Recruiting pro of 30 years: 'If I was looking for a job in 2026 I would honestly stop applying online.' What she recommends instead

January 22, 2026

TL;DR

Online job searching is currently very difficult and offers a degrading experience for applicants.
Employers are hiring less, and online job postings receive hundreds of applicants quickly due to AI and auto-apply options.
The recommended strategy for 2026 is to stop applying online and instead focus on getting recruited.
To get recruited, job seekers should boost their online presence and make strategic connections on platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor.
Engaging thoughtfully with content from target companies and recruiters on social media can increase visibility.
Creating original posts on LinkedIn that discuss work, industry trends, and skill sets can lead to networking opportunities.
A 'documentation streak' strategy involves daily engagement with target companies' posts and creating personal content, which has led to unadvertised job offers.
Effective content formats for LinkedIn include industry observations, hot takes, then vs. now comparisons, listicles, and storytelling.

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