Research conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Indeed in 2014, found that 78% of US jobseekers said they would use their mobile devices to apply for jobs if the process was simplified. We have to admit it seems recruiters have taken notice because if you’ve been searching for a job via the likes of a tablet or smartphone in recent months, you may have noticed a new phrase has popped up on many of the recruitment sites and career pages – ‘apply for this job from your mobile device’.

Given the fact that the average British consumer now owns more than five mobile devices and, according to figures by Ofcom, we now spend more time locked in communication than we do sleeping, it stands to reason that every industry should aspire to make their services more accessible for a mobile audience.

Mobile job applications certainly present a window of opportunity for recruiters. The savviest of employers are picking up on the trend and implementing several strategies for optimising recruitment processes for the growing number of mobile applicants.

Optimise career pages

Similar to how there is an increasing demand for companies to optimise their websites for mobile devices, career pages also need to be mobile-friendly. Ensure job pages are responsive and will scale with the dimensions of the likes of smartphones and tablets. This will ensure candidates will be able to attach their CV via a mobile device and make their application from virtually anywhere in the world.

Making the job advertisement text snappier and more concise

Unlike desktop users who tend to be more willing to spend a greater amount of time finding suitable jobs, mobile users want to source positions more quickly. Consequently a job opening optimised for mobile devices should be concisely-written, straight to the point and void of any unnecessary ‘fluff’.

Use plenty of short paragraphs, sub-headings and call to actions to encourage mobile applicants to hit the ‘apply’ button when on the move.

Consider linking the job applications to LinkedIn

With the fast-paced world of the digital age, we all want efficiency to be at the core of everything we do online, including applying for jobs. Mobile recruitment enables candidates to make valuable job applications whilst on the go and we must admit, the faster the better.

Consequently, employers should consider the quickest route to enabling candidates to apply for a position. Applying for a job using a LinkedIn profile can often be easier and more efficient than applying with a conventional CV and cover letter, after all who wants to be faced with the job of writing a cover letter using a touchscreen?

To optimise the whole job application process from portable devices, recruiters may want to consider making the ‘apply with LinkedIn’ option a key feature.

For all your recruitment needs in the North West and beyond, contact Adria Solutions specialists in IT and sales recruitment.