It’s not uncommon to see the same job posting listed multiple times on LinkedIn and other job sites. There are a few reasons why companies and recruiters do this:
Casting a wider net
Posting a job multiple times allows the recruiter to reach a broader audience and connect with more potential candidates. LinkedIn’s algorithm determines which users see a particular job posting in their feeds based on profile keywords, experience, connections and other factors. Reposting the same job ensures it gets in front of different users each time.
Keeping the job at the top
LinkedIn sorts job postings by date, with the most recent at the top. Reposting pushes the job back to the top of the listings so it gets maximum visibility. As candidates scroll through pages of openings, a job that keeps rising to the top has a better chance of being seen and attracting applicants.
Testing different wording
By posting the same job with slightly different titles, descriptions or requirements, recruiters can test which version performs best. They can then use the wording that generates the most clicks, views, shares or applications.
Reasons for Duplicate Postings
Here are some of the most common reasons you may see the same job listed multiple times on LinkedIn:
Job board integrations
Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) or human resource information systems (HRIS) to manage their recruiting and hiring. These systems can automatically publish open jobs to LinkedIn and other sites through integrations. If the integration is not set up properly, it may continuously repost the same listing.
Multiple recruiters
Large companies may have several recruiters or hiring managers working to fill the same role. If they are not coordinating closely, each one may inadvertently post the job on their own LinkedIn profile.
Agency involvement
Companies hiring through recruitment agencies and staffing firms may see duplicate postings. Both the agency and company could post the job independently without being aware the other party already listed it.
Remote options
If a role allows remote work, the company may post it multiple times focusing on different locations each time. For example, they could list the job for candidates in New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles to attract applicants willing to work from each area remotely.
Limited LinkedIn licenses
Companies with a limited number of LinkedIn recruiter seats may reuse postings when licenses become available again. Instead of paying for extra seats, they rotate recruiters and repost old jobs under new licenses.
How to Handle Duplicate Postings
As a job seeker, here are some tips for dealing with duplicate postings:
Focus on quality over quantity
Don’t assume that a higher number of listings equals more available positions. Treat multiple posts for the same role as just one open job.
Apply once
There’s no need to submit separate applications when you see a duplicated job. Choose one posting and complete the application process as directed.
Leverage your network
Check if you have any connections at the company and ask them for details about the job. They can provide insight on whether it’s a repost or legitimately open multiple times.
Ask about it
During interviews, you can mention seeing the job listed more than once and tactfully ask the recruiter or hiring manager about it. This signals your interest and gives them a chance to explain the reasoning.
Platform | Postings |
---|---|
3 | |
Indeed | 2 |
Monster | 1 |
Benefits of Reposting for Employers
While duplicate job listings can be frustrating for job seekers, here are some of the benefits for employers:
Increased exposure
Reposting expands the reach of job ads to more potential qualified candidates. Instead of just the people who happened to see it the first time, reposting allows a wider audience to view the posting.
Higher applications
With greater visibility comes increased applications. Employers trying to attract more applicants for hard-to-fill roles may rely on reposting to boost their response numbers.
Prolonged listings
Continually reposting a job keeps it active on job sites longer. This gives the company more time to find the right hire instead of shutting down the posting after a set period.
Social proof
A job posted multiple times signals that the company has an urgent need and is eagerly hiring. Even if it’s the same position relisted, it looks like new openings to candidates.
Flexibility
Reposting allows employers to tweak requirements, job titles or descriptions to find the optimal recruitment approach. They can experiment to determine what works best.
Best Practices for Employers
To maximize results from reposting jobs, employers should:
Wait 1-2 weeks between postings
Let the initial wave of applications come in before reposting. Posting too frequently is seen as spammy.
Update the wording
Tweak parts of the posting like job titles and requirements when reposting instead of copying it exactly. This makes it seem like a new listing.
Segment by location
Take a remote job and repost it targeting different metropolitan areas to attract local candidates open to remote work.
Announce it internally
When reposting externally, send an internal memo so employees don’t think it’s a new opening every time they see it.
Use different platforms
Cross-post across different sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, etc. A multi-platform strategy expands reach.
Conclusion
While duplicate job postings can be annoying for job seekers, they come from employers’ desires to connect with more candidates. Reposting works best when spaced out and coupled with updated wording tailored for different applicant pools. With the right strategy, duplicating listings can help companies find qualified candidates efficiently.