LinkedIn could standardize job applications with new tool

LinkedIn is poised to debut a new plug-in allowing job seekers to apply for available positions directly on an employer’s website, reports Gigaom.

With the “Apply With LinkedIn” plug-in, the company is attempting to standardize the job application process by using a job seeker’s LinkedIn profile as a resume.

Currently, most companies handle job applications by using a third-party service, hiring a recruitment agency, setting up their own official application or a combination of all of those options. LinkedIn’s application process could quickly end up as the most effective, since it has a professional social network to assist the recruiting.

LinkedIn is reported to be working with several companies to offer the plug-in, which should be available at the end of the month.

When it does go live, job seekers should see a button next to job listings on the company’s official employment webpage. Upon clicking, applicants will have the option to edit their LinkedIn profile, alter contact information and then be prompted to answer additional questions. Other job listings and personal contacts affiliated with that particular company will be displayed after the application has been submitted.

Also, employers will have the option to alter the application by adding predetermined questions (relocation, salary requirements, legal citizen, etc.) and/or customized questions. Completed applications can be sent to an email address, URL or JavaScript callback.

Clearly, LinkedIn sees facilitating the job recruitment effort as an area that has major potential to generate revenue. After making headlines with its recent IPO, the company is under pressure to begin showing steady growth, which it could easily do by becoming the standard for employee recruitment.