How I Landed Interviews Using LinkedIn

Job hunting online can feel like a part-time job itself. You search “jobs hiring jobs” and get buried in listings that seem either outdated, irrelevant, or a flat-out scam. I’ve been there, more than once.

What made a real difference for me? Learning how to use LinkedIn properly—and avoiding the trap of sending out 50 applications with zero response.

Here’s what worked for me, step by step.

Don’t Just Search—Strategize

I used to type “jobs hiring jobs” into Google or any big job board and apply to anything that looked halfway decent. But that wasn’t helping me move forward. It was just noise.

What actually helped? Getting specific. Instead of using vague terms, I started focusing on roles I could picture myself in. I asked:

• What kind of company would I enjoy working for?
• Do I want remote, hybrid, or fully in-office?
• Which industries match my background?

Once I figured that out, the search became a lot more focused—and less frustrating.

LinkedIn job vacancy

How LinkedIn Became My Favorite Tool (After I Stopped Using It Like Facebook)

I used to treat LinkedIn like a digital résumé that I forgot I even had. But once I realized how much hiring actually happens there, I gave it a proper upgrade.

Here’s what I changed:

• Updated my headline to say exactly what I do and what I’m looking for
• Wrote a short, clear summary about my skills and goals
• Turned on “Open to Work” (but made it visible only to recruiters)
• Followed companies I liked and turned on job alerts

And guess what? I started seeing better opportunities—and more relevant ones too. Every time I saw a LinkedIn job vacancy that fit, I applied directly from the post. No rabbit holes or dead ends.

Applying Smarter, Not Harder

One big mistake I made early on was applying for everything. The truth? Not every “job that’s hiring” is the right fit. I learned to:

• Read job descriptions carefully
• Customize my resume slightly for each role
• Only apply to jobs I was at least 70% qualified for

Suddenly, my hit rate improved. I wasn’t just sending résumés into the void—I was getting callbacks.

A Little Networking Goes a Long Way

This part used to make me cringe, but it matters: reaching out.

When I saw a LinkedIn job vacancy I liked, I would sometimes message someone who worked at the company. Not to ask for a job—but to ask about their experience. You’d be surprised how many people are happy to give advice or point you in the right direction.

That human connection? It works.

My Two Cents if You’re Still Searching

If you’re stuck scrolling through listings with titles like “jobs hiring jobs,” I get it. But here’s what I’d suggest:

• Clean up your LinkedIn profile (yes, it matters)
• Be specific in what you search for and apply to
• Don’t be afraid to message someone—just be polite and real
• And above all, don’t take silence personally. It’s a numbers game, but the right role is out there.