
Send a Thank You Note
A thank you message to the recruiter or hiring manager shows extra initiative. Follow up again if you don’t hear back after 1-2 weeks.
Check Application Status
It’s appropriate to inquire about your application status 1-2 weeks after applying. This shows continued interest.
Add Value
Offer helpful information or resources related to the job to demonstrate your passion and capabilities beyond just submitting an application.
Proactively following up and adding value can help early applicants leverage the timing of their submission. Keep showing interest and enthusiasm beyond clicking “apply” online.
Should You Wait to Apply?
Is there any scenario when it may be strategic to wait a bit before applying?
After a Holiday Weekend or Vacation Period
Postings made right before or during a major holiday or vacation tend to get less initial visibility. Wait a few days until people are back at work to stand out.
When You Need Time to Prepare
If you need a few days to prepare a thoughtful cover letter or update your LinkedIn profile, wait until you are ready with a polished application package.
To Learn More About the Role
Taking a few days to research the company, position responsibilities, and ideal candidate attributes can help you tailor your application.
However, in most scenarios, applying as soon as possible gives you the best advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about being among the first 25 applicants on LinkedIn:
How long do I have to apply to be considered an early applicant?
To maximize your chances, strive to apply within the first 24-48 hours. Being within the first 5 days is still beneficial. After 10 days, the advantage declines unless it is a less popular role.
Does every company care about early applicants?
While most companies recognize the benefits of early interest, some recruiters or hiring managers may not factor it in heavily. Follow up respectfully to gauge if timing impacted consideration.
What if I’m not fully qualified but apply early?
The advantages mainly apply when you meet the core job qualifications. Applying early with significant gaps is less impactful. Make sure your skills match the role.
What if I know someone at the company but don’t apply early?
Referrals or internal connections are extremely valuable regardless of application timing. But applying soon after posting can still increase chances, rather than waiting.
How do I know if I was in the first 25?
Most companies won’t confirm your exact applicant number. But engaging with your recruiter contact can provide signals if timing gave you an edge or not.
Conclusion
Being among the first 25 applicants for a LinkedIn job posting can significantly improve your chances of moving ahead in the hiring process. Submitting your application soon after a role is listed ensures you stand out before the influx of candidates. This early interest and enthusiasm also conveys to the company that you are an eager, qualified candidate worth prioritized consideration.
To secure this advantage, vigilantly check LinkedIn and enable alerts to find new openings right when they are posted. With a polished application ready, take the time to apply as soon as possible. While early application is not a guaranteed interview, it maximizes your potential of progressing and gets your foot in the door.