Set a realistic target
Define three things before you start applying:
- Role type — the specific title(s) you're targeting, not "any job in tech."
- Company size and stage — startups feel very different from enterprises.
- Logistics — remote, hybrid, or on-site; geography; compensation range.
A narrow target makes every resume, cover letter, and interview answer easier. If your target is broad, you're competing against everyone.
Build a tracking system
You'll apply to more roles than you can remember. Track every application with at least:
- Company and role title.
- Date applied.
- Application portal (their site, LinkedIn, referral).
- Contact person (recruiter, hiring manager) if known.
- Status — applied, screening, interview, offer, rejected.
- Notes — anything you learned from a call, their timeline, follow-up dates.
A simple spreadsheet works. So does a note in your phone. What matters is that you can check it.
Where to find roles
- Company career pages — direct applications often have the highest response rates.
- LinkedIn — the largest pool, but also the noisiest.
- Industry-specific boards — Otta, Wellfound, Remote OK, Hacker News Who's Hiring.
- Referrals — the highest-conversion channel. Ask your network before you apply.
- Recruiters — worth it once you know what you want. Skip them if you're still exploring.
The application loop
Each application is a small project. Follow the same loop every time:
- Read the job description carefully. Highlight the top five requirements.
- Adjust your resume — usually just the summary and skills section.
- Write a short, tailored cover letter if the posting asks for one.
- Apply through the best channel (referral > company site > job board).
- Log the application in your tracker.
Following up
If you applied directly to a company and heard nothing for a week, a short follow-up to the recruiter is fine. One follow-up. Not four. If you were referred, ask your contact to nudge the hiring manager.
Managing rejection
Rejection is the default outcome of a job search. Most applications get no response at all. Treat that as data, not failure. If you're not hearing back after 20+ tailored applications, something is off:
- Target too broad? Narrow it.
- Resume not passing ATS? Review formatting and keywords.
- Applying to roles above your experience? Adjust down one level.
- No referrals? Spend a week building them before applying more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many applications should I send per week?
Quality beats quantity. Ten tailored applications per week beats fifty generic ones. If you're applying to more than twenty per week, they're probably not tailored.
Is it OK to apply to the same company twice?
Yes, for different roles. Not for the same role within a few weeks. If you got rejected once, wait at least a few months or reach out directly to explain what's changed.
Should I use LinkedIn Easy Apply?
Only as a backup. Easy Apply applications are low-effort and often get ignored. Apply through the company site whenever possible.
How do I ask for a referral?
Directly and specifically. "I'm applying to [Company] for [Role] and was wondering if you'd be comfortable referring me. Here's my resume and the posting. No pressure either way."
How long should a job search take?
For mid-level roles in healthy markets, six to twelve weeks is typical. Senior roles, career changes, and difficult markets take longer. Plan for three months and treat anything faster as a bonus.