Beyond the Button: Why You Should Think Twice Before Using ‘Quick Apply’

By Kraig Kleeman

“In the world of job applications, ‘Quick Apply’ is like a fast food menu; it might fill you up fast, but it won’t satisfy the hunger of a discerning employer looking for a gourmet meal tailored just for them.” — Kraig Kleeman, Founder and CEO

Introduction

Hello, all; Kraig Kleeman here. Today, some thoughts on LinkedIn’s “Quick Apply” functionality. If you’re looking for a job, you have no doubt seen that little button promising to expedite your application process. Glittering, right? But here’s the thing: while it’s super tempting to fly through job applications, I noticed-and heard from a bunch of HR pros-that these quickie apps often end up getting ghosted. What’s the deal?

Quick Apply: Fast but Maybe Not so Fabulous

Let me spell it out for you. “Quick Apply” lets you fire your resume off to numerous jobs in one fell swoop, and with no changes. I get it-we’re all trying to find ways to cut corners and save time. But here’s what I’ve learned: when you apply to any and every job in the sun using the same generic resume, you may not be doing yourself a favor.

I talked to one once, HR manager, and she told me the minute she sees one of those applications generically written, it’s the “Dear Occupant” mailer-you know it’s not only for you, and it doesn’t make you feel special. And that is how employers feel about generic applications. What they want to see is that you are into the job and have taken a minute to tailor your resume to what they need.

Hearing the Experts

I have spoken to a lot of HR people, and each has told me the same thing: tailor it. When you send out a resume that is clearly been adjusted for the job, it shows you care. You’re telling the employer in so many words: “Hey, I really want this job, and here is why I am a great fit for it.”.

One expert explained to me, “When someone has obviously taken the time to tailor their application specifically, it isn’t just about the effort. It shows that they really want to work with us, and that’s the kind of person we want to interview.”

Tips to Make Your Application Outstanding

So, how do you get from Quick Apply to an interview? Here are some tips that worked for me and others in the job search trenches:

  • Make It Personal: Before hitting send, edit your resume. Emphasize the experiences that match what the job ad is asking for. It takes a bit more time, but it’s worth the extra effort.
  • Do Your Homework: Show off a little in your cover letter by mentioning something cool the company has done recently or a goal they’re working toward. That will demonstrate you have done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role.
  • Follow up after applying: call and do not be afraid to follow up. A short email or direct message on LinkedIn will remind them of your application and let them know you are a proactive individual.

Wrapping Up

The thing is, “Quick Apply” might sound like a shortcut, but the real secret to job search success is taking the time to make each application count. Think of it this way: would you rather send 100 letters that nobody reads or 10 that really get attention?

About Kraig Kleeman

Kraig Kleeman is a highly successful entrepreneur, author, and showrunner. If his accomplishments and aspirations were to draw inspiration from natural icons, he could be described as a fusion of Elon Musk’s visionary approach to business and Mick Jagger’s electrifying stage presence. He possesses keen business acumen and a flair for captivating performances that awe audiences.

Kraig’s entrepreneurial spirit is boundless, as evidenced by his track record of founding a tech company and taking it from nothing to $30 million in sales under four years. His newest venture, The New Workforce, is growing by triple digits, quarter over quarter. While some may liken his abilities to a Midas touch, others prefer to think of it as transforming companies into profitable ventures instead of turning things into gold!