When you are applying for jobs on LinkedIn, you may notice that some job postings show the statement “Be among the top 10 applicants” or “Top 10 applicants” next to the Apply button. This refers to a feature on LinkedIn where employers can choose to only consider the first 10 applicants who apply for a specific role.
What does “Top 10 applicants” mean?
The “Top 10 applicants” label indicates that the employer posting the job has opted into LinkedIn’s “Top Applicants” feature. This allows employers to limit the number of applicants they review and consider to only the first 10 candidates who apply.
So if you see “Top 10 applicants” or “Be among the top 10 applicants” on a job posting, it means there is a cap on the number of applicants the employer will evaluate for that role. Only the first 10 people to apply will be considered. Anyone who applies after those first 10 applicants will not be reviewed by the employer.
Why do employers use the Top Applicants feature?
There are a few reasons why an employer may want to limit applicants to the first 10 candidates who apply:
- To reduce the overwhelming volume of applications that come in for some roles
- To focus their recruiting efforts on the candidates who are most eager and responsive
- To expedite the screening and evaluation process by reviewing fewer applicants
- To encourage quick applications from qualified candidates who are actively job searching
Reviewing only the first 10 applicants allows hiring managers to streamline the process and zero in on those early, highly engaged candidates. Rather than getting bogged down evaluating hundreds of applicants, they can focus on a smaller pool of potential top talent.
How does the Top Applicants process work?
When an employer activates the Top Applicants option, the job posting will clearly state “Top 10 applicants” or “Be among the top 10 applicants.”
The first 10 qualified candidates who submit their application will be marked as a “Top Applicant.” LinkedIn uses the time stamp of when the Apply button is clicked to determine the order.
Once the role has received 10 applicants, the Top Applicants status will display as “Closed” on the job posting. At that point, any additional candidates who apply will no longer be considered a top applicant for that role.
How to improve your chances of being a Top Applicant
If you come across jobs labeled “Top 10 applicants,” you’ll need to act fast and apply as soon as possible to have the best shot at being in that top group of candidates the employer reviews.
Here are some tips to boost your chances of making the Top Applicants list:
- Turn on job alerts – Enable notifications so you’re instantly alerted when relevant new roles are posted.
- Apply to jobs daily – Make it a habit to check LinkedIn for new postings and apply to positions quickly.
- Follow companies – Follow your target companies so their newly posted jobs appear at the top of your LinkedIn feed.
- Refine your skills – Tailor your profile to match in-demand skills that will get you past resume screening.
- Update your application – Prep a general cover letter you can quickly customize for fast applications.
- Setup 1-click apply – Streamline applying with LinkedIn Easy Apply when available.
Using these tips can help you respond right away when your ideal jobs are posted and secure your spot among the top candidates under review.
Pros and cons of being a Top Applicant
Competing to make the Top Applicants list has some potential advantages and disadvantages for job seekers.
Pros:
- Increased visibility – Your application will definitely be reviewed by the hiring team.
- Faster process – Can expedite the hiring process with fewer competitors.
- Motivation to apply – Encourages submitting applications promptly when qualified.
- Stand out – Gives motivated applicants a chance to rise above the noise.
Cons:
- Added pressure – Need to rush to apply before the top 10 spots are filled.
- Limited consideration – Employers may miss out on qualified candidates who apply after the cap.
- Time limitations – Top candidates have to apply within a short window to qualify.
- Intense competition – Top applicants will be stacked against other eager candidates.
Weighing these tradeoffs can help you determine if being a Top Applicant aligns with your job search priorities and strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you change your Top Applicant status after applying?
No, your Top Applicant status cannot be changed after submitting your application. The first 10 candidates to apply will be marked as Top Applicants. Once those spots are filled, no one else can be added to the Top Applicants for that role.
Can you see who else applied as a Top Applicant?
Applicants are not able to see who else has applied for a role or who else is considered a Top Applicant. The Top Applicants list and status is only visible to the employer.
Do Top Applicants get special treatment?
Being marked as a Top Applicant does not guarantee you will get an interview or be hired. It simply means your application will get priority review by the employer. They will evaluate your full application just like any other candidate.
Is the Top Applicants program free to apply?
Yes, applying as a Top Applicant is completely free just like a standard job application. You do not have to pay or upgrade your LinkedIn account.
Can you ask to be considered a Top Applicant after positions fill?
Unfortunately once the 10 Top Applicant slots fill up, there is no way to be added to the priority group. You can still apply but will not be marked as a Top Applicant. Your best bet is to turn on notifications and apply early.
Key Takeaways
- The “Top 10 Applicants” label on LinkedIn job postings indicates the employer is limiting applicants to only the first 10 candidates.
- Apply quickly to have the best chance of making the Top 10 Applicants list and getting priority review.
- Turn on alerts and follow target companies to see new openings right away.
- Prepare a strong application upfront for fast submission to beat the competition.
- Weigh the potential upsides and downsides before applying to Top Applicant roles.
Targeting Top Applicant job opportunities can help motivated candidates get their foot in the door, but also requires swift action and an exceptional application. With a refined LinkedIn profile, proactive mindset, and optimized application materials, you can improve your likelihood of landing among the top 10 applicants under an employer’s consideration.
Conclusion
The Top Applicants feature on LinkedIn allows employers to limit their applicant pool to only the first 10 candidates who apply. This label indicates a competitive application process where applying quickly is key. While Top Applicant roles have some advantages like guaranteed review and expedited hiring, they also come with tight turnaround times and intense competition. With proper preparation and a vigilant job search approach, you can use Top Applicant postings to get priority consideration from employers, stand out from the pack, and accelerate your job search success.