How to Land First-Round Interviews on LinkedIn, Without Blindly Applying

At C Graham Consulting, we often speak with highly qualified professionals who are frustrated with the traditional job application process. You apply for roles online, tailor your CV, click submit and then... nothing. No feedback, no follow-up. Just radio silence.

The truth is that the job market has changed. And if you’re relying solely on applying through job boards or ATS systems, you may be missing better, faster opportunities.

Below is a practical and underused LinkedIn strategy.

Here’s How It Works:

1. Use This LinkedIn Search Formula:

   
   

   In the LinkedIn search bar, type:

   
   

   "[Job Title]" AND "hiring"

   
   

   (Be sure to include the quotes and the word AND in all caps.)

2. Filter for Relevance:

   • Click on the “Posts” tab (not “Jobs”)

   • Filter by Past 24 hours

   • Sort by Latest

This will show you recent posts from hiring managers and recruiters talking about open roles.

3. Engage the Right Way:

   
   

   When you find a relevant post, leave a short, thoughtful comment e.g.,

   
   

   “Thanks for sharing this. I’d love to connect and hear more—would it be alright if I messaged you?”

4. Start a Conversation (Don’t Apply Yet):

   
   

   Once they respond or accept your connection request, follow up via DM. Keep it brief introduce yourself, express interest, and share why you might be a fit.

5. Only Send Your CV if Asked:

   
   

   Let the conversation guide next steps. You're building a human connection, not cold pitching.

Why This Works

• You're bypassing overloaded ATS systems

• You’re engaging directly with real decision-makers

• You stand out by being proactive, not passive

It takes some consistency checking posts daily and filtering out irrelevant content—but the results speak for themselves. This is especially powerful for mid to senior-level professionals who may not see traction from standard applications.

Remember to try to target companies based on the leadership team or direct reporting line and the values or experience they have that may be more in line with yours.

Looking for More Support?

At C Graham Consulting, we help executives and experienced professionals rethink their search strategy, build direct pipelines to decision-makers, and position themselves for the opportunities that truly align with their goals.

If you’re actively exploring your next move or just want to be more strategic about your outreach, we’d be happy to help.

Get in touch with us at https://www.cgrahamconsulting.com/

#JobSearchTips #ExecutiveSearch #CareerAdvice #LinkedInTips #HiringInsights#CareerStrategy #LeadershipCareers #HiddenJobMarket #CLevelCareers#CGrahamConsulting #ATSBypass #JobHunting #NetworkingTips#ProfessionalGrowth #CareerDevelopment