How To Submit Online Applications Without Wasting Time
Online applications have revolutionized the job search process, making it easier to connect with potential employers. Understanding how to effectively apply online can significantly improve your chances of landing interviews and securing your desired position.
What Is Online Application?
An online application is a digital process that allows job seekers to submit their credentials to employers through internet-based platforms. These systems have largely replaced paper applications and have become the standard method for job hunting in today's digital age.
Most organizations now use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to manage the influx of applications they receive. These sophisticated software solutions help employers sort, filter, and evaluate candidates based on specific criteria. Understanding how these systems work gives applicants a significant advantage when submitting their information.
How Online Applications Work
The online application process typically begins with creating a user profile on either a company's career portal or a job board. This profile serves as your digital identity and often requires basic information such as your contact details, work history, and educational background.
After creating your profile, you'll need to tailor your application materials for each position. This customization is crucial as generic applications rarely stand out. Most systems allow you to upload your resume and cover letter, while others might require you to fill out standardized forms that extract information directly from your documents.
Once submitted, your application enters the employer's ATS, where it's screened against the job requirements. Applications that meet the criteria move forward in the process, while others may be automatically filtered out. This initial screening makes keyword optimization in your resume essential for advancing to the human review stage.
Provider Comparison for Online Application Platforms
Several platforms dominate the online application landscape, each offering unique features and benefits for job seekers:
| Platform | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Indeed | Wide job variety | One-click apply, resume builder |
| Professional networking | Easy apply, profile visibility | |
| Glassdoor | Company research | Salary data, company reviews |
| Monster | Resume distribution | Resume assessment, career advice |
LinkedIn stands out for professionals looking to leverage their network during job searches. Their Easy Apply feature streamlines the application process, while your professional profile serves as a living resume that recruiters can discover.
For those seeking comprehensive company information before applying, Glassdoor provides valuable insights through employee reviews, salary data, and interview questions. This information helps you tailor your application to each company's specific culture and expectations.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Applications
Benefits:
- Efficiency: Apply to multiple positions quickly without physical paperwork
- Accessibility: Search and apply for jobs worldwide from anywhere with internet access
- Organization: Track application status and history in one place
- Resources: Access to job recommendations and application tips
Drawbacks:
- Impersonal process: Limited opportunity to make a personal impression
- Technical issues: System glitches can interrupt applications
- ATS limitations: Qualified candidates may be filtered out by algorithms
- Competition: Lower barrier to entry means more applicants per position
To overcome these drawbacks, job search platform Jobscan offers tools to optimize resumes for specific ATS systems. Their analytics help ensure your application passes initial screening filters, increasing your chances of reaching human recruiters.
Optimizing Your Online Applications
Creating an effective online application requires strategic preparation and attention to detail. Start by researching each company thoroughly using resources like Vault, which provides insider information about company culture and hiring practices.
When crafting your application materials, incorporate relevant keywords from the job description. Many ATS platforms from providers like Workday and Taleo use these keywords as filtering criteria. However, avoid keyword stuffing, as applications that pass the ATS will eventually be reviewed by humans.
Follow application instructions precisely. Each deviation from the requested format or missing information can be grounds for rejection. If the system allows, save your progress regularly to prevent losing data due to connection issues or timeouts.
Finally, after submitting your application, follow up appropriately. Many job boards like CareerBuilder provide application tracking features that show whether your submission has been viewed. Use this information to time your follow-up communications effectively.
Conclusion
Mastering the online application process is essential in today's job market. By understanding how these systems work and optimizing your approach, you can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember that while technology facilitates connections between employers and candidates, the human element remains crucial. Your unique skills, experiences, and personality should shine through even in digital applications.
Take time to customize each submission, research companies thoroughly, and follow up appropriately. With persistence and strategic application techniques, you'll navigate the online application landscape more effectively and move closer to your career goals. The digital transformation of job applications has created both challenges and opportunities—those who adapt their approach will find themselves at a distinct advantage.
Citations
- https://www.indeed.com
- https://www.linkedin.com
- https://www.glassdoor.com
- https://www.monster.com
- https://www.jobscan.co
- https://www.vault.com
- https://www.workday.com
- https://www.taleo.net
- https://www.careerbuilder.com
This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.