Instead of just hitting "Easy Apply" on LinkedIn jobs, do this 👉🏼

Look, I get it.

You spot that blue “Easy Apply” button on a job post and it seems too convenient to ignore – just two clicks, your CV flies off, and you’re done.

But when nearly 317 applicants do the same thing, your resume disappears into a digital void.

If you want to really stand out, you can’t be another generic applicant. You need to show up differently.

Here’s exactly what I’d do instead to boost your chances of being noticed and remembered.

Why “Easy Apply” feels good but doesn’t work as well

The “Easy Apply” button appeals to our desire for speed and efficiency – but ironically, it makes you part of the noise.

• You’re competing with dozens or hundreds applying in seconds for the same role.

• Recruiters often use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that filter based on keywords alone – meaning your submission needs to pass the filter and capture human interest.

• Business Insider article recently noted: applying-by-click has surged, but hearing back has dropped.

• Meanwhile, LinkedIn profiles that stood out had specific patterns and deliberate actions behind them.

So if you rely solely on “Easy Apply,” you’re playing the numbers game. And when everyone’s doing it, the bar is really low. You’ll get lost.

Do this instead: 1 minute that gets you noticed

Here’s your simple switch: instead of only applying via the button, take one extra minute to do something intentionally different.

1. Find the hiring manager, team lead, or someone you’d work with at the company.

2. Send them a connection request with a short personal message, such as (feel free to tweak it so it sounds more like you):

   “Hi [Name],
   I saw you're hiring for [position] – have you already found someone or still searching? :) I’ve [quick relevant skill/experience] and would love to help your team. Happy to send over a few ideas on how I could contribute if you're open to it.
   Best, [Your Name]”

   
   

3. Then go ahead and hit “Easy Apply” (or apply via the job site) – you've covered both bases.

⚠️ Does this guarantee an offer? No.
✅ But what it does guarantee is: you’ll show up as a person, not just a CV. You’ll get noticed.

That’s already more than 99 % of applicants are doing.

Why this 1 minute matters

You’re not just doing something extra. You’re doing something strategic.

• People remember names and faces, not generic applications.

• Your message introduces you as more than a candidate — as someone who knows the company, knows the team, and wants to belong.

• You signal proactive, engaged behaviour — which implicitly says you’ll add value.

• This approach aligns with what hiring experts say: standing out doesn’t always come down to skills alone, but also to presence and connection.

Even a small choice like sending a personalized connection request sends a different message:

“I’m serious. I’m interested. I’m aligned.”

That message means something. It could mean the difference between being overlooked and being invited for a chat.

What job-seekers, freelancers & solopreneurs often overlook

Since this article is written for job-seekers, career-switchers and freelancers, here are common mistakes I see – and how your “extra minute” fixes them:

Mistakes:

• ❌ Using “Easy Apply” + generic CV only

• ❌ Relying on high volume of applications, not quality

• ❌ A profile that’s static, unstimulated, and rarely updated

• ❌ Waiting to “feel” ready before showing up with posts or comments

How the “extra minute” helps:

• ✅ Moves you from passive applicant → visible professional

• ✅ Reduces reliance on mass applications

• ✅ Invites the human behind the CV to stand out

• ✅ Prepares you to use LinkedIn not just for search, but for engagement

How to use LinkedIn daily – Simple actions that make a real difference

Here are easy, manageable steps you can commit to – no huge time investment, just consistency.

• Update your profile photo (a strong headshot matters).

• Write a headline that includes what you do + who you help.

• Use the “About” section to show not just your skills, but your story and purpose.

• Send 2–3 connection requests/day to people in your target industry or companies.

• Comment on 1 post/day with insight — not just “Great post.”

• Share 1 post/week about your work, experiences or what you learned.

• When applying, use that extra minute: apply + personalized connection request/message.

These aren’t huge steps but they’re the steps most people skip. And that’s where you gain your edge.

You might wonder…

Does this work if I’m just a freelancer or solopreneur?

Yes. Making personal connections and showing up as a person who solves problems can be even more valuable than applying for fixed roles.

What if I’m career-switching and don’t have much experience?

Totally fine. Your message doesn’t have to highlight 10 years of experience – it just has to show curiosity, alignment, and willingness. In your connection request and profile, highlight what you’re interested in and what you bring.

Your next step: make this minute count

If you’re ready to go beyond “Easy Apply” and start showing up with purpose – let’s do it together.
I work 1:1 with people like you – job seekers, switchers, freelancers – who want to show up on LinkedIn with clarity, confidence, and visible impact.

👉 Book a 1:1 consultation today and let’s turn your LinkedIn presence into your competitive edge.