The Best Ways to Apply for Jobs Online & Get Hired Quickly

Jack Ma faced 30 rejections back to back before founding Alibaba.

Notably, when KFC came to his city, out of 24 applicants, 23 were hired – he was the only one rejected. 

But instead of giving up, he kept trying.

Finally, his grit paid off in 1999 when he built Alibaba. 

Alibaba is one of the world’s biggest online marketplaces with a market value of $200 Billion.

What can we learn from Jack’s story?

Rejection is common, but how we handle this completely flips the script. 

Today, the best place to find opportunities is through “The Internet”.

Why Applying for Jobs Online Is the New Standard

There are a few reasons for that:

1. Technology has improved which has made the application process easier.
2. Remote work has grown since 2020, and companies hire across borders.
3. Applying online is simply faster. 

In the past, applying for a job meant printing resumes, dressing up, and going from office to office. 

It was extremely tiring and took a lot of time. 

Today, you can apply to 20+ jobs with the same effort once used for one application. 

This shift is beneficial for both job seekers and employers. 

Job seekers have more opportunities, and employers have access to a vast pool of talent regardless of their location.

The Shift to Digital Job Applications

There are special platforms that connect job seekers and employers in one place.

As of 2021, LinkedIn reported that 55 job applications were submitted every second.

Take a look at these popular platforms:

• LinkedIn is great for professional and office jobs.
• Indeed is good for all kinds of jobs, from part-time to full-time.
• Upwork works well for freelancers looking for projects.
• Monster is good for global job searches.
• FlexJobs is perfect for remote and flexible jobs.

70% of employers use these platforms to find and screen candidates.

It’s super convenient—but that also means more competition. 

Since applying is easy, employers often get hundreds of applications for just one job. 

So, standing out isn’t just important—it’s a must.

How Companies Use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Most of the time, when you apply for a job online, your resume doesn’t go straight to a person. 

Instead, it passes through an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) – software that filters applications. 

Resumes are scanned in just 6-7 seconds, and 75% get rejected before a human ever sees them.

To pass through these filters, there are certain protocols.

The ATS Filter Checklist

1. Keywords: Use the exact words from the job description.
   1. If it says “Project Management” include that phrase. 

2. Simple Formatting: Skip fancy headers, graphics, or images. ATS systems can’t read them.

3. Standard Headings: Use common labels.
   1. Bad: Career Journey
   2. Good: Work Experience. Education

Example of ATS-friendly vs Non-optimized resume

Source = Indobot

Why a Strategic Approach to Online Job Applications Matters

Yes, applying within 48 hours of posting helps you get noticed because you’ll be ahead of most people.

But if you send the same resume to every job, it shows. 

Employers can tell when you haven’t taken the time to match your resume to the job. 

And when that happens, your application usually ends up in the “No” pile.

That’s why, being careful is just as important as being quick. Make sure you…

• Don’t apply for the same job twice
• Follow up at the right time
• Stay organized and focused 

In the end, a little extra effort makes a big difference in landing the job you want. 

Best Ways to Apply for Jobs Online (Step-by-Step Guide)

Here’s a quick guide for finding jobs online, standing out, and getting hired. 

1. Optimize Your Resume for Online Applications

As mentioned earlier, the first reviewers of resumes are not mostly humans. 

Many companies use ATS software to screen resumes. It’s essential to tailor the resume to pass this initial screening. 

To do this effectively, use the “Mirror & Match” method: 

Step # 1 – Look for skill-specific terms like “SEO” “CRM” or “Cross-functional teams” in the job description. 

Step # 2 – Place these keywords naturally in your resume’s skills and experience section. 

Step # 3 – Ensure you’re matching the company’s tone. For example, if the job description emphasizes “data-driven” uses sMatch the Company’s Tone: If the job description emphasizes being “data-driven,” use similar phrasing. If they value “innovation,” highlight your creative solutions.

Our Resume Builder makes this process super-simple:

It scans job posts, adds keywords, and optimizes resumes for ATS. 

Before vs. After Example:

Stick to standard fonts like Arial or Calibri and use straightforward headings to ensure compatibility.

2. Use the Right Job Search Platforms

You can’t apply for a corporate job on Fiverr or look for freelance gigs on LinkedIn’s full-time listings—it just doesn’t fit. 

To maximize your chances, use this 3-Tier Job Board Strategy.

Tier 1: Mass Platforms
Sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, Monster, and ZipRecruiter offer a massive pool of job listings. 

There are a variety of industries and job levels, from entry-level to executive positions. 

Use advanced filters (like location, salary, and experience level) to quickly find relevant listings. 

Tier 2: Niche Sites
For specialized roles, search niche boards like Dice (for tech), Mediabistro (for creatives), Lawjobs (legal professionals), Idealist (social impact/ nonprofit), and Dribble & Behance (visual artists). 

Tier 3: Hidden Networks
Many jobs aren’t publicly advertised. Explore company career pages, join Slack communities, or network through industry-specific groups to find the gigs. 

Signing up for job alerts helps you pick up the listing quickly. 

3. Tailor Each Job Application to Stand Out

Sending out generic applications rarely gets results. 

Hiring managers can spot an “I sent the same resume to 10 other places” application from a mile away. 

They’re looking for candidates who’ve taken the time to connect with the role.

Think about it…

If you were hiring for a paid position, would you pick someone who didn’t show interest from the start? 

Probably not. 

If a candidate isn’t engaged during the application process, it’s hard to believe they’ll be enthusiastic on the job. 

That’s why personalization matters. 

And no matter how much we stress this, it’s always worth repeating.

And if you’re too busy or don’t know how to do this, use our Auto Applier tool! 

It auto-tailors your resume and cover letter for each application effortlessly.

4. Apply Faster & Smarter (Without Wasting Time)

Speed matters in job applications—but so does strategy. 

Random mass applications won’t cut it. The key is to apply quickly while maintaining quality.

Use the 5-3-1 rule for daily applications:

• 5 quick applies using the Auto Applier for speed.
• 3 tailored applications with customized resumes and cover letters.
• 1 proactive follow-up, like sending a LinkedIn message to the hiring manager.

The Resume Generator, Auto Applier, and Cover Letter Generator personalize your applications.

5. Network to Boost Your Job Search Success

As Denis Waitley puts it: “If you’re not networking, you’re not working” 

Networking is important because of the “Mere Exposure Effect”. 

The more often someone hears from or sees you, the more favorable they feel toward you—which can increase your chances of being recommended or considered.

Apply this 70-20-10 networking rule:

• 70%: Tap into hidden job markets through networking. Conversations with industry peers, alumni, and mentors will help you find these opportunities.

• 20%: Dedicate time to applying through job boards and company websites.

• 10%: Focus on cold outreach—send thoughtful LinkedIn messages or set up virtual coffee chats.

A simple message like “Hi [Name], I’m exploring opportunities in [industry/role] and would love to hear about your experience at [Company]. Would you be open to a brief chat?” can be a good starting point.

6. Prepare for Online Interviews Immediately

This is it—the part where you’re shortlisted for the job.

You’ve already outpaced a lot of your competition, and now it’s time for the final hit at the bullseye.

Online interviews can feel easier (no one sees your nervous sweats), but the stakes are higher.

You’ve got to put in 2X the effort to showcase your professionalism, ethics, and punctuality.

Quick Tips:

• Tech check: Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection well before the interview. Use headphones to avoid echo and ensure clear audio.

• Background matters: Choose a clean, quiet space with good lighting. A neutral background keeps the focus on you.

• Dress the part: Treat it like an in-person interview. Professional attire shows respect and readiness, even if you’re sitting at your kitchen table.

Log in 5 minutes early—it shows punctuality and helps calm your nerves. Take a deep breath… you’ve got this!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Jobs Online

Certain habits can sabotage your job hunt. Here are three of the biggest pitfalls—and how to fix them:

• Sending Too Many Applications Without Customization

It might feel productive to blast out dozens of resumes, but generic applications often get lost in Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and overlooked by hiring managers.

ATS software scans for specific keywords and relevant experience. Without tailoring, your resume may never reach human eyes.

Adopt the “One-Size-Fits-One” approach (as mentioned in earlier sections).

Personalized applications take a bit more time but dramatically increase your chances of landing an interview.

• Ignoring the Cover Letter When It’s Optional

Many applicants skip the cover letter when it’s marked “optional,” but that’s a missed opportunity. 

Cover letters let you connect with the hiring manager beyond what’s in your resume. 

It’s your chance to show personality, align with the company’s mission, and highlight how you can add value.

A cover letter has these five parts:

1. Header
2. Salutation
3. Introduction
4. Body paragraph
5. Closing paragraph
6. Letter ending and signature
   

Example of a Cover Letter 

Source = Gect.mit 

• Not Following Up After Submitting Applications

Applying is just the first step—ghosting after applying can cost you the opportunity.

