In this section, you’ll learn how job board applications work—and why it matters. Understanding the two primary ways applicants can apply will help you automate more of your recruiting process and avoid losing potential candidates along the way.
There are two key methods for how people apply on job boards:
Apply on the Job Board Itself #
This is the default option for most job boards when you first create an account or post a job. For example, on Indeed, it’s called “Apply on Indeed.”
With this method, applicants submit their information directly through the job board. Their applications are stored in the job board’s dashboard, and you’ll typically receive an email notification when someone applies.
Why this matters:
- You don’t get their information on your website.
- They won’t be added to your automated drip campaigns.
- You have no visibility into where they are in the licensing or onboarding process.
- And most importantly, they may not realize they still need to visit your site and fill out your actual recruiting form unless you explicitly tell them.
While this method is convenient, it puts the burden on you to follow up and redirect the applicant to the correct page on your website.
Apply Using a Custom URL (Recommended) #
This method allows you to route applicants directly to your recruiting website when they click “Apply.” Instead of applying through the job board’s built-in form, they’re taken to a specific page on your site where they can submit their information.
This setting is not found in the job description; it’s part of the application setup when creating the job post.
Important details:
- On Indeed, you’ll need to work with an Indeed rep to enable this feature, called “Apply URL.” Once it’s turned on, you can edit your job post and insert the URL you want applicants to land on.
- On LinkedIn, this option usually becomes available after a short waiting period (typically 7 days or so). Once active, you can update your post to include your Apply URL.
Why this matters:
- Applicants are taken directly to your site.
- Their contact info goes straight into your platform and the email automation system.
- They’re automatically enrolled in any follow-up sequences or drip campaigns based how they answer questions in their “application” form.
- It saves you time and increases conversion by removing unnecessary steps.
A Critical Note on Where to Send Them #
When using a custom Apply URL, make sure to send applicants to the right page—ideally your Join, Careers, or Apply page—not the homepage.
This is where visitors can self-select the path that fits them and submit their information without additional clicks. Landing them directly on this form-based page significantly increases your chances of converting them into leads.
👉 Where to Land Ad Traffic
👉 Sample Job Description
👉 Running Ads on Indeed
👉 Running Ads on LinkedIn
