13 Ways to Make Your Job Applications More Mobile Friendly
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, where smartphones have become an extension of our lives, ensuring that your job application process is mobile friendly is no longer a choice – it’s a strategic imperative. As jobseekers increasingly rely on their mobile devices to search and apply for opportunities on the go, the accessibility and usability of your application process will directly influence your ability to attract top talent.
In this article, we delve into 13 ways to make your job applications more mobile friendly, helping you to engage potential candidates in the spaces they inhabit most frequently.
Responsive Design
Ensure that your job application platform has a responsive design that adapts seamlessly to various screen sizes and orientations. This guarantees that candidates using smartphones or tablets can easily access and navigate your application portal.
Simplified Navigation
Streamline the application process by simplifying navigation. Use clear headings, concise instructions, and intuitive design elements that guide candidates through the application steps without confusion. Don’t make candidates have to scroll endlessly to find the ‘Apply Now’ button and keep the most important information along with instructions to apply towards the top of the page.
Mobile-Optimised Content
Tailor your content for mobile viewing. Use concise, impactful language to convey information effectively, and prioritise key details like job titles, responsibilities, and qualifications. Avoid long paragraphs and opt for bullet points and subheadings to enhance readability.
When sending confirmation emails or notifications to candidates, make sure the content is mobile-optimised. This includes concise subject lines, clear instructions, and well-formatted emails that are easy to read on mobile devices.
Shortened Forms
Lengthy application forms can be off-putting on mobile devices. Collect only essential information at the initial stage and consider offering an option to upload a resume or link to a LinkedIn profile to expedite the process.
One-Click Application
Implement a ‘Apply with LinkedIn’ or ‘Apply with Indeed’ button to enable candidates to apply using their existing profiles. This reduces the time and effort required to manually enter information. To ensure the applications you receive are still relevant and from qualified candidates, include either filtering questions or compulsory questions that candidates must complete in order to submit.
Auto-Save Functionality
Mobile users may experience interruptions, such as calls or messages. Incorporate an auto-save feature that prevents candidates from losing their progress if they need to leave the application temporarily. If they do need to exit the application, email them a link to allow them to carry on from where they left off as soon as possible.
Progress Indicators
Implement a visual progress indicator during the application process. This lets candidates know how far along they are and how much more is left, providing a sense of accomplishment and reducing the feeling of a time-consuming process.
Instant Messaging for Queries
Offer a real-time chat or messaging option where candidates can ask questions about the application process. This provides quick responses to concerns and reinforces a sense of engagement with the organisation.
Optimised Visuals
Visual elements such as images and videos should be optimised for mobile viewing. Large files can slow down loading times and deter candidates. Use compressed images and consider offering text alternatives for videos.
Integration with Cloud Services
Provide the option for candidates to upload documents directly from cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox. This avoids the need to download files to their devices before uploading.
Utilise Social Media
An increasing number of jobseekers are using social media to apply for jobs, and not just by clicking ‘Quick Apply’ on LinkedIn. Jobseekers are creating video CVs on platforms such as TikTok and using platforms like Twitter to ask questions directly to careers teams. Being present on social media will help potential candidates communicate with you on the go, providing another channel for you to engage this talent.
Testing Across Devices
Don’t assume that your mobile-friendly adjustments work perfectly on all devices. Test your application process across various smartphones and tablets to identify and rectify any usability issues.
Feedback and Improvement
Encourage candidates to provide feedback on the mobile application process. Their insights can help you identify areas for improvement and refine the mobile experience over time.
Create a Seamless Experience…
As the life science industry continues to evolve, so too must its recruitment processes. The mobile-friendliness of job applications is no longer a mere convenience; it’s a necessity for attracting and engaging top-tier talent. By embracing responsive design, simplifying navigation, and optimising content and visuals, you can create a seamless and user-friendly application process that aligns with the expectations of today’s mobile-centric job seekers.
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