If you have received few or no applications, low response rates, or no candidates for a job posting on Handshake, use the steps below to increase applicant interest.
1. Complete your brand page and job posting details
Fill in every available field on your brand page and job postings. Students are more likely to apply to a detailed job from a company with a complete brand page.
For your brand page:
- Add your company mission, values, and culture so students can evaluate fit before applying
- Include employee testimonials, videos, and behind-the-scenes content, since students research employer reputation before applying
- Post relatable content such as day-in-the-life stories, career tips, and application advice
- Respond to student comments and messages to build engagement and make your brand more approachable
For your job descriptions:
- Use a job title that matches how students actually search for the role, and keep it consistent everywhere you post it
- List required skills rather than years of experience, since most entry-level candidates have limited work history
- State the salary range, benefits, work schedule, and work location directly in the posting
- Outline the application steps and estimated timeline so candidates know what to expect
- Use inclusive language and avoid gendered terms, for example "engineer" instead of "hacker"
Related resources:
- Customizing your Brand Page
- How to build an employer brand early talent loves
- 5 tips to improve your job description to attract early talent
2. Post your job to additional schools
Widen your talent pool by posting your job to more schools on Handshake. Review school recommendations to identify schools with student profiles that match your role.
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3. Search for and message qualified students directly
Rather than waiting for candidates to apply, search Handshake for students who match your job qualifications and message them directly. Use Talent Lists to save and organize candidates you want to reach. Personalize your outreach and include a clear call to action to increase reply rates.
Related resources:
4. Contact the Career Services Center at each school
If applicant numbers remain low after completing the steps above, contact the Career Services Center at each school where you posted the job. Career Services staff can share insight into low applicant volume or suggest ways to attract more candidates.
Related resources: