by Is it better to apply with LinkedIn or resume? This is a question many job seekers have with as they navigate the evolving landscape of hiring.
While both tools provide essential insights into your professional background, each comes with its own set of advantages depending on the situation.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between applying with LinkedIn profile vs traditional resumes, helping you decide which approach might give you the best chance of success.
Should I use a traditional resume?
A resume is a formal document that outlines a your professional experience, skills, education, and achievements.
It is typically one to two pages long and is used to apply through company websites, job boards, or email. Most hiring managers and recruiters expect it as part of the job application process.
According to a study by The Ladders, recruiters spend an average of 6 to 7 seconds scanning a resume before deciding if a candidate is a good fit. This means a well-structured, concise, and tailored application is crucial for making a strong first impression.
Here are some examples of a well-written resume:
Emma Collins
Chicago, IL
emma.collins@email.com | (312) 555-7890 | LinkedIn: /in/emmacollinsProfessional Summary
Detail-oriented marketing professional with seven years of experience in digital strategy, brand management, and content development. Proven ability to drive engagement, increase customer acquisition, and optimize marketing spend through data-driven campaigns. Skilled in cross-functional collaboration, project management, and customer insights analysis to create effective marketing strategies.
Experience
Digital Marketing Manager
Harbor & Co. | Chicago, IL | January 2021 – Present
- Develop and execute multi-channel marketing campaigns across social media, email, and paid advertising, increasing website traffic by 35% in one year.
- Lead a team of five marketers to enhance brand positioning and messaging, resulting in a 20% boost in social media engagement and audience retention.
- Manage a $500K annual advertising budget, strategically optimizing spend to improve conversion rates by 15% while reducing cost-per-click by 10%.
- Spearhead a rebranding initiative in collaboration with designers and content creators, leading to a 12% growth in quarterly sales.
Marketing Coordinator
BrightEdge Solutions | Chicago, IL | June 2018 – December 2020
- Assisted in developing and executing content marketing strategies, contributing to a 25% increase in qualified leads and improved customer engagement.
- Conducted in-depth market research and competitor analysis to refine targeted advertising campaigns, leading to a 10% increase in ROI.
- Managed email marketing efforts, implementing A/B testing and segmentation strategies that boosted open rates by 18% and improved click-through rates.
- Created detailed monthly performance reports analyzing campaign effectiveness, customer behavior, and key KPIs, offering strategic recommendations for improvement.
Marketing Assistant
Willow & Hart Consulting | Chicago, IL | August 2016 – May 2018
- Supported the development and execution of marketing campaigns for small and mid-sized businesses, increasing brand visibility by 15% across digital platforms.
- Assisted in managing social media accounts, growing audience engagement through strategic content planning and community interaction.
- Conducted keyword research and SEO optimization, improving organic search rankings and increasing website traffic by 12% in the first year.
- Organized client presentations and marketing reports, helping leadership teams make data-driven decisions and refine overall marketing strategies.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing | May 2018
DePaul University | Chicago, IL
Skills
- Digital Marketing Strategy & Campaign Management
- SEO & SEM Optimization for Enhanced Online Visibility
- Social Media Advertising & Brand Growth
- Data Analytics, KPI Tracking & Performance Reporting
- Content Development & Audience Engagement
- Google Ads, Meta Ads & PPC Campaigns
- CRM & Email Marketing (HubSpot, Mailchimp)
Certifications
- Google Analytics Certified (2022)
- HubSpot Content Marketing Certification (2021)
Additional Information
- Fluent in English and Spanish
- Volunteer Marketing Consultant for Chicago Youth Entrepreneurship Program
- Advantages of resume
Customization for each role
Resumes can be tailored to fit a specific job description, ensuring that only the most relevant skills and experiences are highlighted.
Example: If you’re applying for a marketing job, you can add your social media and campaign management experience, while for a sales position, you might focus more on your revenue-generating achievements.
Industry standard
Most hiring managers expect this document as part of the application process, making it a universally accepted tool.
In industries like finance, law, and healthcare, resumes are a strict requirement and are often reviewed before even considering a candidate’s LinkedIn profile.
Concise and professional
A well-structured application presents key information in a clear, easy-to-read way. This allowing recruiters to assess your suitability quickly.
ATS compatibility
Many large companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. A properly formatted document with relevant keywords increases the chances of passing initial screenings.
Research by Jobscan suggests that over 98% of Fortune 500 companies use ATS software to filter applications.
- Resume disadvantages
Limited space for personality
A traditional resume can not present a personal brand, recommendations, or interactive elements like a portfolio that could showcase your brand.
Requires frequent updates
Every time a candidate applies for a new role, they may need to adjust their application to align with the specific requirements.
Plus, if you change jobs or gain new skills, you have to manually update your document every time, whereas LinkedIn can do it in real time.
Static and one-dimensional
Resumes provide a snapshot of experience but do not reflect ongoing career developments.
Example: If you’ve worked on a big project or won an award, you may not have space to fully explain it, while LinkedIn allows for longer descriptions and media attachments.
No networking or endorsements
Paper documents do not display professional connections, endorsements, or testimonials from colleagues and employers.
LinkedIn reports that profiles with at least five skills endorsed receive 17 times more profile views from recruiters.
Should I apply with LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is a professional networking platform where users create profiles showcasing their work experience, skills, and accomplishments.
- LinkedIn advantages
Easy to update and share
The service allows users to edit their profiles anytime, making it easier to reflect changes without constantly revising a document.
Example: If you complete a new certification or gain a promotion, you can instantly update your LinkedIn, ensuring recruiters always see the most current version of your career.
Dynamic overview
The platform allows users to add multimedia, such as articles, videos, or presentations, making the profile more engaging.
Passive job searching
Even if you're not actively looking for a new position, recruiters can find your profile and reach out with opportunities that match your skills.
- Disadvantages of LinkedIn
Not as detailed
While LinkedIn provides a broad overview of your professional history, it doesn’t always allow for structured, job-specific formatting.
Not all employers prioritize LinkedIn
Some industries, such as government or manufacturing, rely more on traditional application methods and may not use LinkedIn for hiring.
A study found that only 40% of recruiters use LinkedIn as their primary hiring tool.
Privacy Concerns
Unlike a resume that is shared privately, a LinkedIn page is public unless privacy settings are adjusted. This may expose career updates to unwanted viewers.
Example: Updating your profile while still employed could alert your current boss that you’re job hunting.
- Is applying through LinkedIn effective?
- According to LinkedIn, over 950 million professionals use the platform, and over 75% of recruiters rely on it to find and evaluate candidates. This makes it a valuable tool for job seekers looking to increase their visibility in the market.
Should I apply with LinkedIn or resume?
| Factor | LinkedIn Profile | Resume |
|---|---|---|
| Detail Level | More general—highlights overall experience. | Tailored with specific keywords and details. |
| Formatting | Standardized layout—less design control. | Full control over design. |
| First Impression | Shows online presence and endorsements. | Highlights qualifications in a structured way. |
| Ease of Use | Quick submission with a few clicks. | Requires formatting and customization effort. |
| Industry Preference | Preferred for networking-based hiring, especially in tech and marketing. | Required for most positions, especially in traditional spheres. |
| Visibility | Recruiters can find and contact you without applying. | Only seen by employers when you send the document. |
- Is it better to apply with LinkedIn or resume?
- Choose LinkedIn when using platforms that allow "Easy Apply", for networking, or when trying to attract recruiter attention.
- Opt for a resume for formal applications, companies requiring ATS screening, or when customization is important.
If possible, utilize both (LinkedIn for networking and resume for qualifications) is ideal. Keep your profile updated for visibility while tailoring your traditional document for each position.
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Conclusion
Ultimately, whether you apply with LinkedIn or a resume depends on the specific job and the company's hiring practices.
For certain industries and positions, a well-crafted document might be the best choice, while others may prefer the convenience and visibility LinkedIn offers.
Consider tailoring your approach based on the role you're applying for and the expectations of the hiring manager to maximize your chances of landing your dream job.
