At Apex Resource Solutions we recognise that applying for jobs can be a time consuming process; what with personalising your application, re-proof reading it and then uploading the file to the application, the time to send each application can take 30-45 minutes.

Fortunately, LinkedIn have developed a tool which helps simplify the process. The new "Apply with LinkedIn" feature allows you to apply for a job (on sites using the technology) using your LinkedIn profile rather than submitting an MS Word document.

There are numerous advantages with using this integrated technology aside from the time savings. Consider:

Introduce the employer to your online profile

Whether you like it or not, chances are the recruiter you are applying to will be looking at your online profile - LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and other platforms. Why not get in first and direct them to your online profile in the form of LinkedIn, and what better way to do it than apply with your LinkedIn resume.

In applying with your LinkedIn profile your future employer will see what others have said in their recommendations about you, they will get a good overview of what you have done in other roles and they can explore your network to see how well connected you are.

Edit your Profile in real time

As with Resume writing, you will want to personalise your application. The "Apply with LinkedIn" feature allows you to do the same in real time before you submit your application.

You can see people in your network who work for the prospective employer

In applying for a job it is always nice to have references who will speak for you. With the "Apply with LinkedIn" feature, you can harness the power of social media and technology. The app allows you to see people in your network who are working for the employer or connected to them and allows you to message them asking them to refer you to the Employer.

There are no limits to the length of your profile on LinkedIn

When applying for a job and submitting your Resume, you will have undoubtedly been told to keep it succinct and informative. This means your CV is limited in terms of the details you can include in your application. Conversely, your LinkedIn profile can be as detailed and long as you like, allowing you to fully explain your skill set, detail projects you have managed or been involved with and list out accomplishments in finite detail. This gives the Employer a much wider scope for understanding your previous roles and what you can do for them in a new role.

Whilst the LinkedIn application process may not replace the existing forms of job application, it is definitely going to be a pivotal component in the job selection and candidate acquisition process moving forward. Choosing not to be part of this evolution may just be enough to weigh things in someone else's favour, so why take the risk?