Following up shows initiative and keeps you top of mind with hiring managers.

Here’s a simple timeline to stay engaged without being pushy:

Day 1: Send an automated thank-you email.

“Thank you for considering my application. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Company Name].”

Day 5: Follow up on LinkedIn with a polite message.

“Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name], I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Job Title] role. I’m eager to bring my [specific skill] to your team. Let me know if you need any additional information!”

Day 7: Make a quick phone call to HR to check on your application status.

How AI Can Help You Land a Job Faster

Create a Winning Resume in Minutes

Resume Builder

1. Choose from professional templates that align with your industry.
2. Let AI help you customize and relevant keywords/skills.
3. Export in multiple formats for different application platforms.
4. Cut resume creation time from 2+ hours to a few minutes while maintaining professional quality.

Automate Job Applications & Get More Interviews

Auto-Job Application

1. Upload your existing resume or LinkedIn profile
2. Set specific search criteria to target only the ideal positions
3. Apply to 20+ relevant positions/day while maintaining high applications quality (without burn out) 
4. Free up to 5-8 hours weekly for networking and interview preparation
5. Never miss an opportunity because of 24/7 job board scanning

Feel free to explore our AI Humanizer and Detector using the widget below!

Final Tips to Get Hired Faster

Think beyond job boards.

Leverage hidden opportunities, make bold connections, and let your personality shine. 

Staying Organized and Tracking Your Applications

Applying for jobs is an overwhelming task. Many job seekers lose track of roles they’ve applied for. 

Staying organized is the most difficult thing at this point, but there’s a fix in the “Application Dashboard” framework.

In this framework, you have to set up tracking in tools like Trello, Notion, or Google Sheets.

Create columns for:

• Company
• Role
• Date Applied
• Contact Person
• Follow-Up Dates
• Status (Color-code: red = rejected, yellow = in progress, green = interview)

Dedicate 30 minutes daily to update your tracker and schedule follow-ups.

How to Stay Motivated and Handle Rejections

Job seekers face 20-30 rejections on average before landing an offer. 

Many big names like J.K Rowling (Harry Potter writer), Anupam Mittal (Shark Tank India), Steve Jobs (Co-founder of Apple), and Colonel Harland Sanders (Founder of KFC) have faced rejections. 

You’re neither the first person nor the last to face this. 

Use these mind-hacking techniques to stay motivated. 

• Grab a coffee after 10 applications or take a walk after an hour of networking.

• Use time-blocking like the Pomodoro Technique.

• 25 minutes of focused work
• 5-minute breaks to recharge

• Reframe with the Redirection > Rejection Mindset.
• Instead of thinking, “I got rejected,” tell yourself:
  “This role wasn’t the right fit, but applying helped me refine my pitch for the next one.”

If rejected, politely ask for the feedback:

“Hi [Hiring Manager], I appreciate your time reviewing my application. Could you share 1-2 areas where I could improve for future roles? Thank you!”

Track common patterns of rejection.

Example: Lacked keyword X in 3 rejections → Update resume to include that keyword.

Why Consistency Is Key in the Online Job Search

Consistency is super important. If you can’t stick with something, it’s hard to get anywhere. 

Sure, it’s easy to get distracted by shiny new things or feel like giving up.

Remember: If someone’s successful, it’s because:

• They kept going, even when they didn’t feel like it.
• They stayed patient and trusted the process.
• They worked smart and hard every day.

So, how can you stay consistent?

Simple. Have a routine and stick to it. It keeps you focused and stops you from wasting time wondering what to do next.

Example of a Weekly Job Search Plan:
Monday: Look for new job postings and apply to several at once.
Wednesday: Connect with people—comment on industry posts and message recruiters.
Friday: Follow up on jobs you applied for and update your job tracker.

FAQs

Conclusion

The way we find and apply for jobs has changed, but not as most expect.

Applying is easier now, but standing out is difficult because thousands of people are applying for the same role. 

The truth is, getting hired isn’t just about being the best person for the job. It’s about knowing how to move past the hiring game.

Technology has sped up the process, but the challenge is the same: How will you prove your worth in such an impersonal system? 

Real change won’t come from quicker applications or shinier resumes. It’ll happen when we shift away from outdated views of work and talent.

To stand out, we must put in the effort to make an impact – not just blend in